Enveco, Tree Wardens and Community Volunteers Team Up to Care for Trees at Mossom Field

On Wednesday 11 March, volunteers and local teams came together at Mossom Field on Mossom Lane for a morning of environmental improvement work, helping remove old tree stakes and guards that had been left in place for many years.

Around 15 years ago, plastic guards and stakes were installed to protect young trees while they established themselves. However, the company responsible for the original work ceased operating around 2015, meaning many of the guards were never removed. Over time, these have become unfit for purpose and can restrict tree growth.

The focus of the session, which ran from 9.30am until midday, was to remove as many guards as possible, so the trees can continue to grow freely. The plastic guards will be responsibly disposed of, while any chestnut stakes still in good condition will be taken to Stanley Park, where they may be reused during the park’s upcoming Centenary celebrations, for example, as way markers.

The event brought together colleagues from across the Enveco team, from senior leaders to members of the street cleansing and grounds maintenance teams, alongside volunteers from Keep Blackpool Tidy and the volunteer tree wardens. Some of the work had already begun last year with the help of DWP volunteers, but there was still plenty left to do.

Diane Farley, Enveco’s Neighbourhood Officer, who organised the event, added:

“It was great to see such a positive turnout. These kinds of activities make a real difference to the health of our trees and show how much people care about their local environment.”

Norbreck Ward Councillor Julie Sloman said:

“It’s fantastic to see residents, volunteers and council teams working together to care for our green spaces. Small actions like this help ensure our trees continue to thrive for years to come. I really do want to thank everyone involved.”

By the end of the morning, volunteers had removed a large number of guards, helping ensure the trees at Mossom Field can continue to grow strong and healthy.

Take a look at all the images of the day HERE. 

Enveco Hosts Their Second Volunteer Thank You Event to Celebrate Blackpool’s Volunteers

On Thursday, 26th February 2026, Enveco proudly hosted its second Volunteer Thank You Event at the fantastic Blackpool Football Club. The purpose of the day was simple but incredibly important — to say thank you to the individuals who generously give their time to help keep Blackpool tidy.

Enveco’s 250 dedicated employees work across a wide range of services that support the town every day. These include Parks and Grounds Maintenance, Street Cleansing, Domestic and Commercial Waste Collection, Fleet Maintenance for Blackpool Council and Enveco, Pest Control, Building Cleaning, and managing the Household Waste Recycling Centre (the tip), alongside their professional office-based support team.

However, the volunteers celebrated at this event play a vital role alongside these services, contributing their time, energy and pride to help keep our community clean and welcoming.

A Day of Celebration and Recognition

The event began with a presentation from Enveco’s Neighbourhood Officer, Diane Farley, who has worked for the Council for nearly 44 years. Diane is an integral part of the volunteering network, supporting local litter pickers and community groups, and her passion and dedication were clear to everyone in the room, along with the full team who helped make the day such a big success.

Guests were then treated to a special talk from former police officer Mike Barton, now a volunteer at Jubilee Gardens. Mike spoke about the importance of volunteering, not only for the community but for personal health and wellbeing. He shared insights from his time in the police force and reflected on how volunteering continues to give him purpose and connection.

Enveco’s Marketing and Communication officer came on to speak about some of the exciting events planned and an update on the future waste changes.

Celebrating 2,475 Volunteer Hours from 2024/25

A key highlight of the presentation was the recognition of the incredible number of hours contributed by volunteers, just under 2,500 hours during 2024/25 alone. This remarkable commitment demonstrates the strength of community spirit across Blackpool.

The event also marked the exciting introduction of a brand-new Volunteer Pack. The pack includes everything volunteers need to know, including key guidance, dos and don’ts, and details on how to log their hours.

Another important reveal was the launch of the new Keep Blackpool Tidy (KBT) volunteering bags. The bags are now white and feature a KBT sticker to clearly show that the rubbish has been collected by a KBT volunteer. This change helps Enveco teams easily distinguish between volunteer-collected waste and fly-tipping, ensuring bags are collected quickly and efficiently.

