Councillor calls for GUM-BUSTING machine to tackle Southport’s sticky problem

Councillor calls for GUM-BUSTING machine to tackle Southport’s sticky problem.

A leading councillor has issued a plea for a gum-busting machine to remove the chewing gum which is blighting Southport’s streets.

Cllr David Barton has formally requested that Sefton Council looks to buy a £14,000 MV700 Gladiator Chewing Gum Removal Machine.

Cllr Barton said it should be put to work across the borough, starting with key tourist all-year-round tourist destinations such as Lord Street.

The machine deep-cleans to remove all traces of gum and grime, with minimal fuss and without damage to paving surfaces, jointing or substrates, using low pressure steam and natural bio-degradable detergents.

The waste is then uniquely vacuumed up for a controlled disposal.

Cllr Barton, who represents Dukes Ward and who is a leading campaigner for the restoration and regeneration of Southport, said: “Having been informed by the council that this would need to be considered as a growth item in the next calendar year I am hopeful that this request may eventually be granted in view of the many benefits to be derived.

“Besides the overall greatly improved cleaner landscape and public realm, it would bring a smoother yet gentler finish on delicate stone surfaces such as the flag stone paving and provide overall long-term savings to the authority when it is seeking to be as fiscally prudent as possible.”

As part of his ongoing Town Audit, originally launched back in 2015, Cllr Barton has now consulted with masses of stakeholders ranging from property owners to business owners leasing properties to visitors and townspeople.

He said: “This is a key issue which if acted upon could truly restore Southport’s fortunes and assist in restoring the town’s status as the ideal place to work, live, visit and invest for the long- term future.

“This piece of equipment would be ideal for reaching historically difficult areas such as the inner paving sheltered by the Victorian Verandah canopies.

“Should the council wish to trial the Gladiator by leasing, this could also provide equal benefits and would be greatly welcomed in notably squalid areas that become periodically tarnished by the elements, such as Central Lord Street, which is particularly prone to general discolouring where the older style trees are located.

“Having raised this formally at a Sefton Council meeting, I am continuing to pursue potential adoption of this cleaning technique which could ultimately serve to bring back much essential investment into the local retail sector besides an improved sense of morale and civic pride for all local residents and business owners.

“Naturally given ongoing concerted efforts being made by key stakeholders in the local community to improve the high street for everyone it is therefore crucial to act as soon as possible whilst there is a rising tide of momentum towards rejuvenating the local environment for people of all ages to appreciate and utilise, be this shopping, working or visiting the local attractions.”