'My council tax keeps going up - but I can't walk safely on my road'
17.05.2024 - 17:39
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Each time Abu-Bakr Ishtiaqleaves his south Manchester home, he fears for his safety. The potholes and craters in his road might be a pain for most others - but for him they are a hazard that he is worried could render him housebound.
The 34-year-old is registered blind, and says he has been speaking to Manchester City Council since 2021 about his concerns over the condition of Montcliffe Crescent in Whalley Range. He claims that despite him pointing out the risks to him as a visually impaired person, the council told him the road was 'not hazardous' enough for them to repair.
Abu-Bakr said the potholes make it 'impossible' for him to walk at times, and added he is also worried for the safety of others on his road. When contacted by the M.E.N for comment, Manchester City Council said Abu-Bakr's road is on this year's road resurfacing programme.
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"For me as a visually impaired person, it is challenging," he said. "I have a lot of places I need to go in the days - it can feel impossible to get there. For example, the other day I wanted to walk to my sister's house. I went to cross the road and nearly tripped over and twisted my ankle.
"There's potholes, there's cracks, there's bumps and everything. Council tax has gone up, but they won't fix the road."
He said he has to stick to walking on the curb in order to avoid unexpected bumps and cracks, which becomes even more difficult in the rain or at night.
Abu-Bakr even added the situation even left him reluctant to vote in the recent local elections., and he isn't sure he will vote in the upcoming general election.
"Why should I vote for you when you won't fix the road?,"