Clifton's three Labour Councillors have expressed their dismay at the quality of work undertaken in Lucas Avenue by council contractors. Earlier this month sub-contractors carried out work installing concrete driveways over verges and footpaths to the edge of residents' properties.

Coun. David Scott, who represents Clifton, said:

"During one of our regular surgeries we were approached by residents concerned about the quality of the work undertaken by contractors laying concrete from the road, over the verge and footpath to the edge of their properties. Looking at it for myself I can see why - it is quite simply shoddy and not good enough".

"The company who did this work have badly let the Council down. It has left gaps, tripping points and it looks horrendous. Parts of it are starting to crack already. If I had asked for this work to be done I outside my home I would not have paid the contractor a penny. That is the test the Council should adopt when they spend taxpayers' money. We need to stop this waste".

Fellow ward councillor Ken King said:

"I am shocked at how poorly this work has been done. Residents weren't asked where they preferred the drive to be - it was just done for the ease of the contractor and to make sure the job was as done as cheaply as possible - and it shows".

"I am not going to let Council taxpayers' money be wasted in this way. As Shadow Executive spokesperson for Neighbourhood Services I have contacted the Director and asked that she arranges an urgent site visit by officers. If the company that did the work has not been paid they shouldn't be paid until the work is up to standard".