VARIOUS public bodies in South Lakeland are spending hundreds of thousands of pounds of our money creating cycle paths and landscaping small areas of land in Kendal. A new expensive website encourages tourism.

In the meantime, the primary attraction of Kendal, its castle, is a neglected and unloved mess.

A minuscule amount of money has been spent upgrading a path on the west side and updating the information boards.

However, the other three access routes, the ones that are most popular, are muddy and treacherous for nine months of the year. The inaccessible scrub around the castle walls is littered with cans, glass and plastic. Even the rabbits are complaining.

Hundreds of small trees have been planted on the slopes and the plastic protection used now litters the site.

The nearby playground has been moved nearer to the castle grounds so families with push chairs and small children now face a 200-yard muddy, puddle-ridden walk along the footpath to swings and slides that were designed in the 1970s.

People walking to work or shopping in town along the same path face the same. Who goes shopping in wellies! The only usable car park near the castle is badly potholed and flooded after the smallest shower.

Its an embarrassing shambles! It's not caused by a bad winter, it's under investment and poor maintenance.

What is the reaction of the tourist who slides and slithers up to see our prime attraction? Disappointment! "The views are good, but the rest?"

What about us locals who attempt to use the grounds regularly, hoping we don't fall and dislocate an ankle?

After we've wiped the mud of our feet and washed the children and the dogs, we wonder why our taxes are being spent on cycle tracks and landscaping that benefit the few at the expense of the many.

Bob Swindle

Kendal

l Editor's note: The Westmorland Gazette contacted South Lakeland District Council after receiving Mr Swindle's letter and here is a reponse from its spokesperson.

A number of improvements are helping to make the historic site more accessible and enjoyable.

South Lakeland District Council, together with Cumbria County Council and Kendal Town Council, have contributed £32,000 to upgrade and resurface pathways to allow safer access from the town centre.

A number of tracks do tend to become muddy in wet weather. These are not public rights of way.

The playground has been moved to a better location, with improved equipment. The BMX track has been rebuilt and fencing replaced. Signage has also been improved.

These improvements and enhancements will enable residents and visitors to continue exploring and enjoying one of South Lakeland’s most treasured sites.