Pavement falls cost council millions

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Compensation bill amongst highest in London.

Hounslow Council has paid out over £3 million to compensate people who injured themselves tripping or falling on pavements in the past five years.

Figures obtained by the Evening Standard using the Freedom of Information Act showed that Hounslow has paid £3,139,300 to 924 claimants. The amount was the third highest of all London boroughs, with only Lambeth and Brent paying out more. Ealing paid £583,233 to 669 claimants whilst 618 sued Richmond, being paid £626,430.

Claims against the Borough include complaints about uneven kerbs, wet leaves, poor street lighting and slippery manhole covers. A BrentfordTW8.com Forum contributor recorded how a cracked pavement had led to a falll for her Mother-In-Law, resulting in a stay in hospital - you can read the thread here.

To report a cracked or damaged highway or footpath you can email Hounslow Council's Highways Maintance Team by clicking here.

Nov 28 2005