Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council is proposing a £1.85 million programme to tackle broken street signs, graffiti, neglected public spaces and litter across the borough. Called Operation TLC, the plan will be considered by Cabinet on 20 October 2026.

The programme builds on the existing Civic Pride scheme and aims to deliver visible improvements to neighbourhoods. Work will include repairing damaged street signs, repainting railings, cleaning benches, tackling graffiti, maintaining public spaces and improving gateways into the borough.

How the funding breaks down

The £1.85 million comprises £1.6 million of capital investment and £250,000 to support staffing and smaller works. This includes £350,000 of capital funding in 2026/27, followed by £250,000 annually until 2031/32. A further £50,000 a year for five years would support the running of Operation TLC.

Community involvement

Operation TLC is designed around shared responsibility between the Council, residents, businesses and volunteers. A monthly Big Borough Clean Up would be organised and led by borough councillors, giving residents regular opportunities to improve their communities.

Councillors will also be encouraged to dedicate half of their £2,500 Community Fund towards ward improvements, from new bins and refurbished planters to cleaner bus stops and repaired street signs. Local businesses will be encouraged to keep their premises and surrounding areas tidy, dispose of waste responsibly and support community clean-ups.

Tackling fly-tipping and littering

Around 100 fly-tipping incidents are reported across the borough every month, costing approximately £65,000 a year to clear up. The Council will use its enforcement powers against offenders and explore working with the Ministry of Justice's Community Payback scheme to help with litter removal, painting and maintenance.

What happens next

Residents will be encouraged to report problems through the Council's online Report It service, helping identify where action is needed. The Council will also press Staffordshire County Council to tackle weeds and neglected highways under its responsibility.