Severn Trent Water (STW) is facing mounting criticism from residents following the felling of several mature trees in Allesley Green. STW say the work is necessary to connect new housing on the greenbelt to the network. However, many residents believe the works have been more intrusive and disruptive than they had initially feared.
The Allesley Green project has become a focal point for community concerns, prompting calls for transparent communication and responsible action from Severn Trent Water.
Many residents have voiced concerns about the level of disruption and mess the works are causing. They cite mud on adjacent highways, and blocked drains as two examples. Some residents can’t believe a new sewer could cause so much disruption and there have been false rumours that the works are to do with the installation of a new highway.
In response, councillors representing Woodlands Ward have written to STW to highlight these concerns. They propose a meeting between a Severn Trent representative, themselves, and leading members of the local resident's association to address concerns directly. They’ve also asked for assurances that STW will return the landscape to its original condition, reinstate trees, and clean up the mud and blocked drains caused by construction.
Commenting on the situation Woodlands Ward Councillor, Gary Ridley said: “We recognise this new sewer is only necessary because Labour councillors approved building on adjacent greenbelt sites. But that doesn’t mean that existing residents should be expected to put up with unlimited disruption and the loss of valuable mature trees. Many people feel that these works have been much more disruptive than anticipated so we’re calling on STW to come to the table and discuss a way forward.”
Fellow Woodlands Ward Councillor Peter Male said: “We’ve been inundated with calls from residents about the problems at Allesley Green. The works have led to blocked drains and mud on the roads which is creating a real hazard. I’ve been speaking to officers at the Council about how this can be addressed, but the taxpayer must not foot the bill for this muddy mayhem.”
Councillor Julia Lepoidevin said: “There is mounting discontent in Allesley Green over the way these works have been undertaken. STWs corporate mantra is 'Doing the right thing: The Severn Trent Way,'. Well, this is the time for them to live up to that.”
The councillors also suggest that Severn Trent Water issue fresh communication to residents and the wider public, reassuring them of the organisation's intentions, quashing any rumours.
