Central Coast Council is urging the community to be vigilant when it comes to vandalism following the destruction of several public place litter bins.

Since the implementation of the public place litter bin renewal program, a number of bins have been significantly damaged or burnt out across the Coast. 

Council Director Roads, Transport, Drainage and Waste, Boris Bolgoff said the replacement of litter bins comes at a direct cost to ratepayers.  

“We try to repair any damage on site, however, due to excessive damage bins usually have to be removed in the interest of public safety,” Mr Bolgoff said.

“In the last two years, eight double waste stations have been burnt, six of which were at Bato Yard Skate Park, with another five single garbage enclosures at Umina requiring removal due to the damage, which has caused upwards of $20,000 in vandalised infrastructure. 

“We salvage what we can, though when bins are damaged beyond repair the cost of replacement really starts to add up.

“This is a direct loss to Council and can impact upon the replacement of bins if they are constantly damaged as well as distribution of bins in the future due to reduced resources.

“Graffiti is also a growing concern with many road signs damaged over the last twelve months – this is not only at a cost to Council to remove, but also impacts driver safety.”

This financial year the Public Place Bin Replacement Program looks to roll our 160 new waste and recycling units and a solar compaction bin that will compress litter within the bin.

This will help provide adequate amenities for the community to dispose of waste responsibly while enjoying the Coast’s amazing parks and unique environment.

Mayor Lisa Matthews encouraged the community to report any vandalism as soon as they observe it in their local area.

“Vandalism impacts neighbourhood appearance as well as businesses and community confidence in the safety and security of public places,” Mayor Matthews said.

“The quicker we act to report, remove and repair the damage caused, the less likely it will recur again. I encourage the community to help by reporting vandalism when they see it.  

“It is a complex issue that Council is committed to help resolve with the community and local police.”

Vandalism and graffiti are crimes that should be reported via the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.

ENDS