Poundland told to show 'local pride' with repairs

Poundland says its facilities team is aware of the need to make repairs

Poundland has been told to "show some local pride" by a councillor when it repairs a broken shop front window and removes graffiti from one of its Surrey stores.

The chain has been issued with a community protection warning by Elmbridge Borough Council (EBC) after ignoring requests to address the eyesores in East Molesey.

Conservative councillor, Steve Bax, said: "They are giving the impression they are not bothered."

Poundland says its facilities team is aware of the need to make repairs, but the graffiti is serious has been etched in the glass with acid.

Under community protection warnings, £100 fines can be issued in the first instance.

If no action is taken, prosecutions can begin with a maximum fine of up to £20,000, the Local Democracy Reporting Service says.

Bax added: "When we have got Manor Road residents caring for the planters so brilliantly and doing their best to lift up the high street, we need this retailer to show some local pride too."

The council said the store had tried to clean the windows professionally but could not remove the graffiti.

Poundland said it was in the process of getting specialist quotes for the work and, once approved, it would be completed as soon as possible.