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New text alert service to make it easier to report potholes and problem pavements One issue that comes up time and time again in my postbag, and at my twice-weekly surgeries and regular coffee mornings, is the very poor state of North East Somerset’s roads and pavements. Neglected road surfaces and pavements aren’t just a nuisance, they can be dangerous.
But time after time, residents tell me B&NES Council doesn't treat our neighbourhood roads and pavements seriously – apparently unaware of the perils they pose.
So potholes stay unmended, and uneven pavements get worse. Pedestrians and cyclists risk injury, and motorists face car damage repair bills.
Although it really should be straightforward to get these things fixed, many residents have then approached me, having reached their wit’s end. Thankfully in very many cases my own approaches to the Council, on behalf of these constituents, have resulted in positive action being taken.
So I’ve now set up a brand new text service to help anyone easily report potholes and problem pavements. Unlike the Council’s phone line, my pothole alert service can be used any time day or night.
If you’re getting bumped around when you’re driving or cycling - or if you think your neighbourhood pavements deserve better – please text my new Pothole Alert service and I’ll work for you to get B&NES to fix them.
It’s very simple to use. Just text the location you want to report to 07852 293687 with your name and your own home postcode (eg PAVEMENT OUTSIDE 1 HIGH STREET, PENSFORD, JANE SMITH, BS39 4XX).
I’ll take up the case, keeping you updated on progress. Of course you can also report a pothole using traditional pen and paper by writing to Dan Norris MP, House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA. Written for the Chew Valley Gazette October 2009 |
To
make matters worse, too often I’m told by constituents of cases where
their calls to the Council offices, or to councillors elected to serve
them, have simply not produced the action required to put things right.