- Green Party Councillor Stuart Allen and campaigner Kay Mitchell are calling for urgent repairs to the dangerously damaged footpaths in Chalkwell Park, citing risks to children, wheelchair users, and other visitors.
- Years of underfunding and increased vehicle traffic through the park are highlighted as key factors contributing to the poor condition of the paths.
- They are working with residents and council officials to make the park safe and accessible for everyone.
Green Party Councillor Stuart Allen and local campaigner Kay Mitchell are urging the council to take immediate action following residents’ complaints about the poor condition of footpaths in Chalkwell Park.
Years of neglect and an increase in vehicular traffic have left the footpaths riddled with potholes and significant damage, prompting concerns about public safety.
“The footpath coming from Leigh Road is particularly concerning, but all of Chalkwell Park’s paths need repairs. They’re so bad that, in some cases, a child could fall into the potholes filled with standing water.
“There are also serious risks for less mobile individuals. For example, navigating these holes and cracks in a wheelchair would be incredibly dangerous.”
Kay Mitchell
Green Party Campaigner
Cllr Stuart Allen shared his concerns:
“I’m deeply worried about the state of our park footpaths and have already raised this issue with council staff. It’s only a matter of time before someone is seriously injured. Across Southend, years of chronic underfunding by the Government have left our public spaces in disrepair. The ongoing effects of austerity are still evident in our local services.”
A Leigh resident also highlighted an additional concern about vehicles damaging the paths:
“I’ve noticed more cars driving through the park—heading to the café, cricket club, or basketball courts. Parks should be spaces where children can play freely and people can relax without worrying about traffic. Instead, park users are forced to gather children and leash dogs every time a car passes. It’s time to reclaim these spaces for pedestrians and families, not vehicles.”
Cllr Allen and Kay Mitchell are committed to working alongside residents and council officials to ensure Chalkwell Park becomes a safe and welcoming space for everyone.
– ENDS –