TWO SETS of ‘dangerous’ and ‘unmaintained’ steps in Droitwich have finally been made safe thanks to the efforts of two of the town’s Conservative councillors.
The steps on Salwarpe Road (pictured) leading down to both banks of the Droitwich Canal had been unmaintained for 40 years, leaving them in a poor and unsafe state.
Droitwich Spa Town Councillor, Dave Davidson, took on the task of restoring the steps after various concerns from residents, particularly elderly, about their steepness and lack of handrails.
“The first neighbourhood problem I heard about after being elected was the dangerous Salwarpe Road steps.
“An elderly resident said she felt unsafe on them and another local resident told me that there had been accidents resulting in visits to A&E.
“The steps were overgrown, slippery and so dangerous that I was scared to use them now I am getting older,” said Coun Davidson.
After continued back and forth to establish who was responsible for their maintenance – County Highways and the Canals and Rivers Trust were ruled out.
Wychavon District Council were later understood to be responsible for the towpath side, and quickly agreed to fit hand-railings on this side.
Later, thanks to the support of fellow Conservative and Wychavon District councillor George Duffy, the district council were also established as responsible for the Ledwych estate side.
Coun Duffy said: “I want to thank Coun Davidson and his neighbours for showing us an area we could improve.
“I feel it’s great this part of town has been made safer and more accessible for residents.
“If residents are aware of any other dangerous areas then it’s worth getting in touch with district councillors for help.”
Both sets of stairs have been maintained and now have safety hand-railing fitted to aid residents on their descent.
“Maybe we’ve saved one more visit to A&E,” Coun Davidson added.
Wychavon District Council and Coun George Duffy, in his role as a Droitwich Spa Town councillor have been approached for comment.
