A PILOT scheme removing graffiti free of charge from private houses and flats and small businesses across Christchurch has proved such a success during the past year that civic bosses want to see it continue.

Resources members at the Civic Offices are being recommended to give their thumbs up to the scheme when they meet next Wednesday.

During the past year 35 homes, blocks of flats and boundary walls have had unsightly graffiti removed, and a further 20 are pending subject to resources - mem-bers agreeing to additional funding of £1,000 to finance the scheme until the end of the current financial year.

"Residents who have used the service have all been very impressed and many have taken the time to write in to express their opinions," says a report to be seen at the meeting.

Funding of £3,000 was agreed last year to finance the scheme for 12 months and members will hear that council officers believe the cost to keep it running for another year should be about the same, since they say they don't foresee an increase in demand for the service.

"It is accepted that graffiti is detrimental to the environment of an area and can contribute to crime and the fear of crime.

"Rapid removal reduces these fears and may deter those causing graffiti," says the report.

The only problem with the service so far has been a few delays in responding to the initial call asking for graffiti to be removed.

This occurred when the complainant was not the owner or occupier of a property and the contractors then had to contact them to get permission to carry out the cleaning.

Businesses with fewer than 10 employees are also eligible for the service.