RESIDENTS have called for change as they say visitors to a park are using the area behind a sewage pump as an “informal toilet”.
A petition has been started calling for toilets to be installed at New Street Play Area in Upton upon Severn.
Residents are also asking for more seating, sheltered areas, and more conveniently located bins.
“At present, some visitors are resorting to using areas behind the nearby Severn Trent pumping infrastructure as an informal toilet area,” a spokesperson for the petition said.
“This is not an appropriate situation beside a children’s recreation space and raises clear concerns about hygiene, dignity and the suitability of the facilities available to the public.”
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Councillor supports campaign
SUPPORT: Councillor Martin Allen has supported the petition for improvement to park facilities (Image: Submitted)
Councillor Martin Allen, who represents the town on Malvern Hills District Council and Worcestershire County Council, has supported the campaign.
He has urged Upton-upon-Severn Town Council to seek additional funding to improve facilities.
“A lot of young toddlers use this wonderful play park but it’s a long way to take them to the toilet on Hanley Road,” Cllr Allen said.
“We bring our own grandchildren and it’s just too far.
“I fully understand the problem is cost but it’s worth the town council looking at it again.
“Malvern Hills District Council has got some money to the throw around. The town council should try and take advantage of that.”
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Town council’s response
Councillor Jeremy Owenson, mayor of the town, said the park was a source of pride for the town council, particularly following recent upgrades.
He said the council would welcome support to make further improvements.
PRIDE: Councillor Jeremy Owenson, mayor of Upton upon Severn, said the town council was proud of the New Street Play Area (Image: Submitted)
“The New Street Play area is something Upton Town Council are extremely proud of,” he said.
“Last year, we upgraded the skate park, and we have installed concrete table tennis tables more recently.
“Facilities include play areas and basketball courts, with direct access to the town playing fields.
“We are always looking for opportunities and funding to improve this area, and other town council owned facilities.
“Malvern Hills District Council do provide two public toilet facilities in town with the Hanley Road Car Park toilets, a short five-minute walk from the play area.
“Upton Town Council continue to support this provision, and if the opportunity arises, would support additional toilets at the New Street Play Area.”
