FOOTPATH CLEAN-UP FOLLOWS COMPLAINTS

A neglected footpath in Stone has been transformed after a multi-agency operation took place on Tuesday (Dec 18) to clean up its appearance.

Stone Parish Council staff joined Community Warden Christine Bates and PCSO Andy Simpson to remove over 15 bags of litter, broken glass and debris from the footpath, which stretches from Hayes Road to Elm Road, following numerous complaints from local residents.

Local resident Carole Fordham expressed her delight at this action after previously experiencing problems first hand when her foot was cut by a piece of broken glass.

She said,
“I have reported the mess in the alley way a number of times but nothing ever seems to be done about it and in the end you give up trying. Groups congregate and then leave a trail of beer cans and broken glass which is obviously dangerous for dogs and the school children who use the alley to get to St Mary’s.”

“There has been a pile of household rubbish at the foot of the dog bin since the beginning of December and no-one has been along to clear it.”

Although not the parish council’s responsibility, council grounds staff partnered up with the neighbourhood policing team for the benefit of local residents who are increasingly frustrated by the lack of proper maintenance.

Parish Council officers are now liaising with officers at Dartford Borough Council to establish the required level of maintenance to ensure that the footpath remains clear.