The Battle of Pulling Road: Devon Residents Clash with Verto Homes Over Pothole Pandemonium

In picturesque Exeter, Devon, the tranquil ambience of Pulling Road has been disrupted. Locals argue that new build homes have not only changed the face of their beloved neighbourhood but have also turned their street into a potential hazard zone.

Residents of Pulling Road, Exeter, express their outrage as construction related to newbuild homes results in dangerous potholes, comparing the situation to navigating through a "warzone". Their grievances are intensified by the council's perceived reluctance to intervene.

Verto Homes, the developer behind the chaos, began the construction of 40 properties, named Nexa Fields, over a year ago. Ever since, the once-smooth road has deteriorated, leading to widespread distress among residents.

Maggie Skeet, an 86-year-old local, provides a poignant testimony. Highlighting the frequent movement of large vehicles, she reveals her deep-seated fears of getting injured. For Maggie, who relies on a walking stick, the challenging journey to the bus stop feels like an accident waiting to happen.

While Verto Homes claims Pulling Road was in a dilapidated state even before the construction, they also note that they are restricted by the council's directives. They've been advised to hold off on any repairs until the completion of the entire development.

Verto Homes also emphasised their dedication to the community, pointing out their financial contributions towards local infrastructure, education, and highways, stemming from the Nexa Fields project. They have promised to address the residents' concerns promptly.

In response, a spokesperson from Devon County Council acknowledged the damage to Pulling Road, attributing it to the heavy vehicles associated with the nearby development. They added that it wouldn't be prudent to invest significant public funds into road repairs that might soon get damaged again due to ongoing construction. The council, however, has assured that they will stay vigilant about the road's condition and attend to safety defects as required.

The saga of Pulling Road isn't an isolated incident. Across the UK, various communities echo similar grievances against newbuild developments. In Mansfield, Nottingham, there are fears of increased traffic reminiscent of "Piccadilly Circus" due to newbuilds. Homeowners in Didcot, Oxfordshire, bemoan the unfinished state of their housing estate, with persistent noise and disruption.

In light of all this, questions arise. How can development and community coexist harmoniously? And who bears the responsibility of ensuring that existing residents aren't compromised for the sake of new ones?

Only time will tell if a middle ground can be found in these developmental debates.