The two November GSV working parties and the November Drop-In have been cancelled because of lockdown restrictions. We hope we will be back to ‘normal’ activities next month.
Author: David Page 9 of 24
The photo shows what resulted from some work carried out at Pittville Gates by Severn Trent. Paving slabs and granite setts, paid for by money raised by Friends of Pittville, were removed and replaced by tarmac infill at the end of the work. This severely compromises the architect designed paving pattern and is unacceptable. Following lobbying of Gloucestershire Highways, helped by Cllr John Payne, and of Severn Trent by local resident, Gareth Swain, the latest news is that Seven Trent will reinstate the original design and have sourced the necessary materials.
We have now heard that it is planned to carry out the work on 13 November.
The work was carried out but unfortunately not to the standard expected.
The setts are a different design and not securely laid. Two setts have been laid below the hydrant cover rather than a paving slab being cut to fit round the cover. The Gloucestershire Highways inspector agreed the work is substandard and has ‘issued a defect’ to Severn Trent. We await further developments.
The Park first received a Green Flag award and Green Heritage status in 2016. Following a recent review it was decided that the awards would be renewed for yet another year. Working in partnership with the CBC Green Space team the Friends of Pittville volunteers have made a major contribution to this success.
The Green Space Volunteers (working in small socially-distancing groups) have achieved a great deal in the last 2 months, with an average of 26 people working on each occasion. Jobs have included pruning shrubs round the Scout Hut and a tree canopy near the Central Cross Cafe, edging paths and cleaning around benches, clearing the path behind Dunalley school and thinning out the small trees there, spreading bark on the path near Tommy Taylors Lane, weeding and pruning shrubs near the West Bridge, clearing the snowdrop bank on the west side ready for spring, weeding the aviary beds, clearing up at Pittville Gates, and litter picking. In addition work has continued on the 2 projects, the rockery near the play area and Bed 38 (at the Wellington Road/Evesham Road corner), removing weeds and unwanted growth ready for replanting beginning in November.
The badly leaning cherry tree in Bed 38, by Wellington Road, has been removed. It will be replaced by 3 cherry trees, one of which will carry the memorial plaque from the old tree. After yet more weeding the bed will be replanted with the 3 trees and a selection of shrubs with the aim of creating an attractive corner at all times of the year. The planting is being funded by Friends of Pittville.
