GREG Pope MP has called on a cable television company to cut down roadwork disruption after elderly residents complained they were afraid to leave their homes.

The Hyndburn MP claims stones and rubble left on pavements by Nynex workmen laying cable caused some Oswaldtwistle residents to fear for their safety.

He said: "I have been told elderly residents are afraid to go out because of rubble and stones left on the pavements which are apparently like an obstacle course. I am very concerned someone will be hurt."

Other complaints include noise from the workmen early in the morning and late at night, as well as roads being blocked by roadworks. Mr Pope said: "One lady told me that Cherry Crescent had been dug up three or four times and workers had gone on from from 7.30am to 8.30pm and workers blocked Lime Avenue so buses had to turn back leaving elderly residents stranded."

The MP said he recognised Nynex was providing a valuable service for the community, but cables should be laid with minimum disruption to residents.

He added: "I have asked Nynex to ensure their work causes as little disruption as possible to my constituents and take every care to make good the roads and footpaths."

Nynex spokeswoman Jackie Patterson said: "We have no records of any of the incidents mentioned.

"However, we are conscious that our contractor's activities will cause some inconvenience and we do strive to ensure this is kept to a minimum.

"To support our commitment to the community we have an established freephone number and would encourage residents with any inquiries or concerns to contact us on 0800 581204." She said Nynex will investigate concerns raised by Mr Pope.

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