ANGRY residents have launched a petition calling on Lewisham Council to repair a road plagued by potholes.

More than 200 people have signed the petition asking the council to adopt Elm Lane in Catford, which is a private road and has not been maintained.

Mary Lewis, of Bargrave Cresent, broke her hip four years ago when she was walking along the lane and tripped over a pothole.

The 84-year-old said: “Lewisham Council says they are not responsible for the road but I want them to be honest and take responsibility.

“The road is in a terrible state. It’s a disgrace.”

Elm Lane is also a hot spot for fly-tipping and is littered with dog mess.

Radcliffe White of Exbury Road, who set up the petition, said: “I want the council to adopt the lane properly and bring it up to an acceptable standard.

“We are fed-up with people going there to dump rubbish and it’s a scary place to walk at night because there’s no lights.”

Elm Lane is the only road to serve Bargrave Road forcing motorists and pedestrians to struggle to and from their homes.

Brian Heathfield, of Exbury Road, said: “This has been on going for more than 30 years. It’s very dangerous.”

The potholes range from three to five meters in diameter making it impossible for people to use the lane.

Ray Cooper, of Riverview Park, said: “We have just about had enough of it. I’d like to see the council come down twice a year and put a surface on the lane to get rid of the potholes.”

A council spokesman said: “We have received the petition and letter from Mr White requesting the council to adopt Elm Lane in Catford and this request will be considered carefully."