A new ballot bin encouraging smokers to dispose of their cigarette butts has been snubbed outside the city’s hospital.
Preston City Council is trialling a new method for cleaner streets and has put two new ballot bins for cigarette butts in place.
The Sharoe Green Lane bin – close to one of the bus stops – has the majority of letters missing and just a coffee stirrer inside.
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The bright yellow bins are supposed to have one engaging question on them and two responses.
This intends to nudge smokers to vote with their cigarette butts rather than drop them on the ground.
The one in the city centre in Lancaster Road opposite the Lancaster Gate pub has been proving more popular.
A spokesperson for the city council said: “We are aware that one of the ballot bins has been vandalised, and this has now been repaired.
“It is disappointing that infrastructure provided to help improve the local environment has been damaged. We will continue to review the locations of these bins as part of our ongoing assessment and maintenance programme.
“The ballot bins were installed to provide smokers with an easy and engaging way to dispose of cigarette butts correctly. Cigarette butts are one of the most commonly littered items and can have a significant impact on the appearance of our streets and public spaces. The bins were introduced as part of our wider efforts to reduce litter, encourage responsible disposal and help keep our communities cleaner and more attractive for residents and visitors alike.”
