AN APOLOGY has been issued by authorities after works to create a dropped curb for safer road crossings in Caversham left neighbours having to walk in the road while the entire pathway was blocked off.

A photograph taken by a concerned neighbour shows the junction of Queens Road in Caversham at its junction with Mill Road, where contractors are establishing dropped kerbs.

The photo shows the pavement of the junction being completely sealed off by work barriers, without a temporary walkway in place so that pedestrians do not need to walk into the road.

The issue was raised to Reading Borough Council over safety concerns while the works are being carried out.

Apologising, a council spokesperson said: “A temporary walkway should have been provided from the outset of this work, as has been the case on the other sites we have completed.

"We apologise for the omission in this instance. A walkway was subsequently installed for the remainder of the work.”

The dropped kerb has now been established after the work was completed on Thursday, April 4.

The council is currently investing £480,000 into safety measures using contributions from developers.

The project involves establishing 35 dropped kerbs which make crossings safer for wheelchair and pushchair users.

The council is also in the process of installing 24 handrails to make climbing stairways easier for those who may struggle.