Today (Friday 27 July) Luke Myer MP met with independent Councillor Mick Saunders in Park End to discuss a range of local issues raised by residents in Park End and Beckfield, focusing on safety along the black path and the need for better community facilities.

The black path, which connects Parkside to James Cook Hospital and Berwick Hills, has been a long-standing concern for residents due to antisocial behaviour and safety fears. During their meeting, Councillor Saunders highlighted the need for new lighting to be installed and existing lights repaired along this important walking route, to make it safer for people travelling to and from work or hospital appointments.

There were also calls to cut back overgrown areas and wilding along the path to improve visibility, as well as to clear fly tipping around Ormesby beck, which continues to blight the environment for local people.

Away from the path itself, Luke and Councillor Saunders discussed concerns that there are now no community spaces available for residents to meet, hold public events, or come together to discuss local issues. They stressed that having a safe, accessible place for community engagement is vital for building pride in Park End.

Following the meeting, Luke Myer MP said he would be taking up these issues with Mayor Chris Cooke, asking about the feasibility of funding and action to address these concerns as soon as possible.

“Residents deserve to feel safe walking through their community and to have spaces where they can come together. I’ll keep pushing to make sure their voices are heard and that practical solutions are put in place.”