Following the event, guests were invited to enjoy a guided tour of Blackpool Football Club, a fantastic opportunity to explore the venue.

Honoured Guests

The event was attended by several special guests, including:

  • Councillor Lynn Williams – Leader of the Council (overall strategic leadership and corporate portfolio oversight).
  • Councillor Jane Hugo – Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Climate Change.
  • Councillor Mark Wilshaw – Cabinet Member for Environment and Community Safety (alongside his role as Board Member at Enveco Ltd).
  • Elaine Smith MBE
  • Blackpool in Bloom judges Betty Bradford, Judi Brown and Tim Riley

They were joined by members of Enveco’s Leadership Team, including Finance Director Paul Whitehead and Policy and Performance Director Paula Ramsay, as well as members of the Enveco team who worked hard to make the day what it was.

Guests also had the opportunity to step into the spotlight, sharing their appreciation and reflections on the importance of volunteering in Blackpool.

Thank You

The event was a true celebration of community spirit. Volunteers are at the heart of ‘Keeping Blackpool Tidy’, and their contribution makes a visible and lasting difference to the town.

Enveco would like to once again say a heartfelt thank you to every volunteer who continues to make Blackpool a cleaner, greener and prouder place to live and visit. Along with a big thank you to the Blackpool Football Club for their outstanding service two years in a row.

Enveco looks forward to continuing its collaboration with volunteers and residents to ‘Keep Blackpool Tidy’, and from our team, we want to say a big THANK YOU for all you do!

Take a look at the pictures from the afternoon by clicking HERE. 

Three Years of Keep Blackpool Tidy

Three Years of Keep Blackpool Tidy, and We’re Just Getting Started

This year marks three years of Keep Blackpool Tidy, and what a journey it’s been.

From community litter picks to neighbourhood champions, residents across Blackpool have helped transform public spaces, and volunteer numbers continue to rise, adding extra sparkle wherever they go.

We’re also getting ready for our second Thank You Event at Blackpool FC, celebrating the people who give back to their town.

But now it’s time for the next chapter.

Our Big Goal: Grow the Pledges

The heart of Keep Blackpool Tidy is the pledge system:

  • Bronze – The pledge to use bins correctly by recycling, and ensuring any dog waste from walking a dog is correctly bagged and placed in bins (Blackpool have over 1,000 street and park litter bins available and can all take dog waste)
  • Silver – The pledge to contribute towards the cleanliness of their street by cleaning/de-weeding outside their property and using the Blackpool council’s reporting form online for any street cleaning issues, such as Fly-tipping, Dog fouling, and graffiti
  • Gold – The pledge to become an active member of the Keep Blackpool Tidy community litter picking group, and/or will look after my alleyway with neighbours to keep it clean and tidy

Our vision? A Keep Blackpool Tidy sticker on lots of wheelie bins in Blackpool.

Each sticker represents a household that cares about their street, their neighbours and their environment.

Whether you’re picking up litter, recycling right or volunteering locally, taking the pledge is your way of saying: this is my town, and I’m proud of it.

Sign up today… 

End-of-Year and Winter Updates

As we approach the end of the year, we want to take a moment to reflect on what has been a busy and rewarding year for Enveco NW and our partners across Blackpool.

Over recent months, our teams have continued to deliver essential day-to-day services while also supporting the introduction of new waste changes across the town.

None of this would be possible without the dedication of our frontline staff, the support of our community partners, and the cooperation of residents and businesses.

To everyone who has worked with us, supported our campaigns, adapted to changes, volunteered their time, or simply disposed of their waste responsibly – thank you. Together, you’ve helped us keep Blackpool tidy, welcoming, and resilient.

Winter Changes

Christmas and New Year Service Updates

Waste collection changes

Collection days will change over Christmas – please check your updated dates.

Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC)

The Household Waste Recycling Centre and Re-use Shop will be closed on:

  • Christmas Eve

  • Christmas Day

  • Boxing Day

  • New Year’s Eve

  • New Year’s Day

Residents are encouraged to check what can and cannot be taken to the site before visiting.

