Ipswich unites for ‘The Big Clean’ in September 

This summer businesses in Ipswich backed a manifesto that pledged for cleaner streets and was founded on the principle that caring for our town is a responsibility shared by everyone who lives, works, trades in and visits Ipswich. 

Now Ipswich Central is coming good on that promise with The Big Clean – a coordinated campaign that will target areas that are letting the side down – in response to growing public discussion about the appearance of streets and public spaces around Ipswich.

Ipswich Central is calling on businesses, residents and community organisations to take part in The Big Clean – a coordinated campaign founded on the principle that caring for Ipswich is a responsibility shared by everyone who lives, works, trades in or visits the town. 

The campaign highlights ‘Action not words’ in response to a growing public discussion about the appearance of streets and public spaces around the town, with Ipswich Central offering a community driven solution.

Running from Monday, September 14 until Monday, September 21 will turn concern into positive, visible action across the Waterfront, parks and green spaces, commercial areas, the High Street corridor from Norwich Road to Carr Street, and the Saints, Walks and Lanes. 

Ipswich Borough Council’s waste and street cleaning teams will be involved during The Big Clean, with litter picking and general tidy up all taking place throughout the event. 

As well as this, two local businesses are heavily supporting the Big Clean. Ellisons Solicitors, based in Princes Street are helping to provide the personnel to carry out work throughout the week. Meanwhile Vivo Clean, who currently provide cleaning services at Ipswich Town’s Portman Road, will provide the materials necessary to strengthen pride in the High Street for visitors and residents alike. 

Bethan Williams of Ellisons Solicitors said: “Ellisons is proud to support The Big Clean and to play our part in an initiative that reflects the shared responsibility we all have for the places in which we live and work.

“As a major employer in Ipswich, many of our staff, clients and business contacts spend time in the town every day, and we know how important a clean, welcoming and well-cared-for environment is in creating a positive experience for everyone. 

“The Big Clean is about much more than litter picking; it is about demonstrating pride in Ipswich, strengthening our community, and helping to make the town an even more attractive place to live, work, invest and visit. We are pleased that members of our team, including Partner Bethan Williams, have been involved in supporting the initiative, and we look forward to seeing businesses and residents come together to make a visible difference.”

Lee Walker, Ipswich Central Chief Executive, said: “Ipswich belongs to all of us. The council and its partners provide essential cleaning and maintenance services, but no council can keep a town looking its best through public services alone. Businesses, residents, employees, property owners and visitors all shape the places we share.’

He added: “A major clean-up can deliver an immediate improvement, but this is about more than one day. We want The Big Clean to strengthen year-round pride, improve how recurring problems are reported and encourage every part of the community to protect the town. 

“The Big Clean is not about assigning blame. It is about recognising our community responsibility and giving everyone a practical way to take pride in Ipswich. If we each look after the space around us, report problems promptly and challenge behaviour that harms the town, the collective difference will be significant.”