Bewildered Thornton Heath residents can't understand why new paving slabs were laid and then dug up exposing a gaping hole near a Brigstock Road bus stop.

The offending hole situated near a bus stop at the junction of Brigstock Road and Bensham Manor Road has proved to be a sore subject among elderly people trying to collect their pensions from the post office next to it.

Bensham Manor Neighbourhood watch member, Theresa McWilliams said: "The hole is a nuisance. Why did they mess with the pavement in the first place and lay new tiles if they were just going to dig it all up and leave an eyesore?

"This 2ft square hole has been there for some weeks and the council should do something about it."

Council spokesman, divisional director of traffic, parking and civil engineering, Chris Martin said: "We will investigate this matter. We will be looking into who left the hole, whether it be a public utility or the council, and will look at their reasons for doing so.

"I would hope that any hole has been protected by appropriate barriers and signs in accordance with health and safety legislation."

November 14, 2001 13:00