Over recent weeks, I have been contacted by many local businesses and people who are concerned about the condition of the pavements in The Strand.
A clean, well-maintained town centre is important for everyone. Local businesses work incredibly hard to make The Strand an attractive and welcoming place to visit, but they should not be left to clean public pavements themselves because the current arrangements are falling short.
We all pay our council tax, and businesses contribute through their business rates. In return, it is only right that we expect our town centre to be maintained to a high standard. A well-looked-after public space encourages people to take pride in their surroundings and helps support local trade.
As a result, I have written to the Chief Executive of East Devon District Council asking what action is being taken to improve the situation. I have asked for details of the current cleaning arrangements, whether the Council believes they are meeting the standard that people should reasonably expect, and what plans are in place to improve the service.
I will continue to press for answers on behalf of our community and will provide an update as soon as I receive a response.
You can read my letter to the Chief Executive of East Devon District Council below.