Following complaints from the Woodthorpe area about its general upkeep, I met with localCouncillors (for Richmond Ward), Acis, Streets Ahead and the Council for a walkabout this week. I’ve noticed the ongoing problems of litter, grass not being cut, vandalism to street signs and the obvious state of the roads and the pavements. The area is in the middle of Streets Ahead work and has disrupted the general grass-cutting, as well as causing some problems on the pavements and verges.

The road resurfacing will be completed by Christmas and Streets Ahead are also considering areas for ‘compacted’ standing in place of some of the grass verges –  which means that cars will be able to park without causing big grooves in the grass but water will still be able to drain away.

I’ve also reported fly-tipping and was pleased to see that it had been quickly removed – with a street clean also scheduled. I am told that the area is swept every 12 weeks, but residents can report any issues relating to fly-tipping or rubbish directly to Streets Ahead on 0114 273 4567 and it will be cleared within ten working days.

ACIS, as landlord for some of the property in the area, are currently running a ‘Best Garden’ competition and all residents should have had a letter inviting them to participate. They also run a garden pledge scheme for anyone really struggling to maintain their garden, though this is currently very oversubscribed.