The grant, awarded by the Chewing Gum Task Force (CGTF), will fund a high-powered street washing machine designed to effectively remove gum from pavements.

Mayor Gillian McCollum welcomed the funding, highlighting the importance of clean streets for tourism and the local economy. “We want to do everything we can to make the area as attractive as possible,” she said.

Street cleaner Paul Agnew has already tested the machine on Bangor’s streets and praised its effectiveness. “The sweepers can’t lift the gum, but this machine heats to 110°C and removes it with high pressure, often without even needing special gum attachments,” he explained.

Residents also voiced support for the initiative. Bangor local Ernie Uprichard, 78, called gum litter “disgusting” and suggested banning it entirely. Meanwhile, Cecilia Adu, 75, felt the issue was less severe than in other UK cities but agreed the funding was worthwhile. Rain Barago-Maurer, 24, noted the problem was particularly visible near the marina and advocated for more disposal bins specifically for gum.

According to Keep Britain Tidy, UK councils spend an estimated £7 million annually removing chewing gum. The CGTF, backed by major gum manufacturers including Mars and Wrigley, is investing £10 million over five years to tackle the issue.

A study by Behaviour Change found gum littering dropped by up to 80% in areas where CGTF-funded clean-ups and signage were introduced. While Ards and North Down have no plans for signage, Mayor McCollum believes cleaner streets alone will encourage more responsible behaviour.

The new cleaning machine will be used across Bangor, Newtownards, Comber, Hollywood and Donaghadee.