'Alleygate' plan will stop tippers (From Penarth Times)

'Alleygate' plan will stop tippers

THE most contentious issue in Penarth is arguably the pedestrianisation of Glebe Street - but for Cllr Gerald Fletcher, this is just one matter in a sea of many.

The department of Visible and Building Services, headed by elected member Cllr Gerald Fletcher is responsible for a wide range of areas, from street hygiene to the condition of buildings.

In the last of our series of interviews with councillors following May's State of the Vale debate he said: "Without doubt, the issue causing the most feeling in Penarth is Glebe Street.

"The new system will be on trial for the next 18 months and if we feel it has not worked as we hoped, then it can be reversed.

"I am very excited about a partnership between the Vale council and the Police, called 'Alleygate'.

"We are going to be closing off the lanes behind houses and giving the residents who live next to the lanes a key so they can access their property. It will cut down on fly-tipping and help the constabulary.

"Another small problem that provokes a big reaction is dog poo. Canine mess is under my department and to help control this problem, we have re-introduced dog poo bags. People can pick these up free of charge from the Civic Offices in Holton Road or any of the district offices. Hopefully this will encourage responsible ownership."

Another project Cllr Fletcher is pleased with is the new section of railway line opening in 2005.

He added: "This will get people out of their cars from Penarth, through Barry and out to the rural Vale.

"It will ease travelling, open the route to Bridgend and make a huge impact environmentally."

He added: "In the last few weeks, we have launched a helpline telephone number people can call if they want to report anything, from fly-tipping to picking up bulky items. Any problems, contact us on 029 2067 3000."