Bus stop litter issue

Location: Bus stops on Greystoke Avenue / Trowbridge Road, Southmead (both directions) Description: The bus stops on Greystoke Avenue at the junction with Trowbridge Road are subject to persistent and longstanding underservicing by Bristol City Council’s street cleansing function. This is not an isolated accumulation of litter following a single event. The attached photograph (taken from a bus) shows ingrained dirt, embedded litter, and general detritus across the paving and waiting area, indicating that the location has not received effective mechanical or manual deep cleansing for a considerable period. As a high-footfall public transport node—used daily by residents, NHS staff, patients, and visitors travelling to and from Southmead Hospital—this stop should be maintained to a higher cleansing standard than is currently evident. The condition of the surface demonstrates: Long-term build-up rather than recent littering Failure to remove compacted debris and grime Inadequate frequency and/or quality of cleansing interventions This materially undermines public confidence in civic services and disproportionately affects a neighbourhood already identified as experiencing multiple deprivation pressures. Statutory and policy basis for action: Environmental Protection Act 1990 – Section 89 Bristol City Council has a statutory duty to ensure that relevant land, including highways and bus stops, is kept clear of litter and refuse so far as is practicable. Persistent ingrained dirt is evidence that this duty is not currently being met at this location. Code of Practice on Litter and Refuse (Defra, 2006 – as amended) This bus stop would reasonably fall within a high-use category, requiring: More frequent inspections Responsive cleansing Periodic deep cleaning where detritus becomes embedded The condition shown suggests non-compliance with the spirit and intent of this Code. Highways Act 1980 – Section 41 The Council has a duty to maintain the highway in a condition that is safe and passable. While this report concerns cleanliness rather than structural failure, ingrained dirt and debris at a bus stop materially affect usability, accessibility, and safety—particularly for older people and those with mobility issues. Bristol City Council Street Cleansing Policy The Council’s own policy commits to a risk-based, location-sensitive approach, recognising that transport interchanges and bus stops require enhanced attention. The current condition indicates that this policy is not being applied effectively at this site. Requested action: A deep clean of the bus stops and immediate surrounding pavement (not merely a superficial sweep) Review of the cleansing schedule and classification for this location Confirmation of the current cleansing frequency assigned to these bus stops Assurance that future servicing aligns with the site’s actual usage and importance This report should be treated as evidence of systemic underservicing, not a one-off complaint. Continued neglect of public transport infrastructure in deprived areas runs counter to the Council’s stated commitments on equality, public health, and environmental stewardship. Why this matters (public interest): Care for shared civic space is a matter of stewardship, not aesthetics. Well-maintained public infrastructure supports: Dignity of residents Safe and accessible transport Public health outcomes Civic pride and social cohesion Neglect communicates abandonment. Proper maintenance communicates responsibility.