Taverham councillor criticises county council road closures

Conservative county councillor for Taverham and Thorpe Marriott, Stuart Clancy, has slammed the highways department of the Tory-controlled Norfolk County Council (NCC).

It comes shortly after concerns were raised around a possible long-term closure in Ringland due to a sinkhole which appeared last weekend.

The roadworks and closures happening around Taverham currently (Image: Causeway Network)

Mr Clancy says people having to navigate the closures "deserve better" while the council say it works hard to keep delays to a minimum.

Mr Clancy said: "Norfolk's commitment to unnecessary road chaos continues at pace.

"While West End in Costessey is now open the main, and only, access route to it now has four-way traffic signals set up along the Taverham Road and Sandy Lane crossroads.

"There's been no work being carried out all day, no signs indicating who the lights have been set up by, or for what purpose, while being no plant machinery or equipment on site - there's absolutely no activity whatsoever.

Conservative councillor for Thorpe Marriott and Taverham, Stuart Clancy, said the current closures are creating frustration and irritation for people (Image: Newsquest)

"There are long, unnecessary tailbacks along the very narrow Costessey Lane creating frustration, irritation and yet again, huge reputational damage to NCC.

"It hurts our ability to manage the highway network in the interests of residents, businesses and other stakeholders.

"What on earth is going on? Someone needs to take responsibility, be accountable and take control of the ongoing issues.

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"It's just not being managed effectively or professionally.

A recent road closure in Ringland was also set up last weekend (Image: Newsquest)

The pothole which has closed Ringland bridge (Image: Denise Bradley/Newsquest)

"This is a major issue across the whole of Norfolk, and needs addressing - Norfolk road users expect and deserve better."

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A county council spokeswoman said: "We work hard to ensure planned roadworks are arranged to keep any delays to a minimum.

"We understand that travel disruption can be a source of frustration, especially when unexpected problems put additional pressure on the road network.

"Roadworks are crucial in maintaining a safe road network, while ensuring homes and businesses have access to essential utilities."

One of the roads affected is in Costessey Lane (Image: Google Maps)