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16th January 2026
Residents in Romiley have raised concerns after two Liberal Democrat councillors were photographed outlining plans to protect green spaces in the town, despite what locals describe as long-standing inaction over damage to a protected woodland.
The photograph, shared publicly this week from the full council meeting, shows the councillors setting out commitments to safeguarding Stockport’s natural environment. However, residents living near Padden Brook say their experience does not match the message.
According to local campaigners, issues surrounding the W1-protected woodland at Padden Brook — including alleged dumping of rubbish and destruction of natural habitat — have been repeatedly reported to the council for more than 17 months without what they describe as meaningful intervention.
One resident said they felt “ignored and dismissed” after raising the issue numerous times.
Tensions reportedly came to a head when Councillor [Roberts], the local ward councillor, was challenged by a resident over the lack of action. The resident alleges that the councillor responded by shouting aggressively at them in a public setting. “All I did was point out that nothing had been done,” the resident said. “I’m a council taxpayer and I expected to be listened to, not shouted at.”
Concerns have also been raised about conduct during council meetings. Some residents have criticised Councillor Angela Clark, claiming she has been seen chewing during formal meetings, which they say undermines professionalism and respect for the chamber.
Residents stress that their frustration is not political, but environmental. “This is about protecting woodland that is supposed to be protected,” one campaigner said. “Photo opportunities and promises don’t clean up dumped waste or restore damaged habitats.”
The Gazette has approached both councillors for comment.
