Dogs and children ‘covered in tar’ by unexpected roadworks

Herefordshire residents say dogs and children were ‘covered in tar’ after walking down a recently resurfaced road they had no prior warning about.

Highways workers put surface dressing along the Rhea, a half-a-mile lane in Sutton St Nicholas, on Sunday.

But local residents were caught out by the works – some had their pets stained by the newly laid asphalt while children who cycle the lane were also affected.

Les Wilkinson, who lives nearby, said he had no idea of the planned works.

He took his dog for an early walk before leaving Sutton – on returning, he found the road had been resurfaced.

“When I took the dog out, there were skid warning signs along the road but not the typical yellow signs you see announcing a road closure or planned works like they have near Bodenham,” he said.

He said the road was perfectly fine and had been resurfaced several years ago.

“I’d like to find out how much the council has spent on resurfacing the lane and employing workers to do it on a Sunday morning,” he said.

Mr Wilkinson said workers had travelled from Plymouth to do the job.

“The work started at 7am and finished by 10.30am.

“The cost to the council must be in the region of £30,000 to £40,000, at least.”

He said the lane was dangerous for kids to cycle along following the works.

“It’s too much of a skid risk,” he said.

Mr Wilkinson also said workers had to avoid a car which was parked along the lane.

“It was a white car so it’s lucky they didn’t splash it with tar but were it was and has just been left as it was.”

A Herefordshire Council spokesperson said residents on roads being worked on are sent an information leaflet in advance.

“Surface dressing is a treatment that prolongs the life of roads by restoring surface texture to help prevent potholes and improve safety.

“Additional information is available on the council’s website, on signs at the location of works and on our social media.

“Anyone with questions or concerns can call our customer service team on 01432 261800.”