Gloucestershire County Council faces potential legal action over the worsening condition of streets in Cheltenham town centre. The Civic Society has expressed frustration over the persistent presence of the so-called “tarmac cow pats” — patches of asphalt where traditional stone paving once stood — and is considering court proceedings to compel necessary repairs.
Concerns were first raised in 2024 regarding the “unpleasant and unwelcoming” state of key areas such as the Strand and the Promenade. Despite earlier efforts and a previous Section 56 notice issued in September 2024, progress has stalled. The Civic Society now plans to serve a further Section 56 notice, a legal tool that obliges highway authorities to maintain and repair public roads and pathways.
Andrew Booton, Chair of the Civic Society, criticized the ongoing replacement of historic stone slabs with asphalt, stating, “It is deeply disappointing that matters have reached this point. The repeated use of tarmac in place of traditional stone paving is simply unacceptable for a town of Cheltenham’s stature.”
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Booton emphasized that the deterioration of these prominent public spaces negatively impacts businesses, residents, and visitors alike. “The current approach is damaging our town’s reputation and usability. We have been left with no choice but to take firm legal steps to halt this ongoing decline.”
The Civic Society hopes that Gloucestershire County Council will respond promptly and implement the high-quality repairs that Cheltenham rightfully deserves. The council has been contacted for comment on the situation.