Success at the Seaside
20 March 2009
A two-day event in Brighton showcasing the best environmental schemes from across the country has been hailed a major success.
The Cleaner Safer Greener Network Conference, staged by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, saw local authorities and other land managers focus on ways of making England's neighbourhoods better places to live.
Held at the Hilton Brighton Metropole hotel, the event featured broadcaster Fiona Bruce hosting an awards ceremony to honour a range of innovative schemes tackling problems such as litter, graffiti and fly-tipping.
Over the two days delegates also listened to expert speakers and took part in workshops offering ideas and guidance to help improve environmental quality.
For Keep Britain Tidy it was a return to familiar ground as the organisation was based in Brighton until the 1980s.
Chief executive Phil Barton said: "We are delighted to have been here for the conference which has been a huge success.
"All around England people are striving to create better communities and this event has allowed us to pool knowledge and expertise.
"In addition, we have also had the opportunity to see at first hand some excellent environmental projects here in Brighton."
WINNERS:
Cleaner Safer Greener Champion and Overall CSG Winner of the Year
Kerrier District Council - Owen Braines
Runners Up: Newcastle City Council - Environmental Crime Team,
Islington Council - Street Environment Wardens
Engaging Communities
Winner: Bournemouth Borough Council - Environmental Small Grants Scheme
Runners Up: North West Leicestershire District Council - Bozzy Park Crew
Telford & Wrekin Council - Friends of Apley Woods
Efficiencies through Partnership
Winner: North West Leicestershire District Council - FnM (Friday night Market)
Runner Up: Wirral Council - Neighbourhood Environment Team
Preventative Approaches
Winner: District of Easington Council - Reducing Secondary Arson and Criminal Damage
Runner Up: Bournemouth Borough Council - Keep our Bournemouth Clean
Innovation
Winner: Bromford Group - Cross Street South Eco Project
Runner Up: Leicester City Council - Leicestershire Forum
Community Space Challenge
Overall Winner: Birmingham, St George's in the Community
Regional Winners: Greenwich, Youth Inclusion Volunteer Group
Goole, Community Spaces
South Trafford, GForce