GRAFFITI is about to be blasted out of Parramatta with council’s new graffiti removal unit.

The truck uses environmentally-friendly sodium bicarbonate to blast graffiti off buildings and walls as quickly as possible after council has been notified of the vandalism.

Lord Mayor Paul Garrard blasts a wall in Parramatta. PICTURE: JOHN APPLEYARD

Parramatta Council bought the graffiti-blaster after councillors John Chedid and Michael McDermott campaigned for a better solution to the city’s growing problem.

Lord Mayor Paul Garrard said graffiti vandalism was costing Parramatta money and resources which could be better used to enhance the city.

“We are determined to keep our city clean and attractive, and the graffiti crime removal unit is equipped to keep Parramatta graffiti free,’’ Cr Garrard said.

“The new vehicle and soda blaster means we are better able to respond to graffiti crimes quickly and in a cost-efficient manner.’’

Cr McDermott said the new graffiti removal vehicle showed Parramatta Council was determined to eradicate “the criminal carnage of graffiti from our communities’’.

“By developing such a purpose-built vehicle, we once again illustrate Parramatta is a leader in terms of commonsense action and innovative solutions to this crime,’’ Cr McDermott said.

Cr Chedid added graffiti vandalism was a persistent crime that destroyed community pride and had a detrimental effect on perceptions of safety and security.

“Tackling graffiti vandalism requires a holistic response that incorporates community education to change perceptions and behaviour,’’ Cr Chedid said.

In NSW, all graffiti on public or private property, unless the property owner has given permission, is a crime punishable by imprisonment, community service orders or fines of up to $2200.

People can report graffiti vandalism and vandals to police through the police assistance line on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or by calling Parramatta Council on 9806 5050.