Ribble Valley MP Nigel Evans has today written to the Communities and Local Government Secretary, Greg Clark, to voice his proposals for District Authorities to be given more powers over potholes and rural bus services.
In his letter Mr Evans said;
“The Ribble Valley is one of the most sparsely populated areas of the country, with people having to travel large distances by road to go to work take their children to school, run businesses, visit the nearest town or even go to the local shop. Cars in the Ribble Valley are by no means a luxury, and are a vital component of everyday life. Road surfaces and maintenance are therefore vital issues for the area.”
He continued,
‘You would therefore expect that Lancashire County Council, the local authority above Ribble Valley Borough Council, would take a great interest in this issue. Sadly this has not been the case, and I have grave concerns that the Ribble Valley is not receiving its fair share of funding from Lancashire County Council.’
Speaking from the Ribble Valley this morning, Mr Evans said;
“I have asked Greg Clark to consider giving Ribble Valley Council power and funding to fix the terrible state of the roads in the Ribble Valley, given the poor service provided by Lancashire County Council.
I have contacted Lancashire County Council on a number of occasions, and my concerns have received little interest.
Waiting for a serious injury to a cyclist, motorcyclist or driver before investing in road improvements is a ridiculous strategy, and I hope the Minister will consider my proposals seriously.”