Cambridge’s Green Party councillors are taking a stand against junk food advertising on bus shelters, calling for action that benefits both public health and the environment.
On Tuesday 16th December, Cllr Elliot Tong (Green, Abbey) and Cllr Peter Rees (Green, Newnham) will present a motion to Cambridgeshire County Council urging a clear plan to remove fast food adverts from bus shelters. The motion proposes redirecting advertising revenue towards local priorities such as road and pavement repairs.
“Back in 2022, the council pledged to tackle junk food advertising,” said Cllr Tong. “Progress has stalled due to unclear responsibilities between local authorities. It’s time the council takes decisive action.”
The Greens have been working with Cambridge City Council and the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority to clarify management of bus shelters. A recent workshop revealed that outdated agreements have caused confusion and untapped revenue.
Cllr Rees added, “Fast food adverts often mislead consumers, harm our health, and damage the environment. Public advertising space should reflect council values, not promote harmful products.”
He suggested replacing junk food ads with messages supporting local charities, youth employment, or health campaigns.
The Greens’ motion calls for all relevant councils and authorities to work together to establish clear responsibilities for bus shelters and advertising, ensuring public spaces are used in ways that support the community.
This initiative reflects the Greens’ wider commitment to healthier, sustainable communities and makes public spaces serve the people of Cambridgeshire.
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