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Why is the white lining on a stretch of road not being replaced?
I recently wrote to our local highways authority as follows:
“I use the road regularly, sometimes at night, to travel between Potton and the A1. You will, of course, be aware that part of this road has recently been resurfaced, but has not yet had the white-lining replaced. I, and other local drivers find this most disconcerting and indeed dangerous, (particularly in bad visibility), and would urge you to carry out this work as soon as possible. Your early attention will hopefully avoid a potentially serious accident. While on this subject, would I be correct in thinking that that the upkeep of road white-lining is no longer a priority function, and is being seriously delayed in an effort to save money? I look forward with interest to your reply.”
The following is what I think is a most unsatisfactory response:
“Thank you for contacting customer services. The stretch of road has now been completed and white lines were painted at the crossroads junction and the first bend after. These were identified as hazard spots. The rest of the road is not considered to warrant having lines at this time.”
Most of the resurfaced road has been left without lines. My view is simply that if white lining is considered the correct and safe thing to do, then it should be properly maintained at all times as a matter of priority. You will observe that they have completely ignored my remarks concerning priorities and the financial aspect.
“I use the road regularly, sometimes at night, to travel between Potton and the A1. You will, of course, be aware that part of this road has recently been resurfaced, but has not yet had the white-lining replaced. I, and other local drivers find this most disconcerting and indeed dangerous, (particularly in bad visibility), and would urge you to carry out this work as soon as possible. Your early attention will hopefully avoid a potentially serious accident. While on this subject, would I be correct in thinking that that the upkeep of road white-lining is no longer a priority function, and is being seriously delayed in an effort to save money? I look forward with interest to your reply.”
The following is what I think is a most unsatisfactory response:
“Thank you for contacting customer services. The stretch of road has now been completed and white lines were painted at the crossroads junction and the first bend after. These were identified as hazard spots. The rest of the road is not considered to warrant having lines at this time.”
Most of the resurfaced road has been left without lines. My view is simply that if white lining is considered the correct and safe thing to do, then it should be properly maintained at all times as a matter of priority. You will observe that they have completely ignored my remarks concerning priorities and the financial aspect.
Asked on 26 January 2013 by NW, Potton, Bedfordshire
Answered by
Honest John
Wait for a crash on the road. If it is fatal, offer your letter and the council's response to the inevitable inquiry as evidence. In the meantime, remind the council that this is what you propose to do. The fear of a multi-million pound malfeasance liability suit might provoke some action.
Tags:
motorways
legal advice
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