Public Help Sought in Fighting Dangerous Litter

Iconic public areas are becoming dangerous for people and animals after an increase in the amount of broken glass being left on the ground.

The increasing amount of rubbish has become so bad since the start of Daylight Saving that New Plymouth District Council has put another person on rubbish pick up duty to help keep roads, walkways and reserve clear of rubbish.

The police have also charged two people for depositing dangerous litter and will be keeping an eye out for anyone else smashing glass on roads, walkways or reserves.

“The glass is dangerous for children and families who are out enjoying the warmer weather on the Coastal Walkway or at Lake Rotomanu, and also for any dogs that are being taken for walks,” says Manager Parks Programmes Steve McGill.

“We’re also having issues on the edge of liquor ban areas, such as Redcoat Lane, and from people we suspect are throwing bottles out of their cars as they’re driving along. It’s particularly noticeable that there is an increase in broken glass after Friday and Saturday nights.

“Even if people are just leaving bottles whole in a reserve, others are coming along and breaking them – so please, put all rubbish in a bin and if there isn’t a bin around, take them home for recycling.”

Mr McGill says if anyone sees bottles being smashed or other inappropriate behaviour, they can report it to either the police or the council.

“We want to stop such dangerous vandalism and the police will prosecute anyone they catch, so please contact us or the police so we can get on top of it,” he says.