Stadium road ‘one of worst for potholes’
DERBY COUNTY FANS QUIZ COUNCILLOR ABOUT REPAIRS
A DERBY councillor is getting inundated with messages and complaints about the poor state of a busy Derby road next to Pride Park Stadium.
Sarah Chambers says the potholefilled Royal Way “is probably one of the worst roads to drive over” in the city and has called on Derby City Council to take immediate action – despite it not being in the ward she represents.
The Sinfin councillor, who goes to Derby County home and away games, said she receives frequent complaints and inquiries from fellow Rams fans at matches about the poor condition of the road and when she is out and about in Alvaston.
When a Derby Telegraph reporter visited the road yesterday, motorists were seen slowing down before approaching a series of potholes near to the Pride Park Stadium entrance lane.
There was also a warning sign lying flat down on the pavement surface saying “uneven road surface”. One motorist was seen slightly moving into the wrong side of the road in an attempt to avoid driving on the potholes.
In response to Councillor Chambers’ concerns, Derby City Council confirmed improvement works will take place in June as warmer weather is required for the resurfacing materials to work best.
But Cllr Chambers said she is urging more urgent work to be done before June to protect motorists and pedestrians. She said: “It’s probably one of the worst roads I have to drive over. You kind of have to swerve around. I’ve recently had two new tyres because of potholes so I’m obviously conscious of driving, especially that particular stretch. It really has deteriorated.
“There are several reasons I’ve involved myself in the state of Royal Way, which runs in front of Pride Park’s entrance, even though it’s not my ward.
“I’m asked by several members of the public every game when the road is going to be repaired.
“I go out with the Alvaston
Labour team every week on door knocking sessions, and it’s something that is raised time and time again. I have been assured by our highways maintenance department that the stretch of road is scheduled to be resurfaced in June.
“I have asked that the road be inspected, and temporary repairs actioned in the interim.”
Derby City Council said work on Royal Way could take place sooner if it is found more urgent work is required. A council spokesperson said: “Royal Way was identified as requiring attention through the council’s annual condition survey and added to the 2024/2025 work programme. “Resurfacing works are due to begin in June for approximately 10 days, however the date may change if other more urgent works take priority.
“Warmer weather is needed to use the materials required for the works, which is why the area is due to be resurfaced in the summer.
“Our teams will continue to closely monitor the road and are completing temporary repairs where necessary.”
I’m asked by several members of the public at every game when the road is going to be repaired. Cllr Chambers