Photo: Ethan Doyle White / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Residents have contacted me about litter, overflowing bins and the general condition of St Mary’s Gardens. I raised their concerns with council officers and asked what could be done to improve the upkeep of the park.

The council says the park is scheduled for cleansing and bin emptying on Mondays, and that missed collections are followed up. An on-site review with council and Serco staff was arranged for 23 October to discuss standards. I’m seeking an update on the outcome.

The council is also working to agree clearer maintenance arrangements with Garden Museum volunteers. They planned a pre-winter tidy-up and other improvements. I’ll continue to follow up so residents can see whether these steps lead to a better maintained park.