‘IT JUST SEEMS SUCH A WASTE OF MONEY’
Anger as new pavements set to be dug up after 6 months
FAMILIES are calling for better communication over the timing of utility works as their pavements look set to be dug up – just six months after being resurfaced.
Residents on Bagnall Road, in Milton, have been enjoying the benefits of their newly-laid pavements for months.
But that is all set to change as Lilaconnect prepares to carry out broadband installation works.
It has sent a letter to residents informing them of the works.
Supply teacher Helen Hutt, from Milton, said: “It just seems such a waste of money. They should try to organise things a little better.”
Accountant Chris Richardson, aged 28, added: “It seems like a bit of a waste.”
The row over the works comes as Stoke-on-trent City Council wants to become a so-called permitting authority.
It would require permits for most road and street works before schemes are approved.
Ward councillor Dave Evans said: “I am incredibly disappointed. I raised this issue when the pavements were being laid. This repeated disorganisation around pavement and roadworks in the city is completely unacceptable.
“That’s why I am backing calls for the council to become a permitting authority.”
Lilaconnect is working across Stoke-on-trent to provide faster and more reliable broadband.
The new network will provide internet speeds 30 times faster than superfast broadband.
While existing broadband utilises fibre optic cables, homes and businesses are linked to the network via copper wires.
Full-fibre broadband means the fibre optic cables are installed right into the buildings, allowing for much faster speeds.
In a letter to Bagnall Road residents, Lilaconnect said: “Our roadworks teams will soon be in your area to bring the network to your street.
“With any innovation comes disruption, but it is our absolute priority to ensure that this work is carried out as efficiently as possible and that any disruption is kept to a minimum.”