Campaigners have launched a petition urging Coventry City Council to reconsider devastating cuts to the city’s ‘Streetpride’ services. They warn the cuts could lead to an increase in fly-tipping, graffiti, and neglected streets. Residents are being encouraged to make their voices heard by signing the petition and sharing their concerns with local councillors.
The Council’s own officials have admitted that the proposed cuts “could lead to an increase in overall fly-tipping” sparking fears that key services like graffiti removal and emergency cleaning will also be hit. Under the proposals, £700,000 could be slashed from next year’s Streetpride budget, as part of wider measures to plug a financial black hole.
Fly-tipping is a persistent problem across many areas of the city, blighting streets, parks, and communities. Campaigners argue the cuts will send the wrong message, worsen fly-tipping across Coventry’s streets and parks, and tarnish the city’s reputation.
Wyken resident and campaigner Frank Beechey, who launched the petition, said: “These reckless and short-sighted cuts could turn Coventry into a dumping ground. They punish residents by letting litter and fly-tipping pile up, while those responsible for the mess go unchecked. My message is clear: dump these proposals and cut fly-tipping, not the budget.”
The petition has quickly gained momentum and has the backing of Coventry’s Conservative opposition group. They’re calling for stronger action against fly-tipping and a rethink of Labour’s spending priorities to protect essential services.
Shadow Cabinet Member Cllr Tim Sawdon, who will present the petition to the Council, said: “Labour’s broken promises are stacking up, and it’s the people of Coventry who will pay the price. Clean streets aren’t a luxury—they’re a basic necessity for public health, safety, and pride in our city. These cuts will leave residents to deal with mounting waste whilst trashing the city’s reputation - all while the Council looks the other way. Coventry deserves better.”
In addition to cuts to Streetpride, the Council is proposing:
• Increased parking charges at the War Memorial Park.
• Fewer events across the city.
• Cuts to parks and green spaces budgets.
Residents also face an inflation-busting 5% council tax hike, despite promises by Labour to freeze council tax.
The proposals are currently out for public consultation, with final plans expected in February. An alternative budget will be put forward by Cllr Peter Male, Conservative Deputy Leader and Shadow Cabinet Member for Finance.
You can add your name to the petition here: https://tinyurl.com/5n972cnv
