Clean-up city looks to Royal Borough

York Council’s leader, Coun James Alexander, travelled to London to see first hand the work that has been undertaken to remove unnecessary signs and street furniture in the borough.

He met with his counterpart in Kensington and Chelsea, Coun Sir Merrick Cockell, who is also the chairman of the Local Government Association.

Coun Alexander said: “Kensington and Chelsea is an excellent example of how a council has made significant achievements in de-cluttering. So it was an inspiration to meet Sir Merrick and see first-hand the work Royal Borough accomplished.”

While York is famed around the world for its heritage, concerns have been expressed about the state of the city centre. The York Civic Trust has spearheaded a campaign to take away clutter and repair unkempt lamp posts and signs. Coun Alexander will use his visit to London to shape the ongoing Re-invigorate York scheme.

Sir Merrick said: “York is a very beautiful and historically significant city so I wish the council well in its efforts to tackle clutter.”