Worcester City Council’s Minor Works Unit has completed a full refurbishment of the iconic Spitfire play equipment at Perdiswell Play Area, just in time for the school summer holidays. Originally installed in 2017 at a cost of £30,000, the bespoke aircraft-themed structure has become a favourite with local families. Thanks to the council’s maintenance team, it’s now been restored to its original condition — looking as good as new. Cllr Jessie Jagger, Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group, said: “The Spitfire is such a special feature at Perdiswell, and it’s lovely to see it looking brand new again. My daughter Lila is still a bit little for it, but I’m sure she’ll love watching the bigger kids play — and it won’t be long before she’s clambering on it too!” The Council continues to invest in play spaces across the city, recognising their importance for family life, wellbeing, and community enjoyment.
Beehive Relocation Brings Relief and Renewal for Local Residents – Residents are Buzzing!
Cllr Sarah Murray, Liberal Democrat City Councillor for St Nicholas ward in Warndon Villages and Worcester City Council’s Member Champion for Personal Safety and Civility in Public Office, has welcomed the successful resolution of a long-running issue involving 22 unmanaged beehives in a residential area of Warndon Villages. The hives, which had become a source of anxiety for nearby residents due to swarming, noise, and pollen accumulation, were peacefully and voluntarily removed earlier this spring following ongoing dialogue and support from local councillors and environmental officers. One resident described the change as transformative: “It really has felt like I have moved to a new home. I now have bumblebees, butterflies and an abundance of small birds in my garden. There’s no more noise, no more bees dying on the patio, and I can sit outside without fear. It has made a huge difference to my wellbeing.” Cllr Murray said: “This was a complex and sensitive issue that required patient engagement and a calm, fact-based approach. I’m grateful to residents for the trust they placed in me, and to officers who worked behind the scenes to support a respectful outcome. I’m particularly pleased that residents are now able to enjoy their gardens again — and that the relocation has supported a healthier, more balanced ecosystem for pollinators in the area.” Cllr Murray also acknowledged that while some have raised concerns about the removal of the hives, the decision was rooted in a balanced understanding of both environmental and community wellbeing. “As someone with a long-standing commitment to environmental causes, I understand better than most how vital pollinators are to our ecosystems. But like any ecological intervention, location and management matter. When hives are left unmanaged in dense residential areas, they can create risks — not just for residents but for the bees themselves. Good environmentalism isn’t about slogans. It’s about thoughtful, proportionate decisions that protect people and nature in tandem. That means working with residents — not ignoring them — to find the right solutions for the right places.” The outcome, she said, demonstrates that it’s possible to uphold environmental values while still listening to those directly affected. Cllr Murray, who also serves as Chair of the City Council’s Standards Committee, added: “This is a reminder of how local democracy works best: through listening, problem-solving, and respectful collaboration.” No enforcement action was ultimately required, as the beekeeper agreed to remove the hives voluntarily before the Council’s abatement deadline. Ongoing monitoring will ensure any future changes are managed appropriately.
Barbourne Works: Councillor urges continued support as phased return announced
Cllr Jessie Jagger has welcomed the announcement of a possible phased return for ground and first floor residents at Barbourne Works following the recent evacuation, but says support must continue for those still unable to return home. “While it’s positive that some residents may soon be able to return, many still face huge uncertainty. I want to thank everyone involved so far, but we must keep working together to ensure clear communication, safe accommodation, and practical help until all residents can return home safely.” Anne Eason, one of the residents’ spokespeople, added “We’re really pleased that progress is being made and that some of our neighbours are hopeful they can return. But for many, the uncertainty continues. We hope the companies involved will keep working with us to find solutions and provide the clarity and support we all need during this difficult time.” A dedicated council webpage has now been set up to provide residents with the latest updates and guidance: 👉 https://www.worcester.gov.uk/housing/support-and-guidance-for-barbourne-works-apartments-residents A dedicated FirstPort phone line is also available for building-related queries: 📞 0333 321 4080 ENDS
CLLR ALLCOTT RESPONDS TO GOVERNMENT SPENDING REVIEW
Cllr Mel Allcott has major concerns for both social care and the NHS following Chancellor of the Exchequer MP Rachel Reeves spending review. As the newly elected Chair of Adult Care and Wellbeing Overview and Scrutiny Panel, Mel is alarmed local government is having its funding cut by 1.4% during the period of the review. Cllr Allcott said ‘Adult Services are 39% of the gross expenditure budget for the county council and councils have a statutory duty to provide social care. Cuts to government budgets already at breaking point are negligent and will leave a massive black hole.’ ‘The Labour government had real opportunity to repair damage done by the Conservatives and deliver on a promise of change. Putting money into the NHS but not social care is a recipe for disaster.’ ‘Health and Social Care Secretary MP Wes Streeting kicked the can down the road with an independent commission on social care, starting April this year, to end 3 years later in 2028. We need joined up thinking and action now on both and health and social care. Endless reviews have been undertaken but not taken on board.’ ‘Only by working on health and social care together will we put an end to ambulance queues, corridor care and long appointment and treatment wait times.’ I’n my new role I will be doing all I can locally plus lobbying government nationally to fix social care.’
