Free collection of bulky items, a graffitti-busting vehicle and the removal of chewing gum and weeds from streets are among a package of ways Southend could be cleaned up for the year 2000.

The town is to undergo a millennium makeover with the council working with community groups and businesses to smarten up the borough over a four-week period starting in mid March.

Southend Council's cabinet gave the green light to a wide-reaching spring clean which, if all suggested schemes were adopted, would cost around £160,000.

Executive councillor with responsibility for environmental services, Jean Sibley, said: "We really want people in the borough to take pride in their area, and make an effort to join in the campaign to tidy up the town.

"The council will be leading the way, but we cannot do it without the support and action of residents and businesses.

"If everyone makes an effort we could really spruce up the town for summer."

A refuse amnesty at weekends would see the free collection of bulky household waste such as sofas and fridges. Refuse freighters would also be provided for waste cleared by individuals and groups from alleyways and front gardens.

A graffiti-busting machine would be used to clean unsightly markings, and war would be declared on pavement weeds.

A further move is the use of a special machine to remove chewing gum in particular from bus facilities in York Road and Queensway, the High Street and the Queensway subways.

Other ideas include the redecoration of shelters, public toilets, and other council properties, and competitions for schools to encourage pupils to clear up the premises.

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.