Graffiti may soon be scrubbed out (From Penarth Times)

Graffiti may soon be scrubbed out

PENARTH'S spiralling graffiti problem could soon be wiped out.

The Vale of Glamorgan Council have teamed up with local police to try to rid the town of it's ugly urban art.

As part of a campaign aimed at maintaining improvements to the area's environment, five dedicated council "Streetcare" teams have been put on special assignment.

Their mission is to completely obliterate graffiti and other eyesores from Penarth, and the wider Vale, using the additional funding of £175,000 pumped into the scheme by the local authority.

A range of initiatives have already been developed under the "Streetcare" banner to help make the area more attractive for residents, visitors and potential developers.

And as the key partners, the council and police are also working together to deal with other problem issues such as abandoned vehicles.

They have also involved local residents. As part of the initiative, Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinators have been given "action pads." They can use these to provide the council with details of problems such as litter, overflowing bins, out of order street lights and graffiti.

Council leader, Jeff James told the Times: "Working in conjunction with our partners, the council is showing a real commitment to improving the quality of the local environment and, by doing this, we will make a difference to the way people feel about their community.

Vale Police Chief Superintendent Colin Jones said: "Graffiti affects all parts of the community and there is no doubt it adds to the fear of crime."

Vale Neighbourhood Watch chairman, John Walker added: "I'm sure that our co-ordinators and members will make good use of these action pads to help improve the local environment.

"Of course, reports presented to the council will be prioritised and it is to be expected that problems with racist and obscene graffiti will be given top priority."