$2 shopping trolley system to get a run

In a bid to overcome the dumping of shopping trolleys Ryde City Council has given the go-ahead for a 12-month trial of a $2 coin deposit/return system in the Council car park outside Eastwood shopping village.

The move follows a request by Superfresh Fruit and Vegetable Fruit Market which was debated at a recent Council committee meeting, and while some councillors were not convinced the installation of the bays would be successful, they agreed to a trial.

“We want to see whether it works first before we offer to support it,” Clr Terry Perram said.

The year-long trial with a review at six months will determine whether compatibility issues with other supermarkets at the Eastwood Shopping village can be resolved.

“This business owner will set a precedent for the area. Everyone should do it. I really think we should support the initiative shown by the owner to try and reduce this problem,” Clr Terry Ryan said.

To install the bays, Council will charge the business a fee of $1,000 per year to use the land.

“I think it will really help clean up the area,” Public Works Group Manager Kim Woodbury said.

The dumping of shopping trolleys in car parks, streets and even in local waterways is a problem faced by most councils.

North Ryde resident Tom Robinson has also appealed to the Council over the issue.

“Something has to be done,” said Mr Robinson who has found up to 10 at a time dumped and vandalised trolleys near his home by Shrimptons Creek.

There’s been a reduction in dumped trolleys at Franklin’s in Cox’s Road since a coin system was installed almost three years ago.

Clr Terry Ryan: “Everyone should do it. I really think we should support the initiative ... to try and reduce this problem.”

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