ANDRIA – A bad example of how citizens’ generosity can prove in vain over the years. This is the case of Piazza Santa Maria Vetere, in Andria, which today is in a state of degradation that has been going on for too long. Bricks lifted by tree roots, avenue lighting system damaged, general neglect and then the total state of abandonment of the children’s playground: broken rides, ruined flooring and conditions far from the safety of the little ones.
In 2020 that same playground was redeveloped at the expense of residents and businesses overlooking Piazza Santa Maria Vetere. An undoubtedly generous initiative which however, over the years, proved useless given the conditions that park is in today. There was evidently a lack of constant and punctual maintenance.
«The square is a bit messy, more dogs than people come – says an elderly man who frequents the area every day -. It should be tidied up. The bricks are raised, walking is dangerous.” «The square sucks – says another citizen who frequents the square -. Dog owners do not collect waste. There should be more controls and fines by the municipality. Plus there is that play area which is not presentable for children.” “The square is ruined, in some places you can’t walk,” says a resident.
Warning to which the observations of the operators are added. «The trees are not pruned, people fall, tripping on the raised tiles – said Nicola Fiorentino, historic owner of a bar overlooking Piazza Santa Maria Vetere -. The playground is abandoned. At the time of the vote they show that everything should be done, and instead nothing is done”, concluded Fiorentino.
And the situation does not improve by moving to via Arimondi, in another busy little square, not far from piazza Santa Maria Vetere. Some unsafe pine trees have been removed here, but the elderly and business owners ask that other trees be planted that can provide a bit of coolness, especially in summer.
«What I want to denounce is a general degradation of the Santa Maria Vetere neighborhood, one of the largest in the city of Andria – said Giuseppe Bartolomucci, another shopkeeper in the area -. What’s strange is that during the election campaign they come to ask for votes and then forget about the area. That’s not good,” he underlined. From the city hall they make it known that they are aware of the situation. One wonders: when will action be taken?
