Volunteers to maintain highways under pilot scheme

A new pilot scheme in Shropshire will see volunteers given powers to carry out low-risk maintenance jobs like litter picking, sign cleaning and small pothole repairs.

Shropshire Council said it was working with Church Preen, Hughley & Kenley Parish Council to train residents as road wardens, inspired by a similar scheme in Devon.

Volunteers will be co-ordinated by the parish council, with small scale highway and street scene works carried out at agreed locations across the parish.

It hopes to tackle minor issues more quickly and improve the appearance of the local area.

Other tasks they will be permitted to undertake include leaf clearance and minor vegetation trimming.

Small pothole repairs will be allowed in limited, approved circumstances, Shropshire Council said, on footways and quiet roads using cold lay materials.

Jobs involving live carriageways, working at a height or using power tools will not be allowed, unless specific permission is given.

One of the pilot's first tasks is to fix ditches and drains to clear road surfaces of water.

Shropshire Council said it would provide oversight, technical guidance and other practical backup, like sending in teams to clear drains that the wardens could not fix.

The scheme's success will be measured through things like response times, number of issues resolved, resident feedback and community participation, the authority said.

Larger or safety critical highways issues will still be reported to the council as normal.

"This pilot scheme offers a number of benefits, including a faster response to small issues, more cost-effective maintenance that will reduce the pressure on Shropshire Council resources, and cleaner, safer and more attractive roads and verges," said David Vasmer, cabinet member for highways and environment.

"It will also strengthen the relationship between Shropshire Council and the parish council, ensuring shared responsibility for public spaces."

Richard Roycroft, chair of Church Preen, Hughley & Kenley Parish Council, said there were concerns about the state of roads locally, with residents complaining about the road surface and potholes, as well as visitors often getting tyre and wheel damage.

Nearly 40 residents turned out to a volunteer meeting, and had now had training.

"We're keen to do our bit here to get the water off the roads – then Shropshire Council can come and fix the lanes," he said.

"I've been checking ditches and drains and clearing those is top priority."

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