Bus shelters get annual spring clean

BUS shelters in Carmarthenshire are getting their annual spring clean.

An extensive cleansing programme is underway across the county.

All 530 bus shelters will be power-washed by cleansing operatives. Once all the grime has been removed, specialist cleaning products will be used to get rid of any graffiti.

Bus shelters in the county are cleaned twice a year, in the spring and the autumn.

Council leaders say that in these tough financial times, they are working with a very limited budget but keeping shelters clean is a priority.

They are also warning that anyone caught vandalising or defacing council property will be dealt with harshly.

Council Leader Kevin Madge said: “The bus shelters are all being cleaned and it is surprising how the dirt builds up over the winter months. I want to reassure residents that this is being done.

“I have noticed that there is graffiti on some shelters and this can be very difficult and expensive to remove. A number have also been vandalised. This will not be tolerated, and anyone caught will be reported to the police for criminal damage.”

Council environmental enforcement officers regularly patrol the county and anyone caught spraying graffiti on the shelters or any other street furniture can be issued with a fixed penalty notice for £75 or be taken to court where the fine is even higher.

Executive Board Member for Street Scene Cllr Colin Evans said: “Our cleansing operatives are doing a great job; but not only do they have the whole county to look after, but unfortunately, we are working with a reduced budget.

“Keeping our county clean and safe is a major priority and although it is very challenging, we are looking at ways to boost the coffers, for example, by introducing advertising opportunities. We will do all we can to keep Carmarthenshire clean for residents and visitors.”

Residents are being asked to report any criminal damage they witness to the police by calling 101.