It’s good to be back with my PAB Blog covering the updates on some of the things
I have been up to both in and around Prestbury and as your representative on Cheltenham Borough Council.

The early part of 2026 was relatively quiet but latterly things have taken off and I have been busy trying to keep on top both of the more normal day to day local matters
– drains, flooding, potholes (!)

– as well as doing lots about the, new, upcoming changes to the way local government will be working after 2028.

As you might know, the latter stem from changes required by the national government.
Originally the proposed changes meant CBC would not need to organise elections in Cheltenham this year however opposition disagreement forced the national government to change course and accordingly we will be having another Election in Prestbury (May) for the seat currently held by the Green Party. I expressed an opinion in the Echo that the cost of these ‘extra’ elections was just silly in the current financial climate and especially as we will probably be having Elections next year under the major proposed changes.

* I will still be here though, as in the local election two years ago your support elected me for a
full 4 year term so that runs till 2028, I feel privileged to offer the continuity which PAB has
brought to Prestbury for over 40 years now.*
Beyond 2028 the new changes will be in place.

Onto more local matters:
We have Race week with us again. I am very much aware of the months of planning that go into trying to look after our community as hordes of racegoers come to town. I have made it my business, over the years as Councillor, to build a good relationship with the racecourse management. The report they did on plans they have this year was good – just one or two concerns which I will be keeping an eye on though. PAB will be out and about on the streets as in previous years.

Planning matters have taken up plenty of time so far this year but your Councillors are on top of them now.

When I took up my role one of the first matters I started with was the longstanding matter of flooding in Glebe Road. Eventually we got it sorted – a heavy builder’s lorry then caused damage to the new works so we are now pressing for appropriate remedial work in order to bring an end to this whole saga. I will keep watching !  So far CBC has strongly chastised the building company and told them to get it repaired.

Swindon Lane – long awaited re-surfacing is now in April’s budget. No date yet but will keep you posted.

Potholes – now on the list to be fixed in Albert Rd and New Barn Lane.

A435 – Cycle Way
At long last we are getting to the end of the disruption this has caused, I really do hope our cycling residents can benefit from this new installation and most important keep safe away from the increasingly heavy traffic flow. Also please note I received a note from Gloucestershire Highways confirming there will be a new speed limit on the  stretch from Swindon Lane to Southam Lane, decreasing from 60mph to 40mph, so please keep a watch on your speed.

Do have a very Happy Spring. You know where I am if you need me.

All Good Wishes
Stan
(Councillor Stan Smith – PAB)