A NEW trial scheme is set to signal a zero tolerance approach to graffiti across Wirral.

Through the “It’s your call” borough-wide reporting service, the public will be able to report graffiti and have it removed free of charge.

Racist and offensive graffiti will be removed within 24 hours.

In partnership with the Probation Services, who will supply a team of young offenders on Community Based Orders, the council’s Anti-Social Behaviour Team, the fire service, Tranmere Together and the technical services department, the pilot scheme will provide a comprehensive service for the removal of graffiti not just from public buildings, but from residents’ and business properties. Cllr Jean Quinn, Liberal Democrat Cabinet Member for Streetscene and Transport Services, said: “Graffiti levels are rising and it’s time to send a clear message that this blight on our neighbourhoods will no longer be tolerated.

“Using a partnership approach we can extend our current efforts, maximise the amount of graffiti removal taking place, and reduce the likelihood of graffiti re-occurring.

“As well as improving the graffiti removal service, the scheme should also deliver the added benefits of reducing anti-social behaviour, promo-ting civic pride and con-tributing to the rehabilita-tion of offenders.”

“And by raising aware-ness of the problems associated with graffiti with young people the scheme should promote a council-wide zero tolerance approach to graffiti.”

Removal of graffiti on private housing will be free, with a coating ser-vice offered for homes suf-fering recurring graffiti.

The new policy will go to next week’s Wirral cabinet meeting for approval.