A few weeks ago, I was lucky enough to be invited on a tour of the emergency engineering works currently being carried out around the Tame Viaduct and in Reddish Vale Country Park.
Because of the progressive erosion of the riverbank, one of the viaduct pillars was identified by Network Rail as at threat of collapse. I’m really grateful that Network Rail have acted so quickly to address the consequences of this riverbank erosion.
Crucially, Sustainable Stockport – led by Cllr Sheila Bailey – worked with network rail to ensure that the work didn’t harm or adversely impact the River Tame, or its wildlife.
As I was walking around the vast engineering site, I was reminded about how important it is to be proactive in protecting, defending, and enhancing our precious green spaces. Now I’m not just talking about big structural engineering works, but smaller responsibilities that we all have as members of a community.
I’m always inspired when I see local people out and about on litter picks or community clean-up days. Local Councillors regularly collaborate with residents to organise clean up days, and I’m really proud of all that they have achieved across Reddish.
In particular, I would like to thank Jude Wells, who recently stood down as Councillor for Reddish South. Alongside her exceptional work as Cabinet Member for Adult Care and Health, Jude worked tirelessly to improve our green spaces, but also to engage local residents to recognise the importance of them. I’d like to take the time to sincerely thank Jude for her time on the Council.
We recently had local elections, and whatever your politics, we should all recognise the value of having Councillors who stand alongside and work with residents to improve our communities. Ultimately, this is what politics is all about.