Large voids that were exposed when work was carried out by Southern Gas on Lancaster Street have remained unrepaired, despite many months passing and concerns raised by local residents. Today the Lewes MP, Norman Baker, has called on both the Lewes District and East Sussex County councils to "fill in the void".
During the works on the street carried out four months ago, cellars were revealed which were seemingly remnants of the cellars of 18th/19th century houses which were subsequently demolished and replaced with the current housing. As a highway matter, the County Council initially consulted with local residents to insert lightweight fill into the voids, but on learning that the cellars were the property of Lewes District Council progress seems to have halted, with negotiations for responsibility failing to progress.
Particular concerns have been raised with the MP about vandalism to the barriers around the voids, and litter and debris accumulating at the site. One resident even witnessed an individual walking across the netting covering the void, putting themselves at serious risk of danger.
Commenting, Norman said: "It is quite frankly unacceptable that a hazard like this has remained present for so long. Not only is it unsightly, but it is also dangerous; walking across netting over the voids is certainly a clear example of this. While I appreciate that both councils wish to be sure who is responsible for what area of finance, the simple fact is this needs to be addressed and I have made it clear in letters to both the Director of Planning at Lewes District, and the Director of Transport and Environment at the County Council that urgent progress needs to be made. Four months for a resolution is simply too long."
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Contact Norman at:
Norman Baker,
23 East Street,
Lewes,
East Sussex,
BN7 2LJ.
Tel: (01273) 480281.
Fax: (01273) 480287.
Email: info
