Environment

The Council feels it is a key priority to maintain the cleanliness of the streets and improve open spaces; this has been reflected in public satisfaction levels. Satisfaction with cleanliness increased from 39% in 2000 to 68% in 2003 and satisfaction with parks and open spaces increased from 56% in 2000 to 65% in 2003.

Another important area for the environment is recycling of waste. Since 2001/2 we have been recycling more waste through the introduction of the 'blue box' household recycling scheme. In 2004/05 the amount of household waste now recycled has increased by 3% to 16% and over 12,000 households are now composting.