The Shrewsbury £1 wonky pavement challenge unveiled by councillor

Councillor Chris Lemon, who represents Radbrook on Shrewsbury Town Council for the Green Party, says that the uneven pavements on Rad Valley Road on the Oakfield Estate pose a real risk for residents, especially those who are visually impaired, have young children in pushchairs, or use mobility aids.

After raising the issue with Shropshire Council, he says the local authority will only act if the gaps between the paving slabs are wider than a £1 coin.

It prompted him to return with a coin to measure the gaps himself. The results, he says, prove that the footpaths need urgent attention.

“Residents on Rad Valley Road are disappointed and worried about the state of the footpaths in the area,” said Cllr Lemon.

“The pavements are unsightly and also dangerous. I’ve been told Shropshire Council will only take action if the gaps between paving slabs are wide enough to merit repairs, which is why I’ve been walking the streets of the Oakfield Estate armed with a £1 coin to measure them.

“Based on their own rules, these paving slabs need urgent attention.

“Neglecting the pavements in this area has a real impact on residents, especially those with mobility or sight issues – as well as parents with buggies, prams, and young children. After listening to residents’ complaints, I’m calling on Shropshire Council’s Highways team to prioritise this.”

Lindsey Rowlands, who is a guide dog user, added: “It is not a nice feeling when you are nervous about going out for a walk knowing that whichever way you walk on leaving your house, there is a very good chance you will end up getting hurt.

“I am a totally blind guide dog user and so cannot see where the paving slabs have moved and so cannot avoid them.

“This is not a new problem. I first injured myself on Rad Valley Road in January 2024, when I began training with my new guide dog.

“I reported the problem on Fix My Street in March 2024. I explained that these pavements were causing me to be nervous every time I leave my house to go out with my guide dog and that I had to visit A&E on one occasion with an injured ankle.”

“I have reported the problem several times since then and was told it was on a list to be fixed, with no date given. I want the freedom and independence of being able to get out and about with my guide dog, but I am nervous because of the dangerous pavements and the failure of Shropshire Council to maintain the streets and pavements to an acceptable standard where all people, including disabled people, can move around safely without injuring themselves.”

Shropshire Council has been approached for comment, but had not responded at the time of writing.