VOLUNTEERS collected dozens of bags of rubbish for the first of the Big Brook Street Clean Ups – a series of sessions to give Brentwood's western-most entrance a much-needed facelift.
Over 20 people cleared 50 bags of fly-tipping, and around 40 bags of rubbish and recycling, including old boots, broken bits of metal and panes of glass.
It was in April that the Gazette announced plans to help give Brook Street a much-needed makeover.
Some of the ideas could later include inviting schools to design a new look and using volunteers to clear up litter and plant new trees long the verges near the Shell garage and Holiday Inn.
The Saturday morning cleanup was organised by South Weald councillor, Ann Coe who announced in April that she would be using part of her ward budget to help fund the day.
She has also instructed planning officers to serve notices on the owner on the cottages next to the petrol station, to force them to tidy them up.
She said: "It was a great success and I'd like to thank all of those who came and took part. We even had residents from Ingrave and Hutton join in.
"The efforts have made a real difference and I'm looking forward to the next event in the autumn, when we'll be planting some flowers to brighten up the verges."
The volunteers were joined by Brentwood MP Eric Pickles, council leader Louise McKinlay and Conservative councillors from across the borough.
Ann added: "This is a key entry point to our Borough and the plans we have over the coming months to brighten it up, will ensure it's an area we can all be proud of."
In addition to the work carried out by the volunteers, Ann is also working with the council's planning department to take action on the state of the cottages next to the petrol station.
Ann said: "We're doing all we can to get the owners to deal with the matters."
Details of the next action day will be coming forward shortly. If you would like to take part call 01277 312500.
