Shadsworth residents say they feel ‘abandoned’ by council

Householders in Shadsworth spoke out after concerns their streets had been ‘left behind’, with attention being diverted elsewhere.

The areas around Shadsworth Close, Farm House Close, Delph Lane, Delph Close were of particular concern to residents.

However, a visit to Delph Lane recently showed the small patches of grass had in fact been cut.

Jackie Cooke, who has lived in the area for 28 years, said: “We do feel as if the council has abandoned us somewhat. We feel neglected.

“We have lived here for decades and never seen it like this.

“I grew up here and we used to be able to walk along these paths and it was well kept. Walk around now and it appears like a different place.

“This is the worst I have ever seen it.

“It just feels that we are not really a priority.

“I am sure if you walk through some of the more affluent areas and the hedgerows and grass will not be allowed to grow so high."

She described the situation as 'awful'

Fellow resident Jane Evans said: “We are lucky to have it cut once a year in some parts.

"The weeds have been left to grow and some areas are inaccessible for people.

“We end up paying out of our own pocket to do some weeding ourselves.

“My Blackburn postcode should get the same service as any other postcode.

“Rubbish attracts rubbish and we also have issues with abandoned cars and fly-tipping.”

Councillor Altaf ‘Tiger’ Patel (Conservative, Audley & Queen's Park) said he was called to meet the residents and understood their concerns.

He said: “You only have to walk around and take a look. 

“I think it would help to come and walk here and see for yourself.

“The groundwork used to be maintained but now it is all overgrown. The postcode should be treated the same as all other areas in the borough.”

Blackburn with Darwen Council was approached for comment.

Meanwhile, the grass areas on Delph Close had been cut by the council last week, but other areas have not been treated as yet.