Around the ward

I organised a meeting with Lingen Avenue and Geoffrey Avenue residents and a Traffic Management Officer from Herefordshire Council to look at what could be done to stop larger vehicles tearing up the verges on those roads. We came up with a couple of ideas that can be implemented quickly and a couple more that will require some funding to be found in the future.

I was pretty shocked to find that Herefordshire Council is refusing to fund the replacement of some street trees that had to be felled for safety. I’m talking to the tree warden network about sourcing some saplings but I will be lobbying Herefordshire Council to find some funding for, at least, replacement trees.

Balfour Beatty have patched a few of the worst potholes in the ward. If you spot a pothole you can report it on the council’s website or let me know and I’ll report it and keep an eye on it until it is done.

At the councils

I attended a full meeting of Herefordshire Council. The LibDems introduced a motion calling on the council to take some simple steps to make sure drains and gullys are cleared and to communicate better with the public and city, town and parish councils about when drains have been cleaned. I’m pleased to say that this was supported across the council and we’re already seeing positive steps taken by the council. You can read the reports and watch a recording of this meeting on Herefordshire Council’s website.

I attended a meeting of the Community Development Committee at Hereford City Council. We were considering grant applications from local groups. The council hasn’t published the list of grants awarded but as soon as it does, I’ll update you here.

I also attended a meeting of Hereford City Youth Council. The young people have been surveying other young people across the city about their priorities. This work should help to shape the Youth Council’s work over the coming months.

Out and about

I went to an event at the Courtyard to premiere a new film about fostering in Herefordshire. It’s a beautifully made and very short film that I have embedded at the top of this post. I got the chance to talk to foster carers from across the county and hear their stories about the young people they care for and the difference that fostering makes. The council is looking to recruit more foster carers. It’s a vital public service and if it’s something you would consider, please get in touch with the council now.

I also attended the Local Government Association Conference in Harrogate. It was really good to talk to councillors from many different councils across England and to hear how different areas are approaching similar challenges.