I AM writing in response to a number of letters over recent weeks and the articles in the September 22 edition of the Messenger regarding litter, weed spraying and the plans for the green space next to Station House on Stamford New Road, Altrincham.

I never cease to be amazed about the ways in which this local authority can contrive to waste money, either that which it has raised through council tax, or managed to obtain from other funding sources.

The article about 'improving' the green space on Stamford New Road is particularly stunning. It would appear that a healthy tree, that is still trying to grow, despite being cut down is to be used for a chain saw sculpture.

This was always an attractive and welcoming area. If you want such a sculpture, there are plenty of examples available to purchase, or even have designed yourself using wood from trees that have had to be cut down for valid reasons.

In addition, there are plenty of green space areas that have been left to rack and ruin that could be improved instead. How about the 'flower bed' on the corner of Stockport Road and Woodlands Road, or the ones on Stockport Road by the train and tram footbridge?

As for litter picking and weed suppression, it would appear this service has almost been completely stopped.

It is infuriating that the only services that seem to be available are those which are done by volunteers or the general public, surely this will only lead to massive expenditure requirements in the future, whereas if the small jobs could be attended to now, the roads and pathways would last longer.

This is a very short sighted view from our politicians and local authority officers.

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