Drains and gullies in Ludlow’s Market Square are to be repaired – amid claims broken covers are a hazard to pedestrians.

The gullies along part of Castle Street have been left open to the elements since work was carried out to clear out the drains shortly before Christmas after complaints were made about the smell. But baker Peter Cook said cars were still parking in the area, despite warning cones.

Mr Cook, who runs Price the Bakers in the square, said the open gullies were a risk to pedestrians who could injure themselves.

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Shropshire Council officials have said the work has been delayed while purpose-made drain covers are finished, and have pledged to carry out the repairs within the next few weeks.

Mr Cook said: “It is dangerous for people, as there is a chance people could turn their ankle in the gullies and injure themselves.

“I nearly fell down them once.

“Cones have been out but some get moved or go missing and cars are still parking there.

“It is unsightly too, especially as it is in the main area of the town.”

Michael Price, who runs a fishmonger’s stall on the Market Square in Ludlow , said: “There has been a problem with the smell for a long time, ever since they carried out the enhancement work.”

Councillor Simon Jones, Shropshire Council’s cabinet member responsible for transport and highways, said drainage channels had deteriorated and worn away, meaning they could no longer support the grids that sit on top of them.

Councillor Jones said: “We regularly clean out drainage gullies to ensure they are working well, but in this case it has transpired that a more long-term solution was needed.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused, and can assure local residents and businesses that the new channels will be installed as soon as possible.”

Councillor Rosanna Taylor-Smith, Shropshire councillor for Ludlow North, said: “We have tried to get these gully channels replaced as quickly as we can, and apologise to residents and businesses in the Market Square area for the delay.

“I hope the channels will be installed within the next month at the latest.”