Alderney is looking to spruce itself up with £50,000 spend

Eyesore areas that will be targeted include the harbour (tackling dumped boats), the recycling area, the green waste depot and the scrambles track.

The scheme will identify hotspots that need addressing and derelict vehicles and equipment that require removal. The States Works Department will take action.

One of the proposals involves a metal amnesty whereby old machinery which is littering private land will be collected and shipped off the island.

Residents will be invited to get involved by suggesting ideas for improving the look of the island, by taking responsibility for their own properties – and for their pets when it comes to dog mess.

The project is due to be launched next April, overseen by the General Services Committee. A dedicated email will be set up for residents’ suggestions. A spokeswoman for the States said: ‘It should be stressed that projects are not necessarily focused solely on dereliction but could involve the further enhancement of certain areas or facilities such as signposting and landscaping.’

The Chamber of Commerce welcomed the project.

‘We are strongly in favour of this initiative – anything that makes Alderney a more attractive place to visit and set up a business is positive,’ said Andrew Eggleston, Chamber president.

But States Member Steve Roberts thought the government should put its own house in order before issuing instructions to residents on tidying their property up.

‘To my mind £50,000 is a lot of money. There are plenty of States-owned properties that need improving and they should focus on those first.’