Green Waste Service

The Green Waste Service will follow its usual winter break, running from Monday 24 November and resuming on Friday 16 January 2026.

Other Waste Services

Rover and Bulky Matters collections

  • Last working day: Monday 22 December 2025
  • Service resumes: Monday 5 January 2026

Christmas Tree Collections

As in previous years, Trinity Hospice will be collecting real Christmas trees for a small donation. This popular scheme helps trees be disposed of responsibly while supporting an important local charity.

Winter and Post-Christmas Recycling Tips

The festive season can be busy and, at times, challenging. As routines change, we’re asking residents to remain mindful of how waste is managed to help services run smoothly for everyone.

Here are a few simple reminders to help over winter:

Use the Right Bin

Please make sure waste is placed in the correct bins. Our recycling guidance explains clearly what goes where and helps reduce contamination.

Wrapping Paper and Cards

  • Shiny, foil or glittery wrapping paper cannot be recycled

  • Choose plain paper where possible

  • Dispose of used wrapping paper in your brown sack or brown bin

Excess Packaging

Online shopping often means extra cardboard. Please flatten boxes before recycling to make space for everyone’s waste.

Unwanted Gifts and Items

If you receive items you don’t need, consider donating them to the Re-use Shop or a local charity. Reuse reduces waste and supports the community.

By recycling thoughtfully and reusing where possible, we can all make a positive difference this winter.

A Year of Campaigns, Community Action and Pride

2025 has been a standout year for local environmental action and community pride.

Bag It, Bin It

Now in its third year, the Bag It, Bin It campaign continues to tackle dog fouling.

Keep Blackpool Tidy

Through the Keep Blackpool Tidy programme, residents have:

  • Taken pledges to look after their neighbourhoods

  • Volunteered for litter picks

  • Reported environmental issues across the town

Blackpool Beach Litter Pick Marathon

Our first-ever Beach Litter Pick Marathon, delivered with SEA LIFE Centre Blackpool, saw over 170 volunteers clean multiple coastal zones in one morning – a fantastic example of partnership working in action.

Blackpool in Bloom

Now in its third year with Enveco NW, Blackpool in Bloom continues to grow. Entries increased from 27 in its first year to a record 58 entries in 2025, celebrating the residents and businesses who bring colour and care to our town.

Simpler Recycling

Alongside Blackpool Council, we’ve also been working hard to deliver the new Simpler Recycling service changes, including new recycling bin hubs, new bin rollout and improved collection systems, helping residents recycle more easily and consistently.

Celebrating Success

Green Flag Awards

We’re proud to share that seven Blackpool parks have achieved Green Flag Award status – the national standard for high-quality green spaces. This achievement reflects the combined efforts of Enveco NW Environmental Services, Blackpool Council, and dedicated volunteer groups.

North West in Bloom

For the third year running, Enveco NW Environmental Services has secured Silver Gilt in the Small City category at the North West in Bloom Awards – a true testament to the commitment of our teams, partners, and communities.

Thank You and Festive Wishes

As the year draws to a close, we want to say a heartfelt thank you to our colleagues, partners, volunteers, residents, and businesses. Your support, patience, and pride in Blackpool make everything we do possible.

We look forward to continuing this work together in the new year.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year,
The Enveco NW Team

Enveco NW Hosts Their First-Ever Thank You Event to Celebrate Blackpool’s Volunteers

On Wednesday, 26 February 2025, Enveco NW hosted their first “Thank You” event at the Blackpool Football Club, celebrating the selfless volunteers who dedicate their time to ‘Keeping Blackpool Tidy’. Over 140 attendees gathered for an afternoon of recognition and appreciation.

Enveco’s 250 dedicated employees work across a range of services. These include Parks and Grounds Maintenance, Street Cleansing, Domestic and Commercial Waste Collection, Blackpool Council and Enveco’s Fleet Maintenance, Pest Control, Building Cleaning, and the management of the Household Waste Recycling Centre (tip). The volunteers who were celebrated at the event play a vital role in ‘Keeping Blackpool Tidy’.

