RESIDENTS of Abbotswood estate in Romsey have taken to Facebook to voice their anger at the state of the pavements left behind once developers had moved on.

They say Bellway Homes have delayed giving back the roads to Hampshire County Council and Test Valley Borough Council therefore, the roads have not been adopted and no one is being held responsible for maintenance.

A resident who does not wish to be named contacted the Romsey Advertiser to say they feel Bellway Homes in particular have forgotten about Abbotswood whilst they continue to work on other sites and to promote themselves for the "Excellent job they are making of Meadow View."

Cllr Nick Adams-King has responded to complaints on social media to say: “I have been working on issues associated with Abbotswood. This has included obtaining a clear picture of the outstanding work needed to complete the adoption of roads and paths on the estate and to address concerns around the management of unadopted areas.

“The first thing to say is that I am very aware there’s been a considerable period of time since the first phases of the estate were occupied and it’s therefore very frustrating that many issues remain outstanding. I’m sorry that’s the case.

There are many factors affecting the completion of the ‘public realm’ (roads, footpaths and public open space), not least the need to ensure the works agreed by the developers are undertaken to an acceptable standard to avoid unnecessary cost to the taxpayer once they are adopted.

“There is no quick fix to the situation, but I believe tenacious and regular pressure will eventually see a satisfactory and timely outcome. That’s something towards which I will continue to work.

“I am seeking a meeting this autumn with the developers to press them to complete those works still needed and to seek solutions to the management company issues which I know frustrate many.

I will keep you updated.”

A spokesperson for Bellway Homes said: “Bellway is currently working with Hampshire County Council to progress the adoption of the roads at the Abbotswood development.

"Remedial works are currently underway on the specified areas prior to adoption and Bellway has also arranged for the verges to be cut and maintained in the meantime.”