Friends group slams council over continued delay in grass cutting

Brunswick Park, in Wednesbury, fell into disrepair after Sandwell Council suspended its grounds maintenance teams over coronavirus.

The council announced it was to restart the service last week. The grass has now been cut at Brunswick Park.

Jill Turner, secretary of the Friends of Brunswick Park, says the grass became overgrown and littered with dog mess.

Speaking yesterday before it was cleaned up, she said: "It is in a disgusting state. The bins haven't been emptied. Everyone is letting their dogs run free.. There is dog poo everywhere."

The council suspended grass cutting while grounds maintenance staff were redeployed to other roles to help with the Covid-19 pandemic.

Sandwell Council was approached for comment.

Wednesbury North Councillor Elaine Costigan said: "The email I had back [from the council] was that staff had been on other duties but it will get done as soon as possible.

"People want to see the park back to its old self."

Announcing the return of grass cutting last week, Sandwell Council's deputy leader Maria Crompton said: "Many of our grounds maintenance staff have been redeployed during the coronavirus crisis to fulfil really vital roles and I’m sure people understand we have had to prioritise.

"Some will have to continue to support those services. However, the council is also determined to get services up and running when and where we can."