UPDATE: The City of Canning in Perth has just announced a new campaign aimed at resolving the growing problem of abandoned shopping trolleys cluttering public spaces. This urgent initiative comes amid increasing concerns that these trolleys pose significant hazards to pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers.
Residents are being encouraged to return shopping trolleys to designated areas after use and report any that are left behind. Councillor Paul Tucek highlighted the alarming frequency of abandoned trolleys, stating, “I see so many abandoned trolleys on footpaths and in car parks.” He noted that even during his morning routine, he frequently encounters trolleys scattered across the community, despite efforts to collect them.
The campaign seeks to address not only safety hazards but also the aesthetic damage caused by trolleys left on verges, gardens, and even in waterways. “Abandoned trolleys are a safety hazard, blocking footpaths around shopping centres and posing risks for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles,” Tucek emphasized.
Mayor Patrick Hall echoed these sentiments, calling on the public to participate actively in the campaign. “We know how frustrating abandoned trolleys can be. They create hazards, damage the look of our neighbourhoods, and sometimes end up polluting our local waterways,” Hall stated. He urged community members to work together with retail partners to keep Canning looking its best.
This issue is not isolated to Canning; it resonates across Australia. In December, over 20 shopping trolleys were discovered abandoned in a shallow creek in Canberra, illustrating the widespread nature of the problem. A spokesperson for Coles acknowledged the situation, stating, “Abandoned trolleys are a nuisance to local communities, and we are continually working to make this better across all our stores.”
The City of Canning is collaborating closely with local shopping centres, emphasizing that retailers are responsible for retrieving their trolleys. Local laws allow authorities to impound trolleys that remain uncollected for more than 12 to 24 hours after notification. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the urgent need to address the environmental and safety implications of neglected trolleys.
As the City of Canning pushes forward with this campaign, residents are urged to take action by returning trolleys and reporting any abandoned ones. This is a crucial step in maintaining the safety and aesthetics of their community.
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