PARRAMATTA Council has stepped up its battle against vandals by arming its Graffiti Crime Removal Unit with a new quick response vehicle and soda blaster equipment.

Mayor Paul Garrard and Crs John Chedid and Michael McDermott with Parramatta Council's new graffiti-buster quick response vehicle.

Lord Mayor Paul Garrard said graffiti vandalism had become a significant concern costing our community money and resources that could be better used on important projects.

“We are determined to keep our city clean and attractive and the removal unit is equipped to keep Parramatta graffiti-free,” he said.

“We are now better able to respond to graffiti crimes quickly and in a cost-efficient manner,” Cr Garrard said.

“The blasting device uses environmentally-friendly sodium bicarbonate, which is non-toxic, biodegradable and non-hazardous.

“This is especially important in protecting surfaces and structures while removing graffiti,” he said.

Cr Michael McDermott said the new vehicle demonstrated the determination of Parramatta Council in eradicating the criminal carnage of graffiti.

“This illustrates that Parramatta is a leader in terms of commonsense action and innovative solutions to this crime,” he said.

“I know I’d rather be building parks and facilities for families instead of spending money cleaning off this vandalism. Now we can do it in-house, quickly and cheaply.”

Residents can report vandalism to the police on 131 444 or call the council on 9806 5050.