Refuse Collection Problems in Cotteridge

Although I have been pushing on this for some time (since August 2001!), it appears the Transportation Department and Environmental and Consumer Services Department are finally getting their act together to resolve the access difficulties in Holly, Laurel and Cotteridge Roads which affect not only basic refuse collection services but also, and far more importantly, access for emergency vehicles.

Although Transportation have put forward a rather draconian proposal for waiting restrictions – seemingly everywhere – I am hopeful that this will stimulate debate amongst residents and will result in more sensible solutions being put forward to resolve this problem.

A public meeting was held recently to discuss these issues and I will keep you updated on progress.

For more on refuse and recycling, click here

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I have written Cllr Albert Bore, Leader of Birmingham City Council, in support of a Memorial to be erected in honour of the victims of Air Raids in Birmingham. The lack of an appropriate memorial was bought to my attention by the Birmingham Air Raids Remembrance Association.

Birmingham Mint

Two constituents have raised their concerns with me about the Royal Mint’s decision to withdraw from a longstanding contract with the Birmingham Mint as well as possible abuse of the Royal Mint’s monopoly. Both constituents fear job losses. I have written to Ruth Kelly MP, the Minister responsible for the Royal Mint in the Treasury Department, asking her to investigate.

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Several constituents bought this matter to my attention following an accident involving a pupil of the school being hit by a car. I have corresponded with the school and the Highways Department of Birmingham City Council with a view to improving road safety at the front entrance and outside the school. The School and Highways Department have recently met and agreed to the following:

• The yellow zig-zag lines have been repainted
• Arrange the installation of a pedestrian guard railing
• Investigate the possibility of alterations to the front entrance
• Investigate the ownership of an adjacent service road to enable measures to be implemented to ensure access to this road in not obstructed.
• Continue working together in formulating a School Travel Plan for West Heath School.

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