Godmanchester Town Council have issued an important update regarding the halt on maintenance work at the Rec.

Residents of the Huntingdonshire town expressed their disappoint in how the Rec was being left as a result of an ongoing land dispute between Godmanchester Town Council and Huntingdonshire District Council.

The dispute concerns the ownership of Godmanchester Rec, with neither council laying claim to it and instead stating that the other owns it.

As a result, Godmanchester Town Council decided to halt all ground work that takes place at the Rec as they don't consider themselves the landowners, including grass cutting and bin emptying, which is why many locals were frustrated with the state of the area.

However, following on from a Godmanchester Town Council meeting on July 30, it has now been confirmed that maintenance work will resume at the park effective immediately.

In a statement, a spokesperson for Godmanchester Town Council said: "On July 30, Godmanchester Town Council voted unanimously to reinstate the grounds maintenance on the Recreation Ground including the Queens Walk area. 

"Today (July 31), we have received confirmation from our insurance provider that they are happy for us to proceed with this. Notwithstanding the land ownership/Riparian Rights issue, the Council will reinstate these works as far as we are able to do so and without prejudice.

"Fergusons have confirmed that the emptying of the bins will start from tomorrow (August 1) but due to the rain forecast for tomorrow, the grass cutting may have to wait until early next week."

The statement from Godmanchester Town Council came at the same time Huntingdonshire District Council issued an update on the situation from their side.

A spokesperson for Huntingdonshire District Council said: "We met with Godmanchester Town Council today (July 30). As part of the discussions, Godmanchester Town Council put forward a new verbal proposal which we have asked for in writing to consider.

"We understand the ongoing concerns that many residents have expressed and remain committed to resolving this matter as soon as possible."