A Member of Parliament has likened the graffiti he encounters during his journey through London to a scene straight out of a Batman movie.
Dr. Neil Hudson, the Conservative MP representing Epping Forest in Essex, remarked that the condition of the interiors of the Underground’s Central Line carriages has been deteriorating significantly.
“It gives you the sensation of being in the midst of a Batman film; you’re riding a train through Gotham City instead of Epping Forest,” he commented.
Transport for London (TfL) stated that they are removing over 2,000 spray-painted tags, which are essentially graffiti signatures, every week from Central Line trains.
Gotham City, known from the Batman films, is often portrayed as a perilous place rife with crime.
TfL mentioned that due to budget constraints, they cannot remove trains from service during peak hours. However, Hudson expressed the need for a stronger emphasis on deterring criminal activities.
He observed that the absence of a responsive approach to anti-social conduct makes people feel unsafe, emphasizing that action is needed.
“There’s no CCTV in place, nor are there signs or stickers warning offenders of potential prosecution,” he noted.
Hudson also pointed out that prioritization is crucial, citing that the Mayor of London allocated over £6 million to rebranding the London Overground while everyday commuters are voicing a preference for reliable, clean, and safe trains free of graffiti.
TfL also asserted that they are actively removing 2,000 tags weekly around the Bakerloo line as part of their efforts.
A spokesperson for TfL explained, “We have initiated an enhanced cleaning program in direct response to the marked increase in graffiti incidents.”
They added, “Previously, we would take trains out of service immediately upon vandalism, but due to the limited availability of older trains, this is now challenging without disrupting service.”
“This underlines the necessity for securing investment in the Tube system to upgrade and replace trains, ensuring we provide a transport network that meets the expectations of both Londoners and visitors alike.”
