Chaos and Mess at Gleeson Homes' Acklam Gardens Development in Middlesbrough

In a quiet corner of Middlesbrough, usually known for its tranquillity and community spirit, a storm is brewing. Residents of the Whinney Banks area are describing their experiences with the new-build Acklam Gardens estate as an "utter nightmare", with issues ranging from 4am noise pollution to cars coated in dust.

A 'Hell Hole' of Construction Chaos

Gary Armstrong, a 48-year-old British Army veteran who has lived in the area for 14 years, has become the voice of the disenchanted residents. Armstrong claims that his life has been disrupted by construction traffic flooding the streets seven days a week. "I feel like I'm living in a hell hole," he lamented. According to Armstrong, his campervan and car have both been "covered in thick dust" due to the nearby construction activities.

A Wake-Up Call, Literally

Not only are the streets filled with construction vehicles, but Armstrong also reports that the noise starts disturbingly early. "Deliveries come as early as 4am on Sundays," he said. "The sound of rattling gates being opened wakes up the entire neighbourhood."

Empty Promises and Shifting Blame

Though Gleeson Homes took over from Bellway as the primary developer for the Acklam Gardens estate, it seems that the woes have not abated. Armstrong, who has worked in the security industry for over two decades and understands construction protocols, is particularly incensed by what he sees as "fake promises" from Gleeson Homes. The developer initially stated that an alternative access road for construction traffic was in the works but has yet to deliver on that claim.

A Risk to Public Safety

Armstrong goes further to say that the congestion is more than just an annoyance—it's a genuine health and safety risk. He pointed out an incident where a fire engine had difficulty navigating due to cars parked on both sides of Mattison Avenue. "I'm worried in case a child gets knocked over," Armstrong warned.

Developer's Response

In response to the outcries, a spokesperson for Gleeson Homes stated that the company is "carefully investigating" the matters raised by Armstrong and other residents. "The site access entrance at Acklam Gardens is being relocated, as had always been planned as part of the development's progression," the spokesperson added.

However, Armstrong remains sceptical. "They've been promising that for months. In my opinion, they have no intention of relocating the access point," he retorted.

A Community in Distress

The ordeal has left many residents questioning whether Gleeson Homes genuinely cares about the well-being of the communities where they operate. Armstrong summarized the sentiment best: "I know they need to build houses, but there is no respect for residents. It's annoying."

The ball is now in Gleeson Homes' court. Will they address these grievances adequately, or will the residents of Whinney Banks continue to endure this construction calamity? Only time will tell.