Barbourne Residents Hold Powerful Meeting as Accommodation Extended
Residents of Barbourne Works have received a temporary reprieve in their fight for an answer to the ongoing situation surrounding their living status. Accommodation for evacuated residents has now been extended until Tuesday. FirstPort has agreed to fund an extra night in hotels as a gesture of goodwill, though the company maintains it does not accept liability. This news follows a well-attended resident-led meeting held on Sunday, where spokespeople updated the group, shared key information, and discussed next steps. The mood was determined and collaborative, with residents expressing pride in how the community has come together in the face of uncertainty. While the extension offers short-term relief, concerns remain. Residents staying with friends and family remain unsupported, and those booked into hotels by FirstPort have not received meals — unlike those placed by the council. With food costs mounting, many are finding the situation increasingly difficult to manage. Cllr Jessie Jagger, who has been assisting residents, said “I’m glad that FirstPort has done the right thing by extending accommodation while the question of liability remains unresolved. What’s been truly inspiring is how residents have come together: a group of highly educated, motivated, and well-organised individuals supporting one another through an incredibly difficult time. They deserve answers, and they deserve better.” Residents are now calling for a formal public forum where the companies involved — including FirstPort, Wallace Partnership Group, and Simarc — can respond to their questions on the public record.
“Clock Is Ticking”: Councillor Urges FirstPort and Freeholder to Guarantee Accommodation as Thursday Deadline Looms
Worcester City Councillor Jessie Jagger has warned that dozens of residents evacuated from Barbourne Works could be left without accommodation from Thursday, unless immediate action is taken by property management company FirstPort and the building’s freeholder, Wallace Partnership Group. The evacuation took place last week following a prohibition notice issued by Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, which identified serious fire safety risks relating to cladding and escape routes. While emergency accommodation was arranged, the temporary stays offered to many residents are now coming to an end — and no long-term plan has yet been agreed. “The most urgent issue right now is that many residents still don’t know where they’ll sleep on Thursday night,” said Cllr Jessie Jagger, who has been working to support affected residents. “FirstPort, Simarc, and Wallace Partnership Group are debating liability — but in the meantime, real people are stuck in limbo. That’s not acceptable. These are families, older people, and working individuals who deserve certainty and dignity.” Cllr Jagger has visited the site multiple times and has been in direct contact with residents, council officers, and company representatives. She says the council is doing everything it can with limited resources but cannot cover ongoing costs such as parking, food, or extended hotel stays indefinitely. “FirstPort is the UK’s largest managing agent. Wallace Partnership Group owns over 100,000 freeholds. Simarc manages their portfolio. Between them, they have the resources to act. Guaranteeing accommodation for all residents until the inspection is complete — and ideally until a full resolution is found — is the minimum that should be expected. If they are not ultimately liable, they can claim the cost back through insurance or the responsible party. But people must not be left to pay the price while companies debate responsibility.” A new council webpage is being developed to centralise updates and support for residents. Households affected by the evacuation will also be eligible for council tax exemptions for the period they are unable to live in their homes. “This is a test of corporate responsibility,” added Cllr Jagger. “There’s still time to do the right thing — but the clock is ticking.”
Cllr Jagger and Holmes make statement after Evictions forced at Barbourne Works apartments
Two WLD councillors have today reacted to the news that residents have been forced to leave their homes due to fire safety concerns. Sixty people, including eight children, had to leave the flats at Barbourne Works in Worcester after inspectors found significant dangers leaving the residents ‘at risk forcing them to issue a prohibition notice. Residents affected included 52 adults and eight children. Management firm First Port said the concerns related to defects from when the former factory was converted 20 years ago. Claines City Councillors Jessie Jagger and Karen Holmes today issued statements regarding the situation. Cllr Jagger said ‘I want to thank everyone involved in the swift and coordinated response to the urgent evacuation of Barbourne Works. I visited the site and Perdiswell Leisure Centre last night to speak with residents and to make sure they knew they could reach out for help. Several have already been in touch with me, and I encourage others to do the same if they need support. While Perdiswell was set up as a rest centre, I’m pleased to say that everyone who came there last night was found suitable temporary accommodation and did not need to stay overnight at the centre. I want to thank the council staff for their tireless work in making that happen. I also understand that many residents chose to stay with family or friends in the immediate aftermath, but may now need additional support to find a more suitable long-term solution. We are very mindful of the number of young families affected, and we are doing everything we can to work with partner agencies to make sure the right people take responsibility for finding appropriate interim housing solutions. I will continue to work closely with Worcester City Council, the fire authority and housing teams to support residents. After Grenfell, no council can afford to take these concerns lightly. Safety must always come first. If you have been affected and would like to speak with me directly, please get in touch on 07912 650701 or jessie.jagger@worcester.gov.uk. We are here to help.” Cllr Holmes said ‘I visited Barbourne Works to see the building for myself and understand the scale of the fire safety concerns. The extent of the timber panelling—from the ground floor up to level four—raises serious questions. If flammable cladding is present behind that structure, as indicated, then we are looking at a major and complex issue that cannot be resolved overnight. Residents deserve honest communication and practical solutions. Many acted quickly and calmly in response to the evacuation, but I know this has left families in an incredibly difficult position. Some are now in temporary accommodation, while others who stayed with friends or relatives may soon need more secure options. My priority is ensuring that all residents are properly supported and that the necessary agencies take responsibility for both the short-term housing needs and the long-term remediation work. These concerns must be treated with the seriousness they warrant—not just as a matter of safety, but of trust and responsibility.”
