Reporting App Issues
I’m disappointed to note that the tree on the corner of Oulton Avenue and Gatesheath Drive has not been cut back despite the fact it is obscuring the view of drivers at the junction.
It is concerning it takes so long for the majority of the issues that both residents and I report around Upton to be actioned.
It appears that the reporting app is not functioning correctly and this is being investigated. I can also report issues using the councillor portal and residents can use the website however these routes are far more cumbersome and means we cannot report in real time.
Dale Camp Update
I’m pleased to pass on the information from the Defence Infrastructure Organisation that the barracks at Dale Camp will not be sold before 2029.
This is very good news for Upton and for Chester and I look forward to welcoming more of our Armed Services as part of our community .
Youth Club Building Update
After a wait of a few weeks I have received an update on the youth club building from CWaC.
You will notice that Cheshire Fire Authority (CFA) has registered the building for attention. This has happened as a result of PCSO George and me working with CFA because we are so concerned about the danger to individuals and our community.
I have asked for the timescales of the disposal process of the building.
Here is the council officer’s reply to me.
‘Thank you for your email and apologies for the delayed response. I am proposing to recommend that the Council seeks to dispose of its interest in this site as I am not aware of any firm proposals for any alternative use. In the meantime I have been advised that the fire service have been asked to add the building to their assets at risk of arson schedule which means that it will be included in regular inspections with the details of our emergency response team (Qwest/Equans) provided as the call out contacts.’
Ukraine Support
Many of our residents in the Upton, Newton, Hoole and other areas on this side of Chester are hosting families from Ukraine.
Upton United Reform Church is very supportive and holds regular coffee and chat mornings for the visitors and hosts.
If you know anyone settling in or hosting and they would like support and to meet other Ukrainians please ask them come along to the regular coffee and chat mornings held
every Tuesday 10am – 12noon
Upton URC, 44 Heath Road, Upton, CH2 1HX
New Bins Arriving
Residents in Upton are beginning to receive their new bins I have received many questions and complaints about the delivery of the bins so here’s the link which members may find useful
https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/residents/waste-and-recycling/your-bin-collection
Lodge Gardens
I was delighted that work had begun on Lodge Gardens with the reduction of the dead tree. It’s been left deliberately at this height to encourage wild life. The chippings will be used on the flower beds and the logs as seats for smaller people. The area around the decaying tree will be sown with poppies to complement the Silent Soldier.
Since this work took place I have been disappointed to learn that to ensure further work happens I will have to use my ward budget to pay contractors. The green spaces teams have insufficient man power and equipment and Upton is obviously not a priority for the local authority. I think this is reflected in many of the CWaC green spaces in the ward. The maintenance in the Cockpit is very good example. I have contacted the Head of service and await a positive reply.
BT Frustrations
I am sorry to note that BT have still not filled in the holes on the corners of Acres Lane and Marlow Avenue. This is despite them having been chased several times by highways. It’s really not acceptable that a company treats the community in this manner. I am following this up.
Speed Watch
Thanks to the young people and PCSO George and Upton Speed Watch for their great community work. Its a great shame that some drivers don’t respond to the speed signs in Upton especially the very obvious roundels on Wealstone Lane.
Discarded NO Containers
I understand residents are concerned about the number of discarded nitrous oxide containers in certain areas in Upton.
Please report or https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/residents/streets-and-open-spaces/street-cleaning.aspx
No.26 and No.2 Bus Update
I have received a response to my query about the No 26 bus. I would like to say a huge thank you to the CWaC officer who took time to reply on a Sunday morning. Over and above I’d say. Thank you John.
Here is the reply
‘I can confirm that we have tendered a revised timetable for service 26, and this was awarded to Stagecoach last Friday. Arrowebrook finish on Friday 1st July, and the new service will start on Monday 4th July. There will be slightly fewer journeys which may not suit everyone, but is the best that the Council can afford given budgetary pressures and poor passenger recovery overall post pandemic – particularly among concessionary pass holders. Please see working timetable attached for your information – we will produce paper timetables in the next few days for distribution to customers.
With regard to service 2, this requires double deckers on certain journeys as it carries large numbers of schoolchildren between Elton and Helsby High School which is an important source of income. You will be aware of the low bridge issue at Bache.’
Thank You Volunteers!
A huge thank you to everyone who has worked so hard on two Saturdays painting the Cheshire railings at Upton Baptist Church. What a difference the work has made to the corner of Flag Lane South.
Sanctuary Housing and Zoo Recovery Corridor
I have contacted Sanctuary Housing about the small play area on Laurel Bank Close to enquire what plans there may be and to see if there is an interest from Sanctuary and their tenants to engage with the Zoo’s recovery corridor scheme. It seems to me this would be an ideal opportunity for the community in the area. I will keep you informed.
Ark Hopefully to be Rehoused
Many Upton residents and people across Chester are disappointed that the ark on the roundabout to the entrance of the Zoo is to be removed simply because it has fallen into disrepair. I have asked ask the local authority to arrange the repair of this iconic little piece of Upton so it can remain for our community and visitors to the Zoo to enjoy.
Jill
