Edinburgh City Council criticised by residents for not enforcing repairs after damage caused by contractors

Clermiston residents have been left furious after green banks and kerb sides were left severely damaged by Edinburgh City Council contractors.

Alleged damage by council contractors in the Clermiston area

They say that no one is willing to take responsibility for the damage and that the council does not do enough to enforce repairs.

One couple who have been residents for over 50 years, said: “We have noticed a rapid decline in relation to continual damage of grass verges, paving kerbs, drains and features throughout the area. Particularly in the last 16 months or so with the introduction of services like CityFibre and council associated subcontractors. The problems have increased and no action is being taken by the council to rectify the problem and hold those responsible to account.”

Images shared with the Evening News show severe damage being inflicted across various public green space verges.

Council contractors parking on green banks in Clerwood

The impacted areas appear to be on the artery road adjacent to Drumbrae Drive as well as along Clermiston Road where various works have been carried out.

The Evening News had previously reported on the damage caused by CityFibre works in the North Edinburgh community but the problem does not appear to have abated.

Another local resident, said: “The introduction of CityFibre to our area has been detrimental in many ways. Last summer I wrote on several occasions to the council leader to complain and inform and still the practice of parking on grass verges continues unabated.”

Elaine Doherty, CityFibre’s city manager for Edinburgh, said: “At all times, we aim to carry out reinstatement works to as high a standard as possible while minimising disruption. If those standards are not met, we will undertake remedial work and did so in the Clermiston and Clerwood areas last year. We’ll continue to engage with the public on any further steps that need to be taken and thank them for their patience.”

Alleged damage from council contractors in Clermiston area

A council spokesperson said: “All public utilities companies are required to complete pavement and verge reinstatements to a satisfactory standard. We will continue to work with contractors to ensure this is the case, in addition to our own work to improve road surfaces, based on priority.”

Residents have hit back by saying that they feel that the response from the council is inadequate.

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