Resident complains over failure to clear out drains and gullies

ROADS in Bradford on Avon are being left to degenerate says angry Tom Mercer, who has complained to Wiltshire Council about how the drains and gullies in his road remain uncleared.

Mr Mercer, 63, of St Laurence Road, raised his concerns after weeds started growing out of drains and cracks in the tarmac in his street over the summer.

He has since lodged several complaints with Wiltshire Council and has spoken to eight different people while following up his complaint.

He said: “Wiltshire Council are very understanding and they do say that they will do something with the roads but nothing happens.”

Mr Mercer, who has lived in the town for 20 years, sent photos alongside his complaints to show how contractors Balfour Beatty is neglecting cutting the grass.

He added: “I think they do more damage than good. I think Wiltshire Council should be using local contractors, local services or even the town council take control. That way someone can be more answerable.”

“Both Wiltshire Council and Balfour Beatty are diverting their attention rather than solving it.”

He also has concerns over the road condition if future housing development plans go ahead on Bradford on Avon golf course, where St Laurence Road will be the main access point.

Cllr Ian Thorn, who has responsibility for Bradford on Avon South, has regularly questioned Balfour Beatty’s standard of work and has called for Wiltshire Council to seriously review their performance within the community.

He said: “I think the people of Bradford on Avon are very nice and polite but this doesn’t work when talking to Balfour Beatty.

“There needs to be a complete review by Wiltshire Council to try and claw back the fees which the taxpayer is paying for this service.”

A Wiltshire Council spokesman said: “Our contractors have doubled the number of gully tankers provided to ensure all the council’s gullies are emptied at the earliest opportunity. We will continue to prioritise extra gully emptying to manage any potential flooding issues.”

The council said that a gully tanker has been operating in Bradford on Avon this week and St Laurence Road is on the list for clearing.