Weed clearing event to be held in Lancaster

Dorrington Road resident Gavin Greenwood took this photo of the pavement by his house.

Over the next two weekends, Havelock Street in Bowerham will become a hive of activity as local people get to grips with the weeds growing along the road and paths.

This is in response to concerns from some of the residents.

Sue Winterbottom said: “The back alley next to my yard is an utter disgrace. My grandsons have just got to the age where they want to play out.

Sue Winterbottom's grandsons Rhys and Jake helping clear the weeds.

“It would be lovely if the whole backs could look like this. Let’s get back to the old days where people took pride of the back yards and let the children play.”

Ward councillor Oscar Thynne said: “Cuts from central government have made it increasingly difficult for the city council to maintain vital services without making cuts to other services.

“Weed spraying is such a service, however, this does not mean our streets must fall into such an untidy state.

“As a new city councillor, I was approached by a resident and informed about Havelock Street. I immediately I got to work planning street clearing sessions.

“This is an opportunity for neighbours and volunteers from within our council ward community to come together, taking pride in our streets. I urge fellow ward residents to come for an hour or so to help.

“I will also be available, in between weeding, to listen to any local concerns.”

Lancaster City Council has supported the sessions by helping promote the events, supplying litter picking equipment and collecting the bags of waste at the end of the sessions.

Coun David Smith, cabinet member with responsibility for environmental services, said: “The city council is always more than happy to support local residents wanting to put some pride back into where they live, work and play with the free loan of litter picking equipment as has been requested on this particular occasion.

“Anyone wanting to join their neighbours, friends and family in making a difference to their community by organising a clean-up will always get help from the council to get you started.

“As well as offering the free loan of all the equipment and taking away the litter collected at the end of the day, you will also be given the information you need to carry out a safe, successful and worthwhile event.

“Simply call the council on 01524 582454 or email [email protected] with your proposal and requirements.”

If you want to join the street clean, meet in Havelock Street at 10am on Sunday July 17 or Saturday July 23.