The Leader of Solihull Council has asked local residents to respect Solihull’s parks and open spaces and take their litter home with them after the borough experienced an increase in littering over recent weekends.

The changes to guidance over park use has resulted in many parks and outdoor spaces throughout the country becoming incredibly popular and well used. While most people visiting parks have behaved responsibly, many people have left behind picnic waste and litter.

Leader of Solihull Council, Cllr Ian Courts, said: “The pictures we have seen in our papers this morning of beaches and beauty spots spoiled by thoughtless visitors have sadly been mirrored by a minority of Solihull residents in our own beautiful parks. I have been really appalled by the number of complaints I have received about litter and dog mess.

“We have increased our litter pick teams and are emptying park bins more frequently, but I really need residents to help by not leaving rubbish behind in the first place. When you picnic with friends and relatives, pack a bag to clear up your mess with (and bags for your dog mess too) and take it all home if the bins are full.
“With so many places still closed, our parks are very much a refuge, places to unwind, take exercise and relax. Leaving rubbish behind is a health issue, causes extra work and ruins it for everyone else. Please respect the social distancing guidelines and respect our beautiful open spaces so that we can all enjoy them.”