‘Tyre-slashing’ kerb warning issued by motorists

Mike Wheadon, of Chapman Court, has forked out almost £300 on new car tyres since June when the section of kerb in Coates Avenue struck for the first time.

In June, Mr Wheadon’s wife was taking their child to school when she pulled into the side of the road to give way to an oncoming vehicle at the first traffic calming measure after turning into Coates Avenue from Skipton Road.

On accelerating away, the kerb sliced both front and rear nearside tyres leaving them with a £200 bill.

Last week, lighting struck twice and the rubber killing section of kerb was causing “tyre carnage” again according to Mr Wheadon, when a tyre on his daughter’s car was shredded in similar circumstances.

Mr Wheadon said: “My wife bumped the kerb in her car in June and managed to literally slash two tyres.

“We wrote the council with pictures and were sent an over complicated claim form which we duly completed - we are yet to hear from them.

“They even came back to us requested more information such as how many miles the tyres had done. The cost of a new one is still the cost of a new one.

“Would you believe, the kerb stone is still there eating tyres, and yes, my eldest daughter slashed one last week.

“In total, this broken kerb on Coates Avenue has cost just one Barnoldswick resident £272. I am certain there must be more... Or will be more if nothing is done.”

Responding, Clare Farrer, Lancashire County Council highways manager, said: “We inspected this kerb following the initial report but at that time the level of damage to the kerb was not considered to need immediate repair.

“However as the issue has been raised again we will revisit the site and consider whether it needs to be repaired.

“We have received a claim for damages and will respond in due course.”