The afternoon began with a presentation showcasing images of volunteers in action—picking up litter, maintaining public spaces, and supporting local initiatives. Diane Farley, Enveco’s Neighborhood Officer, took the stage to express her gratitude to the volunteers for their continuous efforts. She was joined by the Chair of Enveco’s Board, Councillor Adrian Hoyle, who also offered heartfelt thanks, underscoring the vital role that volunteers play.

A memorable highlight was the first appearance of Enveco’s Keep Blackpool Tidy Mascot. The mascot, which promotes responsible waste disposal, was well-received by the crowd, adding a fun and engaging touch to the afternoon. The mascot’s debut was a perfect symbol of Enveco’s efforts to combine education, community involvement, and environmental stewardship.

As part of the celebration, attendees were treated to a tour of the Blackpool Football Club grounds. This special tour was a bonus for everyone, allowing them to connect further with the town’s local culture and landmarks.

This event was a reminder of the power of community engagement. The volunteers’ hard work is essential to adding sparkle to the town.

Enveco’s Managing Director, John Hawkin, said: “We are deeply grateful to all our volunteers for their commitment to ‘Keeping Blackpool Tidy’. This event was a way of showing our appreciation and celebrating their efforts”.

Enveco looks forward to continuing its collaboration with volunteers and residents to ‘Keep Blackpool Tidy’ and from our team we want to say a big THANK YOU for all you do!

Take a look at the pictures from the afternoon by clicking HERE. 

Conclusion of the 2024/25 Bag It, Bin It Campaign

Continuing the Fight Against Dog Fouling in Blackpool: Bag It, Bin It Campaign 2024/2025

As we conclude the second year of the Bag It, Bin It campaign, we reflect on the progress made in addressing the ongoing issue of dog fouling across Blackpool. Launched in partnership with Blackpool Council, the campaign has raised awareness, encouraged responsible dog ownership, and made significant strides in improving community engagement. The team’s continued focus on tackling dog fouling, especially during the darker months when incidents tend to rise, has shown meaningful results.

This year, 502 stencils were deployed throughout the town, reminding dog owners to “Bag It, Bin It,” while over 150 posters were placed in key locations to further reinforce the message. In addition to these visible reminders, we saw a remarkable increase in community participation. Over 500 ‘you have done the right thing’ cards were distributed, giving the responsible dog walkers a chance to enter a competition. The number of cards uploaded online rose to 101, an impressive increase from the previous year.

These efforts reflect a significant uptake in engagement, demonstrating that residents are becoming more mindful of their responsibilities when walking dogs. 3 warnings were issued this year, highlighting our commitment to educating the public and ensuring compliance. While the number of penalties remained low, this aligns with the intention to foster a culture of responsibility rather than relying on punitive measures.

The “Do the Right Thing” competition returned this year to reward responsible dog walkers. Winners are celebrated each month, receiving prizes such as a month’s supply of dog food. The competition not only acknowledges responsible behavior but also helps to inspire others to follow suit.

The challenge remains in continuing to educate and raise awareness. To that end, we continue to use street stencils as a visible tool to reinforce the campaign’s message and encourage responsible dog ownership.

As we wrap up the 2024/2025 campaign, we are proud of the progress made. The success of Bag It, Bin It reflects the power of community collaboration. While there’s still work to be done, we remain committed to reducing dog fouling and maintaining clean streets in Blackpool. By working together, we can continue to “Bag It, Bin It” and create a cleaner, safer environment for everyone.

Enveco Launches Vape Recycling Initiative at Blackpool’s Household Waste Recycling Centre

We are excited to announce the launch of a vape recycling initiative at the Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC), marking an important step forward in managing waste from single-use vapes.

The HWRC team has been actively exploring ways to manage and recycle the growing volume of vape waste. After considerable research and efforts, they discovered a cost-effective solution following discussions with a Waste Electronic and Electrical Equipment (WEEE) provider. In response, Enveco’s HWRC applied to the producer-funded scheme, resulting in Wastecare, a leading waste management company based in Widnes, being selected to handle vape recycling. The Wastecare solution is fully funded from the producer-funded scheme, ensuring a sustainable and cost-effective approach for Blackpool residents.

