York man hits out at council over ‘eyesore’ communal gardens

Stephen Phillips has been a resident of Navigation Road for more than 20 years but says the outdoor space he shares with other residents has “never looked this bad”.

The property’s front gardens are overgrown, he said, with knee-high weeds and shrubbery, despite some residents paying a service charge for the council to maintain the space.

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Speaking about this, Stephen said: “Over the past couple of years, the standard of upkeep has noticeably declined.”

Stephen Phillips said the weeds have not been maintained by the council since late last year (Image: Newsquest)

He added: “The condition of these spaces has now reached a point where they are becoming an eyesore for residents.

“On Navigation Road, for example, ivy is left to grow unchecked up the walls year after year.

“The grass is often left to grow excessively long before being cut, and when it is eventually maintained, the result is untidy, with cuttings left scattered across footpaths.

“These are not cleared away, leading to grass being walked into nearby flats.”

The grass is left to grow “excessively” long before being cut in areas around Walmgate, Stephen said (Image: Supplied)

Stephen said the council had not cut the communal grass areas at the front and back of his block of flats since late last year.

He said: “I have ongoing concerns about the poor maintenance of public garden areas in York, particularly in the Walmgate area.

“There is a significant issue with weeds. They are growing up to window frames and pushing through cracks in pavements, further contributing to the neglected appearance of the area.

“This situation is disappointing and impacts the overall environment and quality of life for residents.

“I would appreciate it if the council could address these issues and provide information on how and when regular maintenance will be improved.”

City of York Council has been approached for comment and we’ll add it here when we hear back.