Litter "is associated with depleted civic trust...and lower community pride"

Although this study was carried out in the US, its main findings are likely to reflect how people feel about litter, parks and public space in British towns and cities as well.

None of this feels like rocket science to me but then I've been reading (and posting) stuff like this for the 10 years I've been on HOL! The report can be accessed via this page

ACES findings are organized across three main topics: park design and maintenance; neighborhood order and disorder; and welcoming civic spaces and buildings. The publication uses infographics, photos, and illustrations to translate findings from sophisticated econometric models into an accessible, easy-to-use resource for local implementers and decision-makers. Highlights include:

• People living near popular parks report greater community connection and greater satisfaction with local government. They are 14% more likely to report satisfaction with police and 13% more likely to report satisfaction with the mayor.

• Litter is associated with depleted civic trust. People who report litter to be “very common” in their neighborhood exhibit reduced civic trust across a number of measures, including 10% lower community pride and 10% lower likelihood of believing that community members care about one another.

• Vacant lots present a challenge, and an opportunity. A photo experiment indicates that even moderate clean-up of a vacant lot can significantly enhance measures of civic trust—including a 13% increase in the belief that people care about their community.

• ACES demonstrates that relatively modest design improvements can make a difference in civic perceptions. Photo experiments found that incorporating seating, greenery, lighting, and positive messaging can make civic spaces feel more welcoming and inclusive.