HUNDREDS of people who signed a petition to get essential repair work carried out on St Thomas’ Road footpath in Trowbridge are relieved to hear that improvements have finally started.

The footpath, which has been described as ‘threadbare’ by those who live on the road, is currently being repaired by Wiltshire Council a year after the petition was submitted.

Kathy Wyllie, who owns Diamond News on St Thomas Road, was one of those who first launched the petition. She managed to obtain around 300 signatures but was originally told it would cost too much money to carry out.

She said: “It is great news that the council are doing work on the footpath.

“It was so dangerous with overgrown shrubs, cracks and holes in the pavement.

“When I walked to work at 6am in the morning I would walk on the other side of the road as I didn’t want to risk tripping over.

“One winter I saw five people slip over and break their hips.

“People use the path to get to the shop, I care about my customers and the community and didn’t want to see anyone else injured so I am thrilled it is getting repaired and should last a very long time.”

The work has now begun and is due to be finished on July 12.

A spokesman from Wiltshire Council said: “Footway improvement works are programmed to take place along St Thomas Road in Trowbridge.

“These works involve excavation and resurfacing of the existing footway and crossings between the footway and the carriageway with new material.

“Due to the nature of the required works and the local environment, the works are to be carried utilising temporary traffic signals, to ensure that adequate health and safety is maintained for local residents and the contractor.

“The works will be undertaken in phases commencing at the roundabout with The Halve and working towards the junction with Grasmere.

“Durations may vary slightly as the work commences. Working hours will be 7am-5pm.

“Site staff will be readily available to discuss individual access and egress requirements during this scheme.

“The contractor has undertaken a letter drop to residents prior to work commencing.”