By Carmelo Garcia – Local Democracy Reporter
Questions must be answered over the design and workmanship of the resurfacing of the Strand area of Cheltenham High Street.
That is the view of the spa town’s MP Max Wilkinson who has long campaigned for an end to the practice of “tarmac cowpat” repairs in Cheltenham – the practice of utility firms and highways workers of replacing stone slabs or pavement with asphalt.
The Strand was resurfaced by Gloucestershire County Council as part of moves to improve the town centre and it was given a final finish of asphalt which is of a “natural” colour similar to that in Cambray Place.
However, there are concerns over the quality of the workmanship which has left many areas with “ripples” and footprints from work boots can be seen in several areas.
The colour has also faded substantially in the well-trodden parts of it since it was completed before the Cheltenham Festival in March.
And the colour seems to have faded substantially in the well-trodden parts of it since it was completed before the Cheltenham Festival in March.
Mr Wilkinson says Cheltenham’s appearance is a key part of its heritage and the town’s appeal. And the Liberal Democrat is also advocating for a “joined-up vision” for the town centre once local government is reorganised in Gloucestershire.
“I’ve long argued for an end to what I’ve branded ‘tarmac cowpat’ repairs in our town centre,” he said.
“It’s embarrassing, bad for business and it has no place here.
“Although the work at the Strand has replaced a badly outdated surface and some tarmac cow pats, questions must be answered about design and workmanship.
“Cheltenham’s appearance is a key part of its heritage and the town’s appeal.
“The County Council has proven it can listen as part of the recent discussions about the Promenade – it should listen in this case too.
“And when our two local councils are abolished, the new unitary authority needs a proper joined-up vision for our town centre.”
Gloucestershire County Council has been approached for comment.