Your Councils are Changing……
Major changes are planned to councils across Worcestershire as part of the biggest shake-up of local government in more than 50 years. The Government is requiring 21 areas of England to restructure their system of local government before 2029. There are two parts to the Government’s proposed changes: Local government reorganisation – where the Government is looking to replace borough/district/city and county councils with fewer councils. Devolution – where the Government is looking to transfer powers and funding to new Strategic Authorities (also called Combined Authorities) that cover a number of new council areas and are responsible for large projects such as transport, infrastructure and economic development. The six borough, city and district councils across Worcestershire are now asking for your help to piece together who in future should deliver the services you rely on every day. The public engagement on local government reorganisation runs from 1 to 29 June 2025. Local Government Reorganisation is happening. Have your say by clicking HERE
Cllr Mel Allcott helps raise £22,000 for Charity as Mayor term finishes
WLD’s Cllr Mel Allcott managed to help raise £22,000 for charity in her mayoral year. Cllr Allcott ran a host of charity functions during her mayoral tenure, all whilst balancing her duties as a City and County Councillor. As reported in the Worcester News, the money will go to her chosen charity – Perdiswell Young People’s Leisure Centre. Cllr Allcott pledged to continue with her youth work and thanked people for supporting the charity. Fellow Claines Councillor Karen Holmes said: “Mel’s charity for the year reflects her concern for youth. Her term was initially interrupted by her standing for Parliament and being witness at my wedding!” “But she soon got into her stride,” said Cllr Holmes, “undertaking various mayoral duties with grace, fairness and firmness. “There have been many highlights this mayoral year for Mel, like the Pride and Prejudice banquet, getting re-elected to county council with a resounding victory, and meeting the King and Queen last week at the garden party.” Cllr Allcott herself was full of thanks for being given the chance. She said “it has been an absolute privilege and pleasure to have been Mayor of Worcester over this past year. I would like to thank all those who helped and supported me and who gave so generously for the charity.”
“The Tone of Politics Matters” – Councillor Sarah Murray Highlights the Need for Civility After Election Campaign
Worcester City Councillor Sarah Murray, who serves as the Council’s Member Champion for Personal Safety and Civility in Public Office, has spoken about the need to improve the tone of political debate following a challenging County Council election campaign. Cllr Murray said she made a considered effort to run a civil, community-focused campaign — but was nonetheless met with personal insults, misrepresentation, and name-calling, both in person and on social media. “In my role as Member Champion, I’ve worked to promote dignity, safety and accountability in public life,” she said. “Through our White Ribbon accreditation and other initiatives, we’ve taken steps to build a more inclusive and respectful political culture.” Reflecting on her experience, she said: “Despite doing everything I could to stay positive and focused on local issues, I encountered hostility that crossed a line. These moments were difficult — not just for me, but for what they suggest about the environment we’re creating for public debate.” She made a conscious decision not to respond to personal attacks during the campaign. “Choosing not to engage with negativity allowed me to stay focused on the issues that matter to residents. I know others made the same choice, in the interest of keeping the conversation constructive.” Cllr Murray stressed that her concern goes beyond the result of any one election. “This isn’t about winning or losing — it’s about whether we’re making politics accessible and fair. If standing for election means opening yourself up to personal abuse, many good people will simply decide it’s not worth it.” She is calling for renewed efforts across all parties to foster a respectful and inclusive political culture. “We need to talk seriously about the barriers to participation. Because if this is how we treat those who step forward, we risk losing capable and compassionate people — particularly women — before they ever get the chance to lead.” Cllr Murray continues to serve as a City Councillor and says her commitment to public service remains strong. “I’ll keep speaking up — not just for myself, but for the next person watching and wondering if public life is for them. It can be — but only if we work together to make it safe, respectful and truly open for all.’’