The recycling process is simple and efficient. Residents can drop off their used vapes at the HWRC, where they will be safely stored in a specially provided receptacle. This ensures the safe disposal and recycling of vapes, reducing the environmental impact of these products.

Whilst it’s too early to estimate the total volume of vape waste, Enveco is optimistic that this initiative will provide a sustainable solution as demand for recycling increases, particularly with the government’s move towards a ban on single-use vapes.

Councillor Adrian Hoyle, Chair of the Enveco Board said:

“This is a significant step forward in vape waste management, benefiting both the environment and Blackpool. Enveco remains committed in providing innovative waste solutions and continues to seek new ways to improve recycling programs for the residents of Blackpool.”

Are you ready for the Christmas/Winter season?

To help, we have some important updates, helpful tips, and seasonal reminders to make your waste disposal and recycling efforts even easier during the festive season and beyond.

Green Waste

The Green Waste Service will have the usual winter break between the 22nd of November 2024 to the 17th of January 2025.

Christmas Tree Collection

Like previous years, the Trinity Hospice Charity will be collecting used Christmas Trees. If you would like your tree collected (for a small donation), please visit Trinity Hospice for details.

Winter Waste Collection Changes

To check your current waste collection day please click this link.

 

Winter and Post-Christmas Recycling Tips for Blackpool Residents

As the colder months and Christmas celebrations approach it’s important to stay mindful of how we handle our waste.

At Enveco NW, we’re committed to helping you recycle efficiently this winter. Here are some handy tips to make sure you’re doing your part for our environment:

Correct Use of Bins: Please ensure you’re using the right bins for your waste.

To help take a look at our BRAND NEW waste guide in the image below, which has been created with Makaton Symbols’*.

* Makaton is a communication programme that is increasingly used by people with communication difficulties to aid communication.

Wrapping Paper and Cards: Not all festive wrapping paper can be recycled. Avoid foil or glittery paper—stick to plain, non-laminated paper that can go in your brown sack.

Excess Packaging: With the increase in online deliveries, please remember to flatten and break down your cardboard boxes before placing them in your brown sack to make space for everyone’s recycling.

2. Unwanted Gifts and Items: If you have gifts you don’t need or items in good condition, consider donating them to our local Re-use Shop or a local charity. This helps reduce waste and supports the community.

3. Food Waste: During Christmas, food waste can increase significantly. Try to avoid overbuying and use leftovers creatively. If you do have unavoidable food waste, ensure it’s disposed of in your grey lidded bin.

By recycling thoughtfully and reusing where possible, we can all make a big difference this winter. Together, let’s Keep Blackpool Tidy and green throughout the festive season!

Blackpool’s Pavement and Carriageway Weed Treatment!

Enveco are contracted by Blackpool Council to deliver a street cleansing service, including the management of weeds, across the town.

Enveco deal with weeds on council land (public realm) which covers; roads, footpaths and parks and open spaces. The primary aim is to prevent problem weeds that compromise drainage systems, cause damage to highway and footpath surfaces, damage/interfere with structures, e.g., walls, or reduce visibility of signage and ensure weeds do not pose a health and safety risk for users of roads and footpaths. Weeds left untreated can cause slip/trip hazards and may cause obstructions on footpaths forcing people to avoid and potentially move onto roads.

An integrated weed management plan is adopted that, combined with street cleansing activities, ensures a year-round approach is taken and does not just focus on killing of weeds through chemical treatment. The frequency has been increased of mechanical sweeping on highways to ensure road gulley’s/kerb edges are kept clear of detritus to reduce opportunities for weed growth. All residential areas have both street and footpath mechanical sweeping scheduled throughout the year, again this reduces the buildup of detritus which can create seed beds for new weed growth, and regular sweeping clears buildup of dead weeds.

Monthly street inspection surveys identify problem areas, in particular growth of mares tail which is resistant to chemical treatment and will direct staff to manually remove weeds.

