Green Councillors’ Update: July 2026

The decision to close and sell St Peters Court remains an incredibly sad situation for those who call it home, and we know many residents are anxious about the future. However, we have been pleased to hear some positive feedback about the support being provided. Residents are receiving dedicated help with the moving process, and the compensation arrangements should help make what is already a difficult transition a little easier.
There is also some good news regarding the path by the brook. Work is due to begin in mid-July to level and resurface the path, making it safer and more accessible. Some of the existing cobbles will be used along the edge to help retain the character of the area, railings will be repaired and repainted, new lighting installed, and planters added. This project was delayed by flooding and land ownership being unclear. This has been something many of us have been pushing to see completed and it will be great to see some pride restored to an area that has become increasingly shabby and run down over recent years.
Laurie recently joined members of the flood group and other volunteers for another community tidy-up around the brook. A huge thank you to everyone who gave up their time to help. The flood group continues to do fantastic work, and we support their efforts however we can.
At the time of writing a decision from Government on what the new councils will look like is expected on 16th July. As we have said previously, there has been no direct public vote on these proposals and the final decision rests with ministers. At this stage we simply do not know whether the Government will favour the County Council proposal, the city proposal, a North/City/South arrangement, or something different altogether.
Finally, we recently raised concerns about anti-social behaviour at Full Council. Whilst these can often be complex cases involving many different agencies, we remain concerned that victims can be left feeling let down by a system that is slow and difficult to navigate. People deserve to feel safe in their own homes, and we will continue pushing for improvements wherever possible.
David Infield, Andy Haynes, Laurie Needham, Sandra Woodward, Chris O’Neill