Unfortunately the amount of graffiti, particularly in Blenheim and Picton, has increased dramatically over the last year. Council has implemented a variety of programmes to counter graffiti, working with the Police, local businesses and schools, as well as reacting quickly to remove it.
The cost of removal is huge. Last year Council spent approximately $50,000 removing graffiti from public property. However, as many property owners paint out graffiti on their own property and meet the cost themselves realistically the true graffiti removal cost to the community last year was closer to $100,000.
You can help! if you see graffiti or vandals in action call the police or, if you notice fresh graffiti, notify Council as soon as possible so it can be cleaned up quickly, thereby acting as a deterrent to prevent taggers re-offending.