Public infrastructure

The way that we design our public spaces is not just a matter of aesthetics.

In the same way that the creation of walking and cycling routes in our cities can affect people’s transport and commuting behaviours, we can also ‘design’ in safer and more cared for spaces which affect the tendency for littering and other environmental crimes.

Understanding the issue

Public spaces are often full of objects like lampposts, road signs, post boxes, planters, benches and bus shelters. Unfortunately, these features can often be the focus of anti-social behaviour, littering, graffiti and vandalism and their surfaces can be hard to clean. Objects which are badly designed or inappropriately located can trap litter and secluded and neglected parts of public spaces are likely to attract more anti-social behaviour.

Tackling the issue

There are many different types of bins across Wales to help us keep our communities clean. A lack of bins is often used as an excuse for littering, but bins alone to not solve the issue of litter.

Unfortunately, bins are expensive so it’s impossible to provide them everywhere. If there are no bins around, we need to take our litter and bagged dog fouling home with us to keep our communities clean.

To be effective, bins need to be maintained and emptied regularly. Keep Wales Tidy recognises the importance of bins in preventing litter, and we believe the right bin in the right place can have a big impact.