Transport NI has agreed to cut back overgrown bushes on one of the main roads leading to Creggan estate in Derry despite them not being on their land, a local councillor has said.
Sinn Fein’s Colly Kelly said he had been contacted by a number of people about the state of overgrown trees and bushes (pictured) on Eastway Road, known locally as the New Road
He said: “It is very overgrown and is a health and safety hazard for anyone walking either up or down this footpath.
“I have been speaking to Transport NI regarding this and even though this is not their land which is overgrown they have agreed that they will cut this due to the health risk.
“This will temporarily solve the problem.
“I have been in contact with the Council, Housing Executive and Transport NI as this seems to be unvested land and in previous years I have met with Housing Executive and the city solicitor regarding who has ownership and this is still to be resolved.
“A piece of this land next to the overgrown area is owned and well maintained by the Housing Executive.
Cllr Kelly said the overgrown bushes and trees had created a “number of problems.”
He added: “It’s a fire hazard because of the overgrowth.
“In the summer months it always seems to be set on fire and the residents directly behind are constantly dealing with the problems of rats.”
Cllr Kelly concluded: “I have requested a multi-agency meeting to see if we can collectively come up with long terms solutions.”
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