UPDATE: Broken glass in bus shelters across Delahey and surrounding suburbs will not be replaced by the company contracted to maintain them, as part of its short-term fix to prevent further vandalism.
Adshel spokesman Tristan Tobin said the company would use mesh panels instead of glass on any new bus shelters being built in the area and the glass panels on any smashed shelters would not be replaced until the current spate of vandalism stops.
More than 60 glass bus shelters in the area had been deliberately targeted over the past six weeks, including multiple breakages in Delahey, Taylors Hill, Caroline Springs, Sydenham, Taylors Lakes and Kings Park.
“The recent vandalism in Delahey and the surrounding suburbs has been extreme,” Mr Tobin said.
“The clean-up and repair costs for the damages represent a significant financial burden to Adshel and we share the community’s frustrations and disappointment.
“It’s our experience that any glass recently replaced has been smashed again almost immediately. Our decision to delay repairs stems from our concerns for community safety regarding broken glass.
“Any future installation in the Delahey area will use a mesh design. However Adshel does this reluctantly, given that glass shelters offer better wind protection and a more pleasant commuter environment.”
New bus shelters being installed along Caroline Springs Boulevard and Gourlay Road in Caroline Springs will be of the new mesh design.
Mr Tobin said no taxpayer funds were used in the cleaning or fixing of shelters.
To report vandalism of bus shelters, call 1800 501 402.
