HARLOW'S streets are set to get cleaner with the launch of a town-wide blitz on litter and dumped rubbish.

Harlow Town Tidy 2001 will see each residential area targeted for a clear-up during the eight-week campaign.

The aim is to significantly improve the cleanliness of the town by removing as much rubbish as possible, as well as increasing residents' awareness of the problems of litter.

Work includes a pre-inspection of all the areas to identify which should be given priority, increasing the frequency of litter-picking to twice a week, clearing litter from landscaped areas and shrub beds and ensuring each residential area receives at least two cleans during the tidy up.

Staff from the councils' cleansing and environment and parks and landscapes departments will concentrate on residential areas and shopping hatches, while dated posters will be put up in many roads telling residents that the local areas around their homes have been cleaned up.

Councillor Derek Eardley, who is responsible for the environment portfolio, said: "The council is committed to improving the appearance of Harlow it is a pledge we included in our contract to the town document.

"We're doing our bit but need the public's help as well. It's not just the council's town, it's everybody's town and we want people to take pride in the place where they live.

"There's no excuse for dropping litter or dumping household furniture like cookers and fridges. People need to take responsibility for their own rubbish."

Anyone who sees dumped rubbish around the town should report it to the council's action line on 01279 446900.