Town’s landlords face clean-up warning

Landlords with property in one town are being urged to check the external condition of it and avoid a formal enforcement action if it needs cleaning.

Swindon Council is contacting more than 2,000 landlords and private homeowners for its Big Town Centre Clean-Up this summer.

Leaflets are being delivered across the town centre asking owners to inspect their buildings and carry out maintenance where needed.

The work may include removing graffiti and unwanted markings, clearing litter and waste from gardens and external areas, and repairing fences, gates or boundary walls.

Landlords play a part

Councillor Kevin Parry, the cabinet member for recycling and Streetscene, said: “The council is responsible for maintaining the public realm, but we need residents, homeowners and landlords to play their part in The Big Town Centre Clean-Up.

“We’re encouraging property owners to take a fresh look at the condition of their homes and take action where it’s needed, whether that’s removing graffiti, cutting back overgrown vegetation or keeping external areas free from litter and waste.”

He added: “Our first approach is always to work with people to resolve issues voluntarily.

“However, where properties continue to have a detrimental impact on the local environment, the council may consider formal enforcement action where appropriate.”

Keep bin areas tidy

Landlords and owners are also being asked to keep bin storage areas tidy, cut back overgrown vegetation and maintain the general appearance of their property.

The leaflet states: “Where appropriate, the council will consider formal enforcement action if properties continue to have a detrimental impact on the local environment.”

It follows letters sent to several prominent commercial property owners whose buildings were found to show visible signs of neglect.

The issues included broken windows, unsecured openings, graffiti and overgrown vegetation.

During the final two weeks of August, existing council resources will be directed towards environmental work in the town centre.

Street cleaning, jet washing, paving repairs and weed removal are among the jobs planned.