A GRANDFATHER’S campaign to highlight long-overdue street work has finally paid off – and Swindon Council’s highways boss is urging others to do the same.

Earlier this year Nigel Wood, 67, a retired landscape gardener, went around his local area of Stratton and other parts of Swindon photographing what he saw.

The pictures showed roadside gullies blocked with leaves, mud and litter, plus two roadsigns that were so covered in grime they could be written on with a finger.

Mr Wood was particularly concerned about blocked drains in the car park area near the shops in Beechcroft Road, Upper Stratton, which created large puddles when it rains, plus a blocked drain near the council offices, in Beckhampton Street.

He said he reported the worst examples of poor maintenance to Swindon Council in November and was told they were logged on the system. Yet no action had been taken by early May, when his photographs were published in the Adver.

Now Mr Wood, who approached the council again after the article appeared, is delighted his months of hard work have made a difference for the community.

One of the signs he highlighted, on Hyde Road, has been completely replaced, including the rusted pole and the base. The other, on Ermin Street, has been cleaned, and the drains in Beechcroft Road and Beckhampton Street have been cleared.

Mr Wood, who has lived in Hathaway Road, Upper Stratton, for 22 years, said the new sign has made the town seem more appealing to drivers and stopped the area looking like a “slum.”

He is also pleased the council had removed three street signs that remained in Queensfield following a 12-month trial, which ended in February, to stop traffic cutting through the estate at peak times.

He thanked the Adver for supporting his campaign of several months.

“They have cleaned the drains and they have taken all the signs down at Queensfield so they have opened the thoroughfare through Queensfield,” said Mr Wood.

“It has only been under duress and under pressure, through residents snapping at their heels.

“Thanks to the Adver too, and to the Swindon Council for ultimately resolving the matter.”

Coun Keith Williams, cabinet member for highways, strategic transport and leisure, encouraged residents to take photos of issues that need sorting, and send them with the location details to the council.

Given the budget cuts coming through from central government, he said locals will play an increasingly important role in helping the council provide community services.

He said: “We do encourage residents to do more of this. Obviously, with our resources spread thinly the way they are, any support we can get from well-meaning members of the public like this is appreciated.

“We cannot guarantee in every instance there will be a swift response but it’s important for members of the public to phone 01793 445 501 to report any issues.”