A FLOODED underpass in Southampton has been described as “beyond a joke” after being out of use for months.

The Millbrook underpass which allows pedestrians to walk safely under A33 Redbridge Road has been water logged for almost five months – stopping walkers and cyclists from using it.

Residents and councillors are now calling on the council to sort the issue.

Councillor Steven Galton said: “It is beyond a joke now.

“Our Labour council needs to start delivering for us, the taxpayers.

“At a time when we are trying to get more people out of their cars and walking or cycling more, how can such a vital link for residents be left flooded for months?

“I have spoken with Tanners Brook Primary School and, like me, they are very concerned by the number of primary-aged children who are choosing to run across the four lanes of Tebourba Way as they can’t use this subway.”

 

The underpass in Pendle Close was first reported flooded at the beginning of August last year when it was closed off with gates and a sign.

The water was cleared in late September but soon re-flooded.

The underpass was cleared a second time on January 15 but reportedly became waterlogged again just hours after.

The walkway is used by primary school-aged children, who use it as one of the only safe ways to travel to Tanners Brook Primary School from the Millbrook area.

Lorraine Mould, a parent who uses the underpass to travel to the primary school, has described the situation as “an accident waiting to happen”.

She said: “The subway has been flooding with ground water on and off for years but this year has been the worst that we have seen.

“It flooded before Christmas and remains the same now.

“Some primary school-aged children walk to school on their own and are choosing to risk their lives crossing the dual carriageway of Tebourba Way.

“The school and council are trying to encourage parents to walk to school but how can we if they don’t maintain safe routes leading to the school?”

Southampton City Council have been contacted for a comment.