Kirklees Council has answered complaints over a patchwork of ‘temporary repairs’ to New Street after works by utility company Virgin Media.

Trenches have been dug on long stretches of the main Huddersfield town centre shopping street but the temporary tarmac infill left local people warning of the poor state of the repairs.

Some the tarmac hasn’t been compacted and some of the block paving is undulating and uneven and could be a trip hazard.

Works on the utilities are being carried out ahead of a major revamp to turn New Street into a ‘Green Street’ with new paving, seating and 40ft tall planters.

Huddersfield Civic Society chairman David Wyles said: “This is a busy street and people of all ages can not only see a patchwork of very badly repaired areas but could potentially trip over the poorly compacted surfaces. The contractors should be called back as soon as possible to correct the mess.”

Clr Graham Turner, Cabinet member for growth and regeneration at Kirklees Council, responded to the complaints.

In a statement he said: “Kirklees Council is working closely with Virgin Media who are responsible for the repair works currently being undertaken to the footway on New Street in Huddersfield town centre.

“We apologise for the inconvenience caused to business owners and shoppers whilst Virgin Media carries out these essential works.

“Council officers will continue to work with Virgin Media to ensure disruption is kept to a minimum and that works are completed as soon as possible.

“Kirklees Council have paused their works on New Street for the Christmas period and the main scheme will recommence on January 3 2023.”

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