03 August 2001
Another 100 street wardens are to be appointed in inner cities, in addition to the 85 created in suburban areas last year, to crack down on litter and graffiti in an effort to boost civic pride.
Transport, Local Government and the Regions Secretary Stephen Byers said: 'People remember characters like park keepers and caretakers who they came to trust. By introducing street wardens, we can tackle together the problems that are most irritating in neighbourhoods – dog fouling, graffiti-covered buildings, fear of crime and loutish behaviour.'
The Police Federation last year raised concerns that neighbourhood wardens cold become a rival police force.
The Local Government Association welcomed the scheme. A spokeswoman said: 'We are for street wardens – as part of the tools to improve neighbourhoods they have their place.' She said the plans meant local residents decided what their wardens' focus should be.
PFaug2001
