Alexandria: Pensioner's fury at state of West Dunbartonshire street

Richard Elder hit out at the state of Beechwood Drive in Alexandria, saying he hadn’t been on roads as bad since driving in Kenya many years ago, and spoke of his anger that his concerns had been met with silence from West Dunbartonshire Council.

Mr Elder, 81, told the Reporter he was facing a second car repair bill for a spring in 14 months and blamed the issue on the state of the road.

He said: “The condition of the road is absolutely terrible. There are huge ruts and potholes which are dangerous for vehicles – but they could be lethal for cyclists, if they don’t see them, and the pavement isn’t much better.

“There had been construction work, building homes on the site of the former Highdykes Primary School, and that meant lots of heavy vehicles going up and down the road, which took its toll. Many of us assumed it would be repaired after the work was finished – but there has been nothing, and the road is getting worse and worse.”

Mr Elder is calling for urgent action (Image: Newsquest)

Mr Elder told how he was formerly secretary of the local residents’ association and several years ago, when there was a previous, issue, a council official joined him for a walkabout, during which problem areas were identified and subsequently fixed.

In April 2022, he wrote to West Dunbartonshire Council to highlight the issue but said he hasn’t received a response. Recent calls have also been left unanswered.

'Unacceptable'

But he deemed the lack of action – or response – from the council on this occasion “unacceptable” and added: “I’ve tried getting through but everything wants you to leave a message, then no one calls back.

“Beforehand, when someone came out, the issues were rectified immediately but now there is nothing at all and the situation is getting worse. It’s shocking and beyond a joke.”

A spokesperson for West Dunbartonshire Council said: “This location is part of planned resurfacing work due to be undertaken. In the meantime, the roads team will inspect the area to assess if any defects are present and ensure these are made safe until full resurfacing is completed.”