Centre of attention (From Warrington Guardian)

Centre of attention

THE ROUNDABOUT in Canute Square has often undergone makeovers to improve Knutsford's image.

But some residents believe the town's centrepiece is receiving special treatment compared to others.

Last week Mollie Eden, 85, said a roundabout near her home in Warren Avenue was less pampered.

"It's not to be compared to the one in the town centre," she said. "It's an absolute disgrace."

Paul Moss, who had discovered residents' concerns as he campaigned for the Lib-Dems during a recent by-election, said the problem highlighted two different sides of Knutsford. "It's a disgrace and the residents of Warren Avenue shouldn't be forgotten," he said.

In previous years the town council has been urged not to neglect parts of Knutsford in its drive to win the North West in Bloom competition.

Four years ago the late Clr Derek Squirrell said areas such as Warren Avenue should also be kept tidy all year. But last week Clr Jennifer Holbrook, chairman of the environment committee, said Macclesfield Borough Council was responsible for the roundabout.

"The concerns are being attended to," she said. "It was planted up with roses by Macclesfield.

"But the kids don't respect anything round there and they wrecked it." As the Knutsford Guardian went to press a spokesman for Macclesfield Borough Council was unavailable to comment.

Mrs Eden has complained about the state of the Warren Avenue roundabout for the past six years. But last week the pensioner said she was becoming tired of contacting officials about the problem.

"It looks like no one lives down here," she said.

"I would think a false roundabout would be a better option."

Earlier this year a roundabout in Chelford Road, Knutsford, was transformed into a floral feast to welcome 100,000 visitors to the RHS Flower Show at Tatton Park.Cheshire County Council, Macclesfield Borough Council and the RHS used a schoolboy's design to create the display.