A SCOUTHEAD businessman is involved in long running battle to improve safety at a road junction.
Pat Kelly lives in an imposing detached house at the junction of Lower Turf Lane and the A62 Huddersfield Road.
But since 1996, he has been in dispute with Oldham Council because of damage caused by vehicles attempting to make right hand turns into the narrow lane from the main road.
Part of the wall was demolished by a mystery vehicle some time ago and now there has been further damage which Mr Kelly discovered on his return from holiday.
A barrier which he had erected at the damaged wall has vanished – and more large stones have been pushed into his garden.
“I just couldn’t believe the mess,” said the former Oldham nightclub owner and entrepreneur. “It is worse than ever.
“The barrier has vanished completely and even more large stones have been pushed into the garden. The wall is in serious need of repair now.”
Mr Kelly’s plight has been taken up by local councillor Derek Heffernan who said: “We have got to resolve this issue. I will be taking immediate steps to speak to the council.”
Since Mr Kelly last reported problems, he has received a letter from the council’s traffic engineering department saying they are looking to install a new sign, discouraging large vehicles entering Lower Tuft Lane from an eastbound direction. They will also renew road markings.
“But that is not the answer,” he insisted. “Issues surround long-wheel based vehicles – not just lorries – trying to turn right into Lower Turf Lane from Huddersfield Road.
“By the time they realise they can’t make the turn, they are committed to entering the narrow lane and consequently finish up hitting the wall. A new sign would not alleviate the situation at all.
“If the council fitted a barrier to the wall – much like those on motorways – it would help protect the wall and warn drivers to take care.”
Local residents have suggested making a section of Lower Turf Lane one-way and the council have promised a full report on the issue and they will investigate who owns the wall.
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