Excessive Gravel Accumulation Creating Safety, Drainage and Maintenance Concerns

In addition to the deterioration of the road surface, Western Way is experiencing a significant accumulation of loose gravel and debris along the kerbsides. This material, which appears to be the result of the ongoing breakdown of the carriageway surface, presents a number of safety and maintenance concerns.

The loose aggregate creates hazards for road users, particularly cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians, by reducing traction and increasing the risk of slips, falls and loss of control. It is also obstructing the effective drainage of surface water by accumulating along the kerb line and around gullies, increasing the likelihood of standing water and further damage to the road structure.

Furthermore, the volume of material now present is such that routine road sweeping alone is unlikely to be sufficient. In many areas, the gravel has accumulated in substantial deposits that would require mechanical collection and removal before a road sweeper could effectively maintain the area. The continued presence of this material not only detracts from the appearance of the Estate but also indicates that the underlying carriageway defects remain unresolved and continue to generate further debris.

I would therefore request that the Council arrange for the removal of the accumulated gravel as a matter of priority and advise what measures will be taken both to restore the effectiveness of the drainage system and to address the underlying road surface failures that are causing the problem.