All of us see graffiti at some time or another as we go about our business in the community. It is words, colours, patterns and shapes that are drawn or scratched on buildings, underpasses, trains, buses and other surfaces. It is done without permission and it is against the law.
How does it harm our community?
Graffiti increases the fear of crime in the community as it send out the message that nobody cares.
The clean up procedure is expensive so it takes money away from our other services. Graffiti costs the UK over £1bn a year.
Graffiti gives the public a greater sense of fear of crime in that area. It can decrease property value and sometimes instigate loss of tourism and businesses.
Graffiti can often act as a magnet and attract more graffiti to the area.
What is the best way to stop it?
The most effective way is to remove it as promptly as possible. Studies have found that if you remove graffiti the culprits do eventually give up.
What to do if you see graffiti
If you see graffiti, please let us know so that we can make arrangements to remove it.
To report graffiti you can:
Report it via the My Monmouthshire app here