New figures reveal that investment, in keeping York’s footpaths in a safe condition, has fallen by 41% over he last 5 years
Expenditure on repairs peaked at £1.8 million in 2009 when the Council was under Liberal Democrat Leadership.
This year only £1 million will be spent. The detailed figures – revealed in response to a Freedom of Information request – are:
• 2009/10 – £1,794k
• 2010/11 – £1,784k
• 2011/12 – £1,667k
• 2012/13 – £1,160k
• 2013/14 – £1,050k
The Council received 48 claims for compensation last year from people who had fallen on badly maintained footpaths. £6,750 was paid out in compensation
The number of complaints about pavements doubled in 2012/13 to 554 from a level of 258 two years earlier.
The Council admits that 5% of its footpaths require resurfacing.
Each year the Council resurfaces less than 1% of the total mileage of footpaths in the City.
The most complained about footpaths are Front Street in Acomb and Coney Street.
NB. The Council are currently spending £500,000 relaying flags in Kings Square. despite the area being in a generally good condition