Cheltenham’s MP, Max Wilkinson, has exposed that the contentious resurfacing works at The Strand have cost taxpayers nearly £350,000. This significant figure was disclosed publicly for the first time following Wilkinson’s probing questions directed at the newly elected Liberal Democrat leadership at Shire Hall.
The resurfacing project, originally approved under the former Conservative administration, has drawn sharp criticism from Cheltenham residents for its poor quality. In response, the Conservatives have accused the Liberal Democrats—the current party controlling Cheltenham Borough Council—of contributing to the inflated costs through a lack of cooperation. They also pointed out that the Lib Dems previously squandered £450,000 on the unsuccessful Boots Corner project.
Additionally, the Tories highlighted that there was an alternative scheme that met council requirements but would have cost taxpayers £1.6 million. To address ongoing concerns, county council officials attended a site visit at Mr Wilkinson’s invitation. They have since committed to devising a comprehensive town centre plan, aiming to replace years of fragmented and piecemeal efforts.
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Mr Wilkinson criticized the previous administration: “It’s scandalous that the former Conservative County Council leadership spent such a large sum on a substandard job. Everyone can see the mess they’ve created. This reflects a profound lack of respect for Cheltenham’s residents and a disregard for the town’s well-being.
“The Conservatives lost the recent election, and now they must be held accountable for these failures. Disclosing the cost of the works is an important step toward transparency. With years of government cuts squeezing local budgets, wasting £350,000 this way is unacceptable. That money simply cannot be spent twice.
“However, there is cause for optimism. The new County Council leadership has welcomed my request to investigate the issue, provided important answers, and pledged to collaborate on a revitalized plan for Cheltenham’s town centre as well as other county centres. This fresh approach is a welcome departure from years of neglect by the Conservatives at Shire Hall.”
In addition to addressing resurfacing issues, Mr Wilkinson is also in discussions to safeguard the future of the historic flagstones on The Promenade. Since his election, he has advocated for the cessation of quick-fix ‘tarmac cowpatting’ repairs in the town centre, emphasizing the need for lasting solutions.
Former Conservative County Council leader Stephen Davies retorted: “Unfortunately, the Liberal Democrats have once again prioritized sensational headlines over the truth. Much of these costs stem from their lack of cooperation at Cheltenham Borough Council — the same group responsible for wasting £450,000 on Boots Corner.”
Residents are invited to share their thoughts on the town centre works in the comments.