COUNCILLORS on Burley Parish Council have blasted Hampshire County Council for leaving repairs to roads and footpaths half done because of delays in buying special soil.

The county council has resurfaced Forest Road and the footpath in Pound Lane but the verges have not been levelled off because the Forestry Commission requires the use of specific soil.

Members of the parish council claim the areas have been left in a dangerous state for pedestrians and motorists.

At Burley Parish Council meeting councillor Ian Thew urged the council to write a letter addressing health and safety matters.

He claimed that there is a “nasty drop” at the edge of the road.

Deputy surveyor for the Forestry Commission Mike Seddon said: “Only local material that is agreed by Natural England, including gravel and topsoil can be used on our land and that applies to anybody working in the area. The reason for this is that foreign material could have an adverse effect on wildlife. The county council are familiar with this policy, which has existed for decades.”

Hampshire County Councils cabinet member for environment Mel Kendall said: “In these particular locations we are required by Natural England to use only the soil that is indigenous to raise the levels.

“In Pound Lane we have been able to use the soil that was previously excavated and we will be adding to this in the next couple of weeks to complete what needs to be done there.”

He explained that the gravel being used in Forest Road was a temporary measure until the correct soil was obtained.