AS beleaguered retailers struggle to make the most of Christmas trade, TAMS Minister Shane Rattenbury has warned them that city rangers will be on the lookout for abandoned shopping trolleys.

“At least two shopping trolley collections will be conducted in the lead up to Christmas to pick up shopping trolleys removed from shopping centre precincts in Canberra’s north, as well as around the city centre,” he says.

“Prior to each collection day, retailers are given two days warning to advise them that trolleys located outside shopping precinct areas in parkland, open spaces, waterways or on playing fields will be impounded.

“Abandoned trolleys have a direct cost to retailers as there is a fee of $112.50 to retrieve a trolley that has been impounded.

“Not only do shopping trolleys have the potential to create safety hazards, but they are an eyesore and major contributor to the pollution of our natural environment, so it is important that all retailers have adequate collection services in place to help reduce the number of trolleys littering the ACT.

“It is also important for members of the public to take responsibility for returning trolleys to designated areas after use. Under the Litter Act 2004 fines can apply for taking, using or leaving a shopping trolley outside a shopping centre precinct.

“The end of the year is always a busy time at shopping precincts with the community preparing for gatherings with family and friends. I encourage the public to help keep Canberra’s streets clear of trolleys this Christmas and New Year by returning trolleys to the bays provided.

“City rangers will continue the search for wayward shopping trolleys after Christmas with further collection days scheduled to take place in the New Year. Members of the community are reminded that they can report abandoned trolleys to Canberra Connect on 13 22 81.”