Delayed Graffiti Removal Raises Concerns Over Reporting App

On September 29th, 2025, a Lancaster City Council meeting addressed concerns over a three-week delay in removing "highly offensive" graffiti, which has led to questions about the effectiveness of the "Love Clean Streets" app used by the council to report environmental and street issues.

Councillor Matthew Black explained that he had reported the graffiti on a bridge via the app, which is used by multiple councils for reporting problems such as potholes and fly-tipping. However, the app had sent a message indicating that the case was closed, even though the "graffiti remained."

In response, Councillor Paul Hart, the cabinet member for environmental services, acknowledged that "the case was closed too soon." He added, "I am not an expert on apps, but I have been told that officers have taken steps and it should be better."

The council's efforts to address the app's shortcomings come as residents continue to rely on it to report various issues in their community. The delayed graffiti removal has highlighted the need for the council to ensure the app functions effectively and provides accurate updates to users.