Closed
A14 roadway - blocked drains
Sent to National Highways less than a minute later. FixMyStreet ref: 8945382.
There is topsoil, grass, and debris preventing rainwater from draining off the roadway or flowing along the V-drains into the catchpits. This is occurring in the centre between the two carriageways. As a result, water is pooling in the fast lane, causing vehicles to aquaplane. This is happening either side of this marker for at least five miles in both directions along the A14. The local authority is not responsible for maintenance on this section of the A14.
Updates
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Hi,
I have just submitted this report. Please do not close it like the other reports concerning this section of the A14.
Could you please provide an update to the public? This is a very dangerous situation and has the potential to be life-threatening.
I moved to the area just over two years ago and have noticed that many regular drivers are aware of the problem and avoid driving in the affected lanes. Unfortunately, others are not aware and are therefore put at risk.
Please ensure that the relevant Highways health and safety team are notified. If no action is going to be taken, then please clearly state for the record whether Highways England accepts responsibility for this issue.
Thank you.
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I work in the industry and can say with great certainty that the drainage system on these roads forms an integral part of the original design. If it is not properly maintained, the road surface can fail and water can pool on the carriageway. This was never the intention when these roads were designed and constructed.
Ultimately, the issue comes down to a failure to acknowledge that regular maintenance is required. Cleaning these roadways is relatively straightforward and could be carried out between 1:00 am and 4:00 am, when traffic levels are lowest. Only the fast lane would need to be closed, with a small team moving along the carriageway to clear and remove debris. The drainage systems could also be jet washed to ensure they are functioning correctly.
It is also worth noting that individuals responsible for making decisions not to carry out necessary maintenance may be held personally liable under health and safety legislation where negligence can be demonstrated.
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Thank you for making your report. We have asked our inspection team to attend this location and assess the issue.
If any work is needed, they will arrange for this to happen. Should no immediate work be required we will continue to monitor this during our regular inspections.
Although we always aim to complete repairs as quickly as possible, timescales do vary as we try to minimise disruption to customers by combining activities into single closures and always ensuring the safety of our people.
Kind regards National Highways
This report is now closed to updates from the public. You can make a new report in the same location.