WINCHESTER Business Improvement District has launched a new plan to clean up the city.

The BID has teamed up with the city council to provide enhanced street care including routine repairs, redecorating street furniture and chewing gum removal.

The new StreetCare team, funded by the BID, will draw up and complete a schedule of works each week.

Cllr Jan Warwick, portfolio holder for neighbourhoods and environment, said: “We are delighted to be working with the Winchester BID on this important programme of works throughout the city. A large proportion of this work is basic routine maintenance that can make such a difference to the overall appearance of the streets and the overall shopping experience.”

BID manager Catherine Turness added: “Chewing gum, trade waste and general maintenance is an on-going concern for many businesses and we want to address these issues efficiently.”

The council is also looking at other improvements including removing bulk waste bins and refurbishing St Maurice’s Covert.