Fordbank Road: Pavements

Dangerous pavement

Although pavements on a number of local roads have been tarmacked in recent years, there are still some that remain highly dangerous after years of neglect. The above photograph was taken on Fordbank Road near its junction with Dene Road. This is one of the oldest pavements on the estate and is mostly in an advanced state of decay and danger. Here, the paving is cracked and uneven and slopes towards the road. In addition, the manhole cover protrudes. It is quite easy for any pedestrian – young or old – to trip up and have a serious fall or, in winter, to slip on the snowy or frosty sloping surface. A few yards ahead, by the metal box, another manhole cover lies level with new flags. The car is parked slightly on the pavement but enough space has been allowed for pedestrians to pass – but it would still be a squeeze for a parent pushing a pram with other children in tow.

Cars, vans, lorries and heavy goods vehicles parked on pavements have all contributed, over many decades, to the damage to kerbs and pavements alike. Another annoyance is the propensity of some motorists to park on pavements adjacent to front garden vegetation that has been allowed to overgrow and encroach over part of the pavement – a problem leading to pedestrians having to walk out into the middle of the road.

Although a purely personal view, it would be nice if all residents on the estate could adopt a sense of civic pride and responsibility and take a few minutes every so often to tidy up outside their properties – removing weeds, litter and other debris that are eyesores. Council workers do come round and do their best but, in this current period of financial restraints, their visits are somewhat infrequent.  Residents who are fit, healthy and have the time could perhaps engage in a little self-help to keep their road tidy.

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