Anger over long-term flooding on Shropshire road
Residents have hit out at Shropshire Council for failing to repair a busy stretch of road that has been flooding for more than two years.
The road, which runs from the B5476 at Creamore Bank to the B5063 at Horton, near Wem, is used every day by cars, lorries and tractors as the signposted route to travel between Whitchurch and Loppington.
But residents say it has deteriorated considerably over the past two years with Shropshire Council failing to make any repairs despite it providing access to homes and at least three businesses.
Mike Farmer, from Horton, said: "Well over two years ago residents of the area drew to the attention of Shropshire Council a flooded section of the road.
"We were informed that a culvert had collapsed and it would be repaired shortly.
"In early 2013 we were informed that it would be repaired during the summer and, when nothing happened, we were informed it would be repaired before the end of the year.
"It has still not been repaired and, as far as I am aware, the council has made no apology for failing to repair the road and at this time has not informed anyone of any potential work."
Next month Wales & West Utilities has announced plans to upgrade the gas network next month in parts Wem, including the High Street.
The work, which is set to take about eight weeks to complete, is due to start at the beginning of February and will also see delays to Market Street, Aston Street and Leek Street. Mr Farmer said he fears the works will lead more drivers travelling along the flooded road. He said: "I have recently noted the closure of Wem High Street and I am very concerned. This can only result in more traffic using the unclassified route which will result in further damage to the road."
Mr Farmer added he believes if the road was in or near Shrewsbury it would have been repaired by now. He said: "The road is regularly in use by all types and sizes of vehicles from cars to large animal feed trailers and tractors with trailers attached.The road It provides access to at least three businesses and overseas lorries are a regular feature.
"I wonder how many people living in Shrewsbury or any of the built-up areas of Shropshire would tolerate having a flood like this within 100 yards of their house for over two years."
Councillor Claire Wild, cabinet member for highways, said work will be carried out soon.
She said: "We're aware of some damage to a drain on this stretch of road, and engineers are due to carry out repairs in the very near future which should solve the flooding problems. The work will take place on the verge next to the road so there will be no need to close the road while repairs take place," she said.
