MyMiltonKeynes BID Cleans Up Former Toys R Us Site

The Public Realm team at MyMiltonKeynes BID has taken swift and decisive action to transform a litter-strewn area around the former Toys R Us building in Milton Keynes City Centre.

Following regular reports from businesses and visitors about significant litter build-up and environmental neglect, MyMiltonKeynes BID stepped in to improve the experience for customers using the neighbouring Argos store and city centre car parks. The condition of the site had become a concern, with benches attracting street drinking and anti-social behaviour, further impacting perceptions of safety and cleanliness.

As the land is privately owned, it does not fall under the council’s statutory cleansing responsibilities. Ongoing uncertainty around land ownership has meant the site had not been consistently maintained. However, rather than wait for ownership matters to be resolved, MyMiltonKeynes BID took immediate and direct action.

Over one and a half days, the MyMiltonKeynes BID Public Realm team carried out a comprehensive clean-up operation, removing large quantities of litter and debris and restoring the area to a far higher standard. The work was completed at no additional financial cost to levy payers beyond staff time, demonstrating the BID’s proactive and hands-on approach to managing the city centre environment.

MyMiltonKeynes BID is now working to establish clear land ownership and encourage those responsible to maintain the site to prevent future deterioration.

This intervention reflects MyMiltonKeynes BID’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a clean, safe and welcoming city centre.