Warrington Borough Council’s environmental crime team has received national recognition at a prestigious local government awards ceremony, after being ‘Highly Commended’ at the MJ Awards in London.
The team received the accolade in the ‘Best Council Services Team’ category – sponsored by APSE – for their ‘UKSPF-Funded Waste Improvement Project.’
The awards, held in London on Friday 19 June, celebrate excellence and innovation across local government in the UK. Warrington’s team stood out among 98 entries nationwide, securing second place for their innovative work in tackling fly-tipping in the borough.
The accolade recognises the team’s new, collaborative model within Warrington’s Central 6 wards. The project brings together environmental crime officers and seconded staff from street services, working as a single, integrated unit to improve response times and outcomes.
Using dedicated, branded vehicles, the team delivers immediate, on-site waste removal while also working closely with private landlords to improve long-term domestic waste management practices.
This joined-up approach has delivered exceptional results, including:
- A 55% reduction in fly-tipping complaints
- A 33% reduction in demand on the contact centre
- A 69% reduction in referrals to street services
- A 100% increase in evidence recovery rates
The success of the project is not only helping to tackle environmental crime more effectively, but also contributing to a cleaner, safer and more vibrant Warrington.
Warrington Borough Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for environmental health, Cllr John Kerr-Brown, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for our environmental crime team. To come second out of 98 entries from across the UK is something to be proud of. It’s clear recognition of the innovation, dedication and teamwork they bring to improving our communities.
“This national recognition highlights our continued commitment to finding effective, innovative solutions to environmental challenges and improving outcomes for residents. We’re grateful for the letters of support for this accolade from the public and community representatives from our litter networks.
“Most of all, I’d like to thank our staff who continue to contribute every day to tackling environmental crime and improving waste management across our borough. Their commitment is making a real difference to the places where our residents live and work.”
