I WRITE in response to the letter printed on your page on Monday, November 10 regarding St James’ Square, Boscombe.

This area, reminiscent of a smaller version of a London Square, has been carefully updated and turned into a Home Zone, in a way that is resident-friendly and welcoming.

Your correspondent, herself a resident of St James’ Square, is right that the lighting is of a Victorian style and unique to St James’ Square.

Unfortunately, the part required to repair it has been a very long time in arriving, so a temporary fix will be implemented as the dark evenings are upon us now.

I can assure all readers that our award-winning parks department are proud of each and every green space throughout the borough and they are all given attention as and when required and in turn.

It will be understood that at a time when we are under enormous pressure to work in an as economically careful way as possible, our staff cannot be everywhere at once, and this area will be tidied for the winter before too long.

I am sure that the special and bespoke children’s play area is very well used all year round, and is the envy of children in other areas who do not have that facility on their doorstep.

Often across Bournemouth, residents’ associations are formed, who can join together and make a real difference to their particular area.

There is a very successful group in Pokesdown who have planted bulbs and enhanced their green in a fantastic way.

Perhaps there are enthusiastic people in St James’ Square who would like to use their expertise, or increase their gardening knowledge, by creating such a group.

Support for community groups is always on hand from the council, mainly in the form of your local councillors, and I know that the member for Boscombe East, Cllr Chris Rochester, is very supportive and willing to chat to anyone wishing to start a local Friends Group.

CLLR JANE KELLY, Boscombe West Ward, cabinet member for partnerships, regeneration and public health