Residents of Ashes Lane, Symonds Yat, are struggling to cope with an emergency road closure to Pritchards Lane which is making it very difficult to access their properties.

Barry Harlow and Tracy Carter have written to their MP, as well as their local Herefordshire Councillor, in a bid to resolve the situation. They have spoken to the Ross Gazette as they are concerned that no-one is taking any notice of them, and how difficult the closure is making their lives.

Mr Harlow has a serious medical condition, he is a type one Diabetic and has been for a number of years. He has sometimes needed medical assistance late at night and is worried about what would happen if an ambulance or paramedic needed to attend his property.

The couple told the Gazette:?“The whole situation is making us both unwell and no decision makers appear to be taking our position seriously.”

Mr Harlow explained that before they bought the house they were advised by their solicitor that Ashes Lane is a Byway which has to be maintained. The couple are amazed that local residents have been using this road safely for many years, but it has suddenly been decided that it is unsafe to use.

Mr Harlow believes that the closure is actually making it more dangerous for him as he has to reverse out ‘blind’ from his steep drive onto Ashes Lane, as there is no room for him to turn his vehicle. He told the Ross Gazette:?“If it has been closed for safety reasons why is no-one taking into account our safety?”

To read the full report, pick up this week’s copy of the Ross Gazette.