County declares war on cul-de-sacs

10.44.00pm GMT Fri 27th Nov 2009

County declares war on cul-de-sacs

Herts County Council have suddenly decided that in future, they will not allow new cul-de-sacs to be 'adopted', that is, become normal highways. This means that cul-de-sacs are likely to have

· no repairs to the road or footway unless the residents pay for it,

· no lighting,

· no emptying of drains

· no road markings.

·

Additionally the district council would

· not clear autumn leaves,

· not keep the gutters

· clear provide any parking restrictions that were necessary.

Malcolm Cowan, LibDem county and borough councillor said 'It is clear this would make these residents second-class citizens, paying the same council tax but receiving far less services.

'The new policy flies in the face of all the evidence that cul-de-sacs provide lower crime rates and better neighbourhood cohesion and the advice to use cul-de-sacs in new designs to reduce traffic.

Malcolm added 'It is one of the most baffling decisions I have ever encountered by a local council. It was not even properly trailed to the committee that ratified it. The papers sent out in advance talked of not adopting roads with 4 or less houses, then suddenly it became all cul-de-sacs. This is bound to have a major change on design of new developments, unless we can reverse it.'

For further information, contact Malcolm Cowan on 01707 324723