Business owners slam ‘diabolical’ pavements

BUSINESS owners in Barnstaple’s Butcher’s Row have labelled the road and pavements ‘diabolical’.

The road regularly sees large lorries and vans bringing stock to the food shops and market on the road – which bakery owner Graham Principe believes is the root of the problem.

“It could do with losing a few feet either side of pavement and putting down a new road surface,” he said.

“On the pavements, I see people tripping all the time.

“The businesses here need as much help as we can get. I love this town and want it to be the best it can be.”

Mr Principe believes the county council could better maintain the road.

“They use dry cement which breaks up and makes a mess,” he said. “I know funds are tight but just filling up the holes isn’t working.”

Jane Gratton, of Gratton’s Butchers, highlighted the dangers to elderly shoppers.

“The pavements are diabolical,” she said. “It’s a hazard for people walking up here if they’re able-bodied, let alone for older people.”

In response, Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council cabinet member for highways, said: “Pothole safety defects on A, B and busier C roads have to be repaired by the end of the next working day, and on minor roads and unclassified roads in one week of being reported.”