Council 'sorry' for Central Park revamp delays

BOSSES RECOGNISE FRUSTRATION FROM LOCAL RESIDENTS

- WILLIAM TELFORD

COUNCIL chiefs have said sorry for delays to the £3m revamp of Central Park. The authority also said it understands why people have been left fedup by the length of time the project has taken and the mess caused – but it says the scheme is back on track and targeted for completion next spring.

Plymouth City Council has issued an update on the works ahead of a crucial security panel meeting looking into the project and a 3,000-signature petition complaining about delays and mess.

The upgrade was branded a “shambles” a “moonscape” and an “eyesore” by residents.

Petitioners said: “Our beautiful Central Park has been disrupted and spoiled by the Ponds Project. It has gone on for far too long and made too much mess. Our park should inspire tranquillity, not frustration.”

The petition, which collected names during the summer, is now due to be looked at by the council’s housing and community service security panel today.

In documents the council admits: “At the time the petition signatures were collected it is fully understood why people were dissatisfied with the project and condition of the park.”