Chester‘s unique and historic Rows now have their own caretaker to help keep the area cleaned and maintained.
Funded by Cheshire West and Chester Council, Dale Dean is working closely with Chester Renaissance and the city’s retailers and is on duty at the busiest times, including weekends.
He said: “I’m really enjoying the work. You get out and about, continue cleaning the Rows which has been started by Streetscene staff from very early in the morning and in the afternoon I concentrate on a different area each day, giving it special attention.”
Rita Waters, Chief Executive of Chester Renaissance, said: “Renaissance has listened to the concerns of retailers about the appearance and cleanliness of the Rows, and worked with the Council whose positive response has resulted in this dedicated Rows resource.
“This will really help to improve the visitors experience and make our city one that we can be really proud to promote.”
Councillor Lynn Riley, Executive Member for Community and Environment, said: “Dale has been a great hit with shop owners and staff and his work helps showcase the Rows in a way that benefits its historic value and iconic appearance.
“His post is dedicated to the Rows and he will not be moved to work elsewhere in the city.
“I would also like to thank Grosvenor Shopping Centre for providing a service base for Dale.”
Andree Reynolds, from Model Zone in Bridge Street Row, said: “I have never seen the Rows looking so clean. Dale does a great job.”
Local City ward Councillors, Cllr Tom Parry, Cllr Richard Lowe and Cllr Max Drury, have welcomed the initiative.
Added Councillor Drury: “Dale’s role builds on the good work already carried out by Streetscene and means that he can concentrate primarily on making sure that the Rows are seen to their best advantage by residents and visitors alike.”
Photo caption: Roz Munslow from Chester Renaissance, Yvonne Whitby from Powells Jewellers (Eastgate Row), Councillor Richard Lowe, Andy Moulton from Streetscene, Councillor Max Drury, Rows Caretaker Dale Dean and Andree Reynolds from Model Zone (Bridge Street Row).