The streets of Liverpool have long been plagued by abandoned shopping trolleys, a persistent eyesore that affects our community’s appearance and safety. Liverpool Council refuse to acknowledge the unique challenges that exist in our City and rather than proactively research solutions they constantly blame others for their own short comings.
While retailers themselves have attempted various solutions over the years, from coin-operated systems to electronic proximity locks, these approaches have failed to address the root cause of the problem: people without personal transportation need a way to get their groceries home.
The Current Situation
Liverpool Council and local retailers have operated in silos for years, implementing solutions that serve their individual interests rather than addressing the community’s needs. Coin-operated trolleys, once seen as a viable solution, have become obsolete – the deposit amount no longer justifies the return trip for most shoppers. Meanwhile, electronic proximity locks merely protect retailer assets without solving the fundamental transportation challenge faced by our community members. Each shopping trolley can cost upwards of $100 to produce.
Council and Retailer Inaction: A Growing Frustration
It’s high time we address the elephant in the room: the disappointing lack of action from both Liverpool Council and shopping centre retailers. The Council’s approach to this issue has been nothing short of negligent. When mowing parks, Council workers simply move the abandoned trolleys aside, mow the lawn, and then replace the trolleys – a band-aid solution that solves nothing. This practice not only fails to address the root cause but also wastes taxpayer money on inefficient work practices.
Moreover, the Council’s failure to take a harder stance on shopping centre retailers is unacceptable. These retailers, who profit from our community, have offered little to nothing in terms of solving this problem. Their inaction demonstrates a clear disregard for the wellbeing and appearance of our neighbourhoods. It’s time for both the Council and retailers to step up and take responsibility for the mess they’ve allowed to accumulate on our streets.
A Fresh Approach: The Liverpool Community Shopping Transport Initiative
We propose an innovative solution that leverages existing resources and creates a win-win situation for all stakeholders. Here’s how it works:
Utilising Existing Resources
Liverpool Council currently maintains lease payments on four vehicles previously assigned to departed employees. Rather than letting these assets sit idle or attempting to break lease agreements, these vehicles could be repurposed for community benefit. The only additional costs would be:
- Insurance coverage for volunteer drivers
- CCTV camera installation for security
- Basic vehicle branding
The Voucher System
- Customers spending over $100 at participating retailers receive a transport voucher
- Vouchers are automatically generated at checkout, similar to existing fuel discount or promotional vouchers
- Each voucher entitles the customer to a free ride home with their shopping
- Retailers provide a $5 grocery voucher to drivers for each completed journey
- While retailers give $5 in retail value, their actual cost is approximately $2.50, making it a cost-effective solution
Volunteer Driver Benefits
- Drivers can earn grocery vouchers while serving their community
- Flexible scheduling allows volunteers to work when convenient
- All vehicles equipped with CCTV for safety and security
- Comprehensive insurance coverage provided by Council
Digital Infrastructure
Based on current market rates, developing a basic booking app would cost approximately $30,000-40,000. This would include:
- Customer booking interface
- Driver management system
- Real-time tracking
- Basic analytics dashboard
- Integration with retailer systems for voucher validation
Benefits to Stakeholders
For the Community
- Free, safe transport for groceries
- Reduced street clutter from abandoned trolleys
- Employment opportunities for volunteer drivers
- Stronger community connections
For Retailers
- Reduced trolley replacement costs
- Increased customer loyalty
- Minimal cost through voucher system
- Positive community engagement
For Liverpool Council
- Efficient use of existing resources
- Reduced clean-up costs for abandoned trolleys
- Improved community services
- Enhanced public image
Implementation Timeline
- Month 1-2: App development and testing
- Month 2: Vehicle fitting and insurance arrangement
- Month 3: Volunteer recruitment and training
- Month 4: Pilot program with select retailers
- Month 5: Full program launch
Cost Breakdown
One-Time Costs
- App Development: ~$35,000 (approximate)
- CCTV Installation: ~$2,000 per vehicle
- Vehicle Branding: ~$500 per vehicle
Ongoing Costs
- Additional Insurance: TBD based on provider quotes
- App Maintenance: ~$500/month
- Fuel Costs: Covered by existing Council budget potential to convert to electric vehicles once current Council leases expire.
Conclusion
This initiative represents a practical, community-focused solution to a long-standing problem. By utilising existing resources and creating a collaborative framework between Council, retailers, and community members, we can address the shopping trolley crisis while building a stronger, more connected community.
The beauty of this solution lies in its simplicity and sustainability. Rather than fighting against human nature or implementing punitive measures, it provides a service that benefits everyone involved. While we anticipate that online grocery shopping will continue to grow in popularity over the coming years, this immediate solution would deliver sensational results for all stakeholders. It provides:
- For the community: A practical solution to a daily challenge
- For retailers: Reduced asset loss and increased customer satisfaction
- For Council: An efficient use of existing resources and improved community relations
As online shopping evolves and becomes more widespread, this service can adapt and complement these changes. In the meantime, this initiative offers an immediate, practical solution that addresses current community needs while building stronger connections between residents, retailers, and local government. It’s time for Liverpool to lead the way in innovative community solutions.
Please consider following me on social media for topics that we will be discussing this week on the Pulse. https://www.facebook.com/gregorypropertyagents
Do you have some feedback or idea how to improve this? Then please call through this Thursday from 9-11am when we are on air, and let the community know about it 9822 8893.
It takes a community to solve community problems. – Dr Betty Green, Liverpool Councillor
Note: All costs are approximate and information from cars not being used was current as at September according to Councillor Richard Ammoun
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