By Carmelo Garcia – Local Democracy Reporter
There are concerns over the ‘unkempt’ state of the walkway on the site of the former home of Fred and Rose West in Gloucester.
The infamous home of the serial killers at 25 Cromwell Street was demolished after the extent of the couple’s horrific crimes came to light in the 1990s.
At least 12 murders were committed there between 1967 and 1987 by Fred West and his second wife.
The property was demolished by Gloucester City Council in 1996 and the land was turned into a walkway.
However, there are now concerns over how the area looks, with one city resident describing the walkway as looking ‘very overgrown and unkempt’.
“Given the sensitivity of the site, it’s not a great look,” they said.
Councillors believe the area should be maintained to the highest standard due to the site’s “deeply distressing history”.
Westgate Councillor Rebecca Trimnell (LD) is among those who believe the area should be “treated with the utmost dignity”.
“This site has a deeply distressing history and its association with those who tragically lost their lives as a result of the crimes committed by Fred and Rose West,” she said.
“There is a particular responsibility on us to ensure that this area is treated with the utmost dignity and respect, which means ensuring the environment around the site is maintained to the very highest standard possible.
“Unfortunately, I do not believe that is happening at present. We have a duty to remember those who suffered, to be mindful of their families, the residents who still live in the area and to ensure that this walkway is properly maintained and cared for.
“I am therefore calling on whoever has responsibility for this area to undertake an immediate walkthrough of the site, identify every issue requiring attention and ensure that the necessary maintenance and improvements are carried out without delay.”
Fellow Westgate councillor Pam Tracey (C) said the council should maintain the area to higher standard as a mark of respect and dignity for the victims.
“We should keep those gardens and the walkway tidy,” she said.
“I think in respect of the people who lost their lives and the trauma of it all.”
Gloucester City Council said it recognises the location’s significance and the importance of ensuring it is maintained appropriately.
“The walkway is maintained by Ubico on behalf of Gloucester City Council,” a council spokesperson said.
“During the summer months, grounds maintenance activity is focused on grass cutting, while more significant vegetation and hedge management is undertaken during the winter period, outside of bird nesting season.
“Ubico’s street cleaning teams operate daily across pedestrianised areas. Anyone who notices litter or spillages in a street or public space can report this via the Gloucester City Council website .
“The area remains on a regular maintenance schedule and will continue to be monitored as part of this programme.”