Local businesses are joining forces with Mansfield District Council next week for a Day of Action led by Mansfield BID to spruce up the town centre.

The autumn blitz will take place on Tuesday, 17th September when more than 170 activities will be carried out, including painting, weeding, cleaning, and tidying, to enhance the appearance and ambience of the town centre.

In addition, the council’s Environmental Health team will be tackling waste, fly-tipping and other environmental issues, and its Licensing team will be checking licensed premises and taxi ranks.

Council community safety officers will be cracking down on anti-social behaviour and the police will be targeting bikes and e-scooters being ridden along West Gate and Market Place.

The Day of Action has been organised by Mansfield BID with the council, and local businesses are being encouraged to join in with tasks that go beyond the council’s day-to-day duties.

Mayor Andy Abrahams said: “We aim to make a tangible difference in the look and feel of our town centre to help make it a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming place for all who visit.

“It’s not just about improving the physical appearance of our town centre; it’s also an opportunity to show solidarity among town centre businesses, working together to create a better environment for everyone. Together, we can make a significant impact to ensure our town centre is a place we can all take pride in.”

Jay Rowlinson, chief executive of Mansfield BID, said: “We are committed to making the town centre the best it can be and we hope lots of businesses will support this effort as a crucial part of this collective force. We understand that not everyone may be able to commit to the full day but even a couple of hours would be immensely valuable.

“The day will also offer a chance to local businesses to engage with local leaders, including the town’s Mayor and other key figures, who will be participating in the event. It will be an excellent opportunity to discuss their thoughts, concerns, and aspirations for the future of the town centre.”

The event will begin at 9am in the Market Place and continue at key locations around the town centre until 4pm. It will be co-ordinated by Mansfield BID, with the council providing staff, equipment, paint, tools and PPE.

The actions will include removing clutter and old signage, jet washing, litter picking, painting street furniture, cleaning bins and signs, clearing rubbish, and weeding.

All participants will be provided with protective clothing and will receive a certificate of participation. There will also be a team photograph at noon to mark the occasion.

Anyone interested in taking part or supporting the effort in other ways should contact Mansfield BID at [email protected] or call 01623 633939.