A spring clean for Bankside and other projects

A newsletter detailing current projects will be inside the March issue of 'in SE1' – but here is a brief overview:

Greening

Responding to the request for more greening, Better Bankside has launched a green grants scheme. This involves the installation of attractive planters outside business frontages, to soften the streetscape. They will also provide participating businesses with a grant covering 50% of the installation and upkeep costs. So far, planters have been installed on Stoney Street (next to Monmouth Coffee, Fusebox and Konditor & Cook), Redcross Way and Southwark Street.

Rubbish and Recycling

Better Bankside has launched an innovative scheme to turn Borough Market's fruit and vegetable waste into compost, to be used in local parks and gardens. It has also arranged for several rubbish bins to be installed along the riverfront, to be emptied by Southwark Council.

Lighting

The stunning under-arch lighting scheme on Union Street, by the Cafe Lounge and Union Theatre, is a Better Bankside project. Numerous halogen lights form the digits 401 – which is the arch's unique identity number. It is hoped that further arches can be treated in a similar manner to make the streets safer and more attractive.

Cleansing

The organisation is also midway through a £30,000 pilot cleansing project for the area. The three-week programme includes steam cleansing and the removal of graffiti and gum from bridges, railway arches and isolated passageways. They will be focusing on the river frontage, Borough High Street and the surrounds of Borough Market and Southwark Cathedral.

Upon completion of the pilot cleansing, Better Bankside will be consulting with local businesses regarding potential funding for it to continue on a regular basis. It would also welcome your feedback on the project. If you've spotted any improvements email [email protected]">[email protected] or provide comments in the SE1 forum.

For more information on Better Bankside and to register for regular updates go to www.betterbankside.co.uk