FED up residents have joined forces in a bid to get grotspots near their Urmston homes spruced up.

More than 40 residents from Balfour Road and the surrounding roads have signed a petition demanding action.

They say the car park at the rear of Curzon Cinema is a potholed mess and in an 'appalling condition.'

Litter around the shops at Princess Road has been a long-standing problem - but residents concede it is an issue the council has addressed recently with more regular clean ups.

Another gripe is dog fouling near the shops and on land opposite Balfour Road.

As well as sending the petition in to the council they have appealed to the Grotspots campaign to help them.

Resident Cath Craine, says: "The car park is in an appalling condition. It is unsightly with big pot holes in it.

"It is unlit so it is not used at night. Instead people park on the road, mounting the pavements and causing safety and traffic problems. There is often nowhere for local residents to park.

"There is an area with trees on Balfour Road which is used as a dogs' toilet. We have also had problems with dog excrement at Princess Road shops.

"The litter problem at the shops had been building up for the last two years but recently the council has been cleaning it up and it has improved."

Geoff Marsh, Trafford Council's head of environmental services, told SUM: "We are already looking at this whole area and an officer will visit Mrs Craine to discuss things with her. We are looking at increasing the cleaning frequency in the area.

"The car park is owned by the cinema and we will be in touch with the company."

The residents are asking for the car park to be resurfaced, provided with lighting and its appearance improved by planting bushes. But Geoff points out the council is unable to compel a private owner to do this.

Other Grotspots highlighted this week include:

A neglected small croft area down a passage between the chemist and Chinese chip shop, at The Quadrant, Firswood. A reader is calling for it be be given a 'makeover'.

Geoff says: "We will investigate ownership and encourage the owners to maintain it."

Litter problems can be reported to the council on 912 3604. People can also contact Trafford Direct 2000 on 912 2000, which provides information and help on a range of council services.

Tell SUM about problem areas - please WRITE to Grotspots, Sale and Altrincham Messenger, Brindley House, Ashton Lane, Sale M33 6TP; or FAX us on 908 3403. Please give precise and detailed locations and say if you would not want your name included in an article.

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