Liverpool City Council will use new funding to continue cleaning chewing gum from streets and encourage people to dispose of it responsibly. The grant is part of a national programme supporting councils to reduce gum litter.
Liverpool City Council has successfully been awarded a grant of £27,500 from the Chewing Gum Task Force. This funding, administered by the environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, aims to tackle the issue of discarded chewing gum and curb related littering across the city. This award marks the fourth consecutive year that Liverpool has received this support, bringing the total funding to over £100,000. These resources are designed to help clean gum from pavements and discourage future littering in both residential neighborhoods and high-profile areas of the city.
The funds have been used to acquire specialist machinery and provide dedicated staff to manage removal efforts. As the council continues its clean-up initiative, it also plans to enhance engagement with residents and visitors to raise awareness about the environmental and aesthetic impact of chewing gum. The prevalence of this specific type of litter has led to varied reactions from the public. One resident, when asked about the state of the city’s streets, suggested that the issue is not severe and remarked, “I don’t see any great problem.”
Conversely, others view the presence of litter as a significant concern, emphasizing the need for both cleaner public spaces and a shift in personal responsibility. One member of the public expressed frustration, noting, “I just don’t know why people can’t just do their little bit to make the world better for everyone.” There is a common sentiment among those interviewed that, while council action is important, the ultimate solution relies on citizens properly disposing of their waste, especially when disposal facilities are available. The council aims for its ongoing efforts to not only maintain cleaner streets but also to foster a culture of civic pride.
