Petition calling for repairs to 'dangerous' roads in Stotfold presented to council
A 484-signature petition from residents calling for urgent repairs to two roads in Stotfold, dubbed “dangerous” and “horrendous”, has been presented to a local authority.
Resurfacing work on the High Street is scheduled for July, a Central Bedfordshire Council traffic management meeting heard, however extensive repairs to parts of Hitchin Road will take longer to achieve, as a separate approach is necessary to review and finance the repairs required.
The petition asked the council “to resurface the High Street and repair potholes in Hitchin Road that are a danger to vehicles and cyclists”.
It said: “Resurfacing of the High Street has been on the schedule of works for several years, but hasn’t been completed yet. The carriageway was due to be resurfaced at the same time as Baldock Road.
“The High Street surface is disintegrating, with cables showing in some areas. Only temporary repairs have been attempted and these often fail within weeks.
“Hitchin Road and the High Street are two of the main thoroughfares in the town and are dangerous for vehicles and cyclists. These were among the most common issues reported, during a request for residents to log FixMyStreet cases (with the council).
“It’s requested that Central Bedfordshire Council (CBC) highways takes action to resurface the High Street and repair Hitchin Road as soon as possible.”
Mayor of Stotfold Jon Smith, who chairs the town council, told the meeting: “Halfway through the petition period, we received notice that the (High Street) resurfacing work would be scheduled for July and we really appreciate that.
“There are multiple areas on Hitchin Road which require work,” he explained. “We understand it’s unrealistic to ask for resurfacing of stretches along that route.
“But there are patches which would benefit from sealed repairs, rather than the temporary ones which lasted only a couple of weeks during the winter. Residents would be extremely grateful for any work done in these areas.
“The sections affected are dangerous for cyclists, and it’s part of a national cycle route.”
Reform UK Stotfold councillor Marion Mason said: “I’ve been in touch with CBC highways because of all the damage to these roads.
“Hitchin Road is horrendous and it’s a main thoroughfare. With all the developments locally, this will continue with the increased traffic.
"It’s actually quite dangerous. I suggest a review and then some or all of the work is done.
“The High Street is scheduled for its normal maintenance between July 13th and 31st.”
Independent Arlesey and Fairfield councillor Jodie Chillery warned: “I know it’s not my ward, but it’s particularly bad along there.
“I want to represent Fairfield residents, as Hitchin Road continues the main route to school that children are making. We’ve made part of the cycle path much better, but then they enter Hitchin Road and there are significant potholes.”
Independent Aspley and Woburn councillor John Baker, who chaired the meeting, confirmed: “I think the best thing is to speak to CBC’s head of highway maintenance Emma Murden.
“It becomes operational around any defects to local roads. This meeting deals with traffic safety schemes.
“The petition is noted. There are two very active ward members here, who will pester the correct officers and move the town council’s concerns forward.”
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