Conservative calls for proper management of neglected estate

Conservative Councillor Ashley Fox is stepping up a campaign by residents to get Council contractors to properly maintain landscaping on Eastfield Estate, Westbury on Trym.

A 75-name petition and statement is to be presented by Cllr Fox at today's meeting of Full Council, calling for urgent action to be taken to improve the grounds maintenance contracts at this location.

Whilst trees and shrubs used to be trimmed twice a year, many local people have complained to the Council's Parks and Leisure Department that Council contractors are not pruning this greenery adequately or frequently enough.

As a result, the estate is being left in an appalling state, with overgrowing branches and vegetation causing a public nuisance and safety hazards to those living in or visiting the area.

Cllr Fox (Con, Westbury on Trym) said: "The current grounds maintenance contracts in place for Eastfield Estate are clearly inadequate.

"Shrubs and Pyracantha bushes - which really need to be cut back in height and width regularly - are simply being left to grow ever upwards. This is causing problems of overshadowing of pathways and blocking out of light for adjoining properties.

"Such neglect also raises serious security and safety issues for people walking about the estate.

"I share residents' concerns and together we are petitioning for a return to bi-annual pruning and calling on the Executive Member to urgently look into this matter."

Back to Local News Index 11 September 2007