THERE has been a mixed reaction to the news that flowerbeds on Cleethorpes seafront are to be replaced with grasses, gravels and shrubs to save money on maintenance.
We revealed how work began on Tuesday to dig up large sections of award-winning flowerbeds along Kingsway, to be replaced with Mediterranean-style gardens, which will cost North East Lincolnshire Council less to maintain.
The move comes at a time of budget-cutting, and was criticised by Cleethorpes In Bloom's Jeff Blanchard, who said it should be delayed until after October, when the Britain In Bloom awards is held in the resort.
The reaction from Telegraph readers has been mixed, however.
Borge Nejrup, of New Waltham, wrote in to say: "I realise in this day and age and due to financial constraints, combined with extreme weather conditions, Mediterranean-style gardens are a good solution
"But does the council not realise the flowers are a great talking point for most of the resort's visitors? They are one of Cleethorpes' main attractions. Local people, schools and businesses have worked very hard over the years, using their own funds and time to improve the local areas, providing flower gardens and features to enter the Cleethorpes In Bloom competitions.
"Why make these changes when Britain In Bloom is visiting this year; the flowers helped us win the awards – why on earth remove them before they visit!"
On www.thisisgrimsby.co.uk, Davendogs asked: "Why don't the In Bloom squad prepare, plant up and maintain these flower beds if they are that concerned?"
IMProveit posted: "The digging up of the flower beds is short-sighted and will do nothing to encourage tourism.
"Pine trees and birch trees are hardly appropriate in a flower bed. Drought resistant plants would be fine in very dry weather, but in normal weather conditions visitors will expect to see colourful flower beds.
"Couldn't the plants be replaced less often? And what is done with the plants that are dug up? Are they sold to generate some cash? A few more perennials would mean fewer new plants."
4caster said: "This is short-sighted and unimaginative. NELC should explore sponsorship rather than destroy the beauty of the seafront, resulting in visitors going elsewhere."
Christine313 added: "What a stupid thing to do. These gardens are beautiful and must attract lots of visitors to Cleethorpes. Bedding plants don't cost a fortune but give a fantastic summer display."
And ianhale1965 said: "Such a shame but sign of the times and financial climate I guess!"
Share your thoughts by posting a comment, or by e-mailing viewpoint@grimsbytelegraph.co.uk
