THE partner of a man whose ambulance was delayed for vital minutes following confusion over security barriers, says “someone could die” if it happens again.

Pharmacist dispenser Louisa O’Doherty, 25, who lives in Hyde Grove on Dartford’s Bridge development, had to redirect the ambulance round the back of the site when it could not get through the entrance’s locked barriers.

Her partner, 25-year-old Bradley Ambridge, was suffering with severe heart and breathing difficulties.

She said: “The delay could have been very dangerous.

“I don’t think the barriers should even be there at all, someone could die.

“Someone needs to take responsibility.

“No-one knows what the hell’s going on and we just go round in circles.”

Sales assistant Mr Ambridge said he was unable to breathe.

He said: “I was in absolute agony.”

The couple have lived on the development since June last year.

A spokesman for South East Coast Ambulance Service confirmed there was a short delay at the entrance and said it is working with the development to overcome access issues.

She said: “The service has also been informed by the Bridge Estate Management Company it will be notifying residents, should they require emergency services, they should contact security staff who will ensure the barrier is lifted prior to their arrival.”

Park manager Jane Allen says the management company is aware of the need for occasional emergency access to the new homes.

She said: “We are working with the ambulance service to put in place a system which will ensure immediate access for vehicles responding to emergency calls.”