Not everything is broken. From climate delivery to real regeneration in Birkenhead, Wirral Council is starting to show signs of progress. Here’s why that matters. Tags: Wirral Council, Birkenhead regeneration, public services, climate action, local government, COVID response, accountability

This week, I read in The Guardian that Folkestone’s controversial harbour redevelopment plan had finally been approved: 410 new homes, 54 commercial units, right on the waterfront. The council voted it through. And the tone wasn’t triumph — it was resignation. “We cannot block the blocks,” one councillor said. It was less a victory than a surrender.

Connor Hilton didn't start as a pizzaiolo. His story didn't begin with dough recipes passed down through generations or culinary training from a prestigious chef. Instead, it started with a spark of creativity, a bold opportunity, and the supportive spirit of New Brighton's vibrant community.

If you’d wandered down Victoria Road in New Brighton back in early 2018, you might have noticed a bit of a bleak canvas—tired concrete corners, unloved traffic boxes, a street needing more than just sunlight. It needed imagination. It needed someone willing to plant a seed.

This isn’t about negativity. It’s about systems that don’t work, decisions that aren’t visible, and a structure that makes it almost impossible for residents to follow what’s really happening.

This post supports my recent article, Bin the Bollards, by detailing how I sourced and verified crash data on Duke Street. It shows step by step how the evidence doesn’t support the claim that wand orcas are needed for cyclist safety.

Stand on Kings Parade and look down towards the lifeguard station—the one watching over the tide like a sentry in a hi-vis vest.

This is New Brighton. Yes, New Brighton.” – Dom Joly on His Unexpected Night Out

This piece was written in direct response to Environment, Climate Emergency and Transport Committee - Monday, 16th June 2025 6.00 p.m decision to approve the Duke Street Active Travel Scheme.