Path proves a stumbling block

NO way through . . . Ann Cowen points out how cars continually block the path to her home

Elderly and disabled residents in a Chadderton cul-de-sac say selfish drivers are blocking the only path to their homes.

The Canal Street householders want a hatched area painted to stop selfish motorists blocking the pedestrian access, especially to help wheelchair and walking stick users.

But South Chadderton councillor, Dave Hibbert, claims the council will not help because of the spending freeze.

The houses, managed by First Choice Homes Oldham, were originally built for elderly and disabled people, but now younger residents are also tenants.

One resident said: “I have a visitor in a wheelchair, but she has to phone ahead to see if the path is clear so she can get to our house.

“The only other way round is across a grass verge, not ideal with a wheelchair.

“We just need a hatched area to stop people parking.”

Councillor Hibbert said: “The council refused our request for immediate action on the basis that no funding is available and that it may be possible to do the work in the new financial year. I have heard similar complaints from fellow councillors in near-by parts of the borough. However, this does not match up with budget statements. The Liberal Democrats are building up massive reserves of cash — millions of pounds higher than what is required by the Government.

“In order to do so, they are compromising residents’ safety and unnecessarily inconveniencing elderly and vulnerable people.”

Oldham Council’s director for highways and infrastructure, Tony Noblet, said the council is unaware of requests from Canal Street and added: “We are always reluctant to put parking restrictions in residential areas, as this can have a negative effect of the community as a whole.

“But if residents would like restrictions on their road, they should write to the council explaining the problem with parking and access, and the problem will then be assessed.”