The above approach is ensuring a reduction in the use of pesticides though as we do not have a viable alternative at present continue to use a glyphosate-based herbicide. This type of herbicide is known as a non-residual translocated herbicide. Glyphosate is used because it is the safest and most effective herbicide that is available and certified for use in amenity situations. It is neutralised in contact with soil and has very low toxicity to humans, animals, and insects, and is widely used by many local authorities across the country.

Weed treatment spraying commences in Spring (April/May) when weeds have started to grow as the herbicide is only effective when sprayed on a plant because residual weed treatment chemicals aren’t used which ‘poison’ the soil. A second spray then takes place in Summer (July/August) on remaining weeds/new growth to prolong the effectiveness of treatment.

Residents can help maintain weed free streets and reduce the use of chemicals by clearing weeds that may have grown in front of their property or haven’t been treated due to parked cars preventing access manually.

The parks and open spaces team have reduced the use of chemicals to control weeds and are phasing out the use around tree bases and park furniture.

The Blackpool Green and Blue Infrastructure Policy has also encouraged the increase of areas left in a more natural state so areas are not being mown or treated to encourage greater bio-diversity.

We hope this information is useful and for regular updates on street cleansing operations please follow our social media accounts, Facebook and Twitter – @envecoblackpool, where we will post information on planned treatment dates.

If residents would like further information on herbicide chemicals used (glyphosate) please visit the Health and Safety Executive page for more information on this link.

7 ways to recycle, or donate unwanted Christmas presents

After the busy festive time, there may be a temptation for a big New Year clear out. We get it, but it’s important to take a bit more time with the clearing to make sure used wrapping paper, and unwanted gifts, are not unnecessarily going to landfills.

So, we have compiled a list of our top 7 tips that may help you with your January clean:

1.RE-GIFTING

Did you get a gift that’s not your style, well if so why not re-gift it for to that friend who you know will love it or why not arrange a mutual swap of unwanted Christmas presents with a friend or family member?

2.TAKE UNWANTED HOUSEHOLD GIFTS TO YOUR LOCAL REUSE SHOP

Located at the far end of our Household Waste Recycling Centre, is a great little shop. Which accepts donations and stops fit-for-purpose items from going into landfills, in turn helps the circular economy. Click here to find what you can and can’t take…

3.CHARITY SHOPS

There are so many great charity shops around, which are created to help important causes, so if there is a charity close to your heart, why not take your unwanted items there for someone else to find joy in them?

But let’s not forget that not everything can be donated. The British Red Cross, which operates hundreds of charity stores around the United Kingdom, has a list of goods that they are unable to accept, they consist of:

  • electric fires
  • medication
  • objects that can be used as weapons
  • bicycles
  • prescription glasses
  • children’s clothes with drawstring hoods
  • used Moses baskets or cots

4. DONATE OLD STAMPS

Save your used postage stamps from Christmas cards and gifts and gift them to organisations to repurpose them to make revenue.

Because they are sold per weight, used stamps can be converted into cash to support the ongoing operations of numerous charities. To donate, just clip off the stamp, leaving about 1cm of envelope bordering the stamp, and take them to a local charity which accepts them as donations.

Or you can collect stamps for RNIB and make a difference to blind and partially sighted people, to learn more about this charity click here.

5. DONATE CLOTHES AND BLANKETS TO THE HOMELESS

Giving away warm clothes and essentials to the homeless or the people residing in local homeless shelters is an additional extremely valuable choice. Make a wardrobe purge, or if you received any extra blankets, giant jumpers, hats, scarves, or socks for Christmas this year that you don’t wear, donate them to a good cause and help keep the homeless warm this winter.

If you have any concerns and have identified a rough sleeper, you can telephone Blackpool Council direct on 01253 477765 or email them at HSAT@blackpool.gov.uk.

6. RECYCLE

Recycle more than just your used Christmas cards and empty bottles/cans.  When it comes to cleaning up after the festivities consider how any of the packaging you received for Christmas this year can be recycled appropriately.

Take a look at our helpful what goes in your bin guide.

7. DONATE TOYS TO A CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

If your children’s have too many gifts or something that wasn’t the ideal fit for them, you can give away unwanted toys to a local hospice or children’s hospital.