‘Inconsiderate, lazy’ drivers turning green spaces into ‘ugly mud baths’

Kevin Gannon was walking along The Harebreaks when he noticed the churned up grass verges between the pavement and the road.

In blatant contravention of nearby signs warning that those parking thoughtlessly risked having their car towed, Mr Gannon saw several vehicles sat on the grassy areas despite ample spaces available at the side of the road.

“What should be pleasant green spaces have been turned into ugly mud baths by inconsiderate drivers; they look awful,” he said.

While Mr Gannon was photographing the affected area, he was approached by a resident who said his son had slipped on the muddy pavement, narrowly avoiding a potentially painful fall.

“Not only does the street look awful, but this is also actually dangerous. It’s a quagmire,” he added.

“What is Watford Community Housing Trust doing about this? Or the council?”

The housing trust said it was responsible for some verges while the council was responsible for others, adding that parking was discouraged but not strictly prohibited.

Jane Pursey, estates team leader at Watford Community Housing Trust, said: “We are aware of the problems caused by cars parking on grass verges on The Harebreaks and we are currently making arrangements for barriers to be placed on frequently used areas to prevent inconsiderate parking.

“We are committed to ensuring that our communities are safe and attractive environments, and we are confident that these measures will help to make The Harebreaks more pleasant for residents.”