A COUNCILLOR says residents “deserve clarity” on plans for a new pump track at Chasewater.
A local campaign has taken place in a bid to get the facility – which can be used by bikes and scooters – built.
But while Staffordshire County Council has said they are supportive of the idea of a track and the submission of a Community Infrastructure Levy funding bid to Lichfield District Council, confirmation it will be included in any formal plans has yet to be made.
Cllr Andrew Clissett, Reform UK member for Burntwood North, said that while he was pleased to see progress, more detail was needed.
He said:
“The county council has confirmed in writing that they are supportive in principle of a pump track at Chasewater. However, they state they cannot confirm its final inclusion or exact location until feasibility and masterplanning work is completed, which they are indicating will be late next year.
“That is the current official position, but residents deserve more than vague timelines and silence. If the county council supports this in principle, then the county council must now show leadership and urgency.
“As the local county councillor, I am calling on Staffordshire County Council to publish a clear timetable for the Chasewater masterplanning process as it relates to the pump track, including when feasibility work will conclude, when public consultation will take place and when decisions will be made.
“It must also confirm who is accountable for progressing this element of the plan and provide regular public updates.
“Young people and families have waited long enough for decent local facilities. This cannot be allowed to drift behind closed doors until ‘late next year’ without transparency, milestones and proper engagement.
“If Staffordshire County Council wants communities to stay engaged, then it must start communicating properly and openly.
“I will continue pressing to ensure this proposal does not stall and that residents receive the clarity they deserve.”
