Green Party Councillors Update

Since the last issue we have been continuing to press for more action around the issues with the brook. We are pleased to see that the improved flood alert system is now live. The previous system gave alerts for the River Wreake. The new gauges that have been installed will give more accurate alerts for the Barkby Brook, which runs through the centre of Syston. The alerts can be received by either text, email or a phone call. Residents can register directly by calling Floodline on 0345 988 1188, or visiting https://www.gov.uk/sign-up-for-flood-warnings.
We were very concerned about the maintenance around the brook. The growth of trees, weeds and bushes along Brookside is out of control and is making the area look neglected. This is a shame when people have worked hard to brighten the area with the planters along the railings and in an area so prominent in the town.
We pushed for this to be tidied back as soon as possible and maintained better in future and were pleased to see that the Environment Agency began to clear some of the vegetation and trees within the channel in mid-august. They have confirmed that desilting will take place before the end of this year and that they will undertake tree and bush cut back in the brook from Pembrooke Avenue to Victoria street. Charnwood have also said that they will do some further tidying up of the overgrown shrubs and weeds etc along the footpaths on Brookside.
We have also escalated the need for the footpaths here to be fixed. The broken and uneven surfaces are becoming a danger, as well as adding to the run-down appearance. There were plans drawn up in 2022 to resurface this area and install new seating and planters but these were put on hold after the flooding. We are now pressing for this to come forward as a priority. Hopefully, we will see some improvements here soon.
Laurie Needham, Andy Haynes, David Infield, Chris O’Neill, & Sandra Woodward – Green Party councillors for Syston and surrounding villages.