UKIP Cllrs in Aveley, Thurrock Peter Smith and Tim Aker are tackling these austere times head on. With fields and verges overgrown, they have enlisted the local probation service to set about cutting and tidying local greenfields. Work began Sunday 9th August, with a supervised team cutting back overgrowth and picking up litter between the Kenningtons Estate and Belhus Park in Aveley, Essex.
Cllr Peter Smith said: "As local government cuts hit our services here in Thurrock we are thinking outside the box. Using labour from the Probation Services to complement the work of the over-stretched Council service means we can save our residents money and still get the job done.
"This new thinking shows UKIP is ready to run local councils and get the very best value for money for the residents we serve.
"We will be looking to roll this operation out across Thurrock, meaning we can effectively combat fly tipping, overgrown parks and pathways and restore pride in our borough.
"We are aiming for an ongoing maintenance agreement being sought with the Probation Service and Young Offenders units, to aid existing council services, save money and support the rehabilitation of offenders in the community."
Cllr Tim Aker MEP said "This is a great initiative that can be rolled out across the country. We don’t just have to give in and accept reduced services; with some new thinking council services can be provided by groups in addition to already over-stretched local authorities. We are turning Thurrock around."
