Overgrown Alley Sparks Frustration Among Residents
A woman living beside an overgrown alleyway in Chatham, Kent, for 14 years is calling for help, as the once-thriving space has transformed into a dumping ground. Sue Abnett, 62, residing next to the jungle-like alley, accuses her landlord, MHS Homes, of inadequate maintenance.
Sue had previously spent £600 to clear the area just two years ago, only to see the brambles return. The ownership of the land remains uncertain, but MHS Homes has reportedly pledged to trim the bushes come November.
Sue voiced her dismay, stating, “It’s really upsetting and so frustrating as we are trying to keep our properties in good order. My fencing had to be replaced because the foliage was growing through it. I tried to convince MHS Homes to hand the alley over to the residents as they do not have the resources to maintain it, but it will only be handed over to us if all the neighbors agree to take on the land. It’s just become an eyesore which we want to be maintained.”
Sue, who recently met with Ward Councillor Simon Curry, emphasizes that the accumulating rubbish is attracting vermin. During the last cleanup, 12 sacks of trash containing bottle cans, toys, and old furniture were removed.
Gemma Hancock, Executive Director of Assets and Development at MHS Homes, expressed the housing association’s commitment to maintaining their outdoor spaces. She stated, “We want to make sure we’re looking after all the outside spaces we’re responsible for. We’re currently seeking clarity on the area in question to establish whether it is land owned by MHS Homes. Our estates team will also be carrying out an inspection of the area. We understand how frustrating this is for residents and we’re seeking to get the matter resolved as soon as possible so we can take the appropriate action.”
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