18th October 2025
Residents in Romiley have voiced growing frustration after rubbish and construction waste were left strewn across protected amenity land for more than a year — despite assurances from the council last December that action would be taken.
The site, which lies within land previously designated for visual amenity at Padden Brook, has been the focus of repeated complaints about dumped debris and poor maintenance. Locals say the area, valued for its greenery and wildlife, has become blighted by litter and spoil heaps.
According to residents, Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council acknowledged the issue in late 2024 and confirmed that enforcement measures were under way. However, 14 months later, little visible progress appears to have been made.
One local resident told the Romiley Gazette:
“We were told the matter was being dealt with, but the site looks the same. It’s supposed to be protected land — not a dumping ground.”
Campaigners have also questioned why local Liberal Democrat councillors and the area’s MP have not pressed more forcefully for resolution, arguing that visual amenity land should be safeguarded for community benefit and environmental health.
The area in question has a complex planning history, with earlier records showing restrictions intended to preserve its amenity value and limit development. Long-time residents recall that even small-scale building proposals were once refused on environmental and access grounds.
With local elections approaching, the issue has become a flashpoint for debate over accountability, enforcement, and the stewardship of green spaces in Romiley. For now, residents say they simply want to see the land cleared and restored by re-planting.
