By Carmelo Garcia – Local Democracy Reporter
There is relief that a Gloucester street dubbed ‘Little Beirut’ is now looking more like ‘Legoland’ after the large concrete blocks placed to stop illegal parking were painted dark green.
The blocks were installed to stop cars mounting the pavement in Mount Street and parking on the grass earlier this month.
The issue of parking on that land has been an issue for many years, according to residents.
But concerns were raised that the blocks were an eyesore and should be removed as soon as a long term solution is found to tackle the parking problem.
Councillor Rebecca Trimnell (LD, Hempsted and Westgate), who represents the area at Gloucestershire County Council, said at the time that the move to install the blocks was extremely disrespectful to residents.
She said people were likening it to the Lebanese capital.
The blocks were shortly after marked with red crosses but now the council has painted them completely dark green.
Cllr Trimnell said: “I do believe the simple job of painting these concrete blocks has improved them greatly.
“I am now hoping it won’t take too long for a permanent solution.
This has also been welcomed by residents according to Cllr Trimnell who said a one told her: “They look like Duplo bricks… but I like it more than anti-tank concrete blocks… I’d rather live in Legoland than little Beirut”.
The County Council said previously that they installed the blocks after police reports that untaxed vehicles were being parked illegally on the grass verge at Mount Street.
Shire Hall chiefs say the temporary measure is designed to prevent further misuse until they come up with a permanent solution.
“We are actively working with Cllr Trimnell and the local residents to find a long-term solution for the site which is both fit for purpose and suitable to best meet the needs of the community,” finance assets and transformation cabinet member Colin Hay (LD, All Saints and Oakley) said last week.