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Two-year wait to rebuild collapsed boundary wall in Listmas Road, Chatham

A boundary wall that collapsed more then two years ago has still not been repaired, despite assurances the work would be carried out last summer.

As highlighted in the Medway Messenger, the wall in Listmas Road, at the side of the Magpie Centre in Chatham, collapsed in January 2016, sending bricks and rubble crashing into the street.

The wall was about 120ft long and 9ft high, and a huge amount of earth and rubble toppled onto the vehicles parked beneath.

The wall fell down two years ago and has still not been repaired.
The wall fell down two years ago and has still not been repaired.

Luckily no one was injured.

Staff at the Magpie Centre, which is run by the All Saints Community Project Trust in partnership with All Saints Church, initially assessed the damage and were determined to carry on as normal.

The wall was shored up and a railing was put around the area and the pavement for safety.

It is thought the repairs have been delayed because it has not been clear who actually owned the wall and who was responsible for carrying out the work.

The wall fell down in January 2016.
The wall fell down in January 2016.

The Diocese of Rochester, responsible for All Saints Church, said in March last year, work was due to start in the summer of that year.

This week Geoff Marsh, diocesan secretary said: “Although we had anticipated work being carried out over the summer, it has unfortunately taken longer than expected to obtain a specification for the work required.

“I am pleased to say that contractors are now ready to start.

Cllr Vince Maple says he delays in repairing the wall is unacceptable.
Cllr Vince Maple says he delays in repairing the wall is unacceptable.

“All that remains outstanding is a permit from Highways giving permission for a partial closure of the road so that work can be carried out within a safe area.

“I would like to apologise for the disruption that these delays have caused to the local community and to take the opportunity to thank them for their continued patience while we get this situation rectified.”

Chatham Central ward councillor Vince Maple said: “It is simply unacceptable this situation has now gone on more than two years.

“Residents’ patience has long expired and want to see this situation sorted.

“The debate between the council, the diocese and various insurance companies lasted far too long with the community having to put up with an inexcusable delay.”

Jade Edwards, spokesman for Medway Council added: “We are in discussions with the contractor to ensure that the relevant paperwork is completed to enable the works to be carried out.”

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