CRIMINALS will be given the chance to make amends for their misdeeds by clearing leaves and painting park benches and fences in Brentwood.
Louise McKinlay, the leader of Brentwood Borough Council, has revealed that the authority is preparing to begin discussions with Essex Probation about bringing in those who have committed minor crimes to work under the Community Payback scheme.
The Tory-run council has previously brought in low-level offenders on an ad-hoc basis to help with one-off projects in the community. Now it is looking at the possibility of using them more frequently.
Cllr McKinlay, who represents Hutton North, said: "I have asked council officers to discuss with the probation service about how we can get Community Payback working for us in the town.
"Painting park fences and other basic maintenance tasks are among the things that have been undertaken in the borough before by Community Payback and we will be looking for more of the same again.
"We act vigorously against anti-social behaviour and other crimes in the borough and so I think it only right that "wrong 'uns can make good" by paying their dues back to the community they live in.
"It is important that the public can see those who have broken the law at work, making amends, and that Brentwood can benefit from their efforts clearing leaves, painting park benches and lots more."