A former Masterton district councillor who prides himself on being a footpath watchdog is warning Masterton shoppers to beware of the latest hazard on Queen St.
Brent Goodwin said the Telecom manhole cover that flicks up when walked on was an example of footpath neglect.
He said Masterton District Council inspectors had
to give footpaths the priority they deserved, even while acknowledging major works, like the Homebush sewerage treatment upgrade, were at the forefront of councillors minds.
"This is core infrastructure and, at the end of the day, is simply a top priority."
Mr Goodwin said community surveys commissioned by council had invariably shown dissatisfaction with footpaths was one of the major gripes ratepayers had.
The Telecom cover is opposite a busy pedestrian crossing and shows signs of considerable wear.
When the back of one of the plates is stood on, it flicks up and could easily cause a fall, especially for elderly pedestrians.
