Residents have expressed their frustration at the state of an overgrown roundabout amid claims that drivers can’t see other traffic while trying to use it.

The stretch of Stokesley Road, in Northallerton, has become a problem area for drivers, according to those who live near it. 

Residents claim that the overgrown grass means that pulling onto the roundabout becomes a “lottery” and “incredibly dangerous”.

David Toon, who lives close to the roundabout on Stokesley Road, urged developers Taylor Wimpey and North Yorkshire Council to improve the area. 

Darlington and Stockton Times: The overgrown grass on the roundaboutThe overgrown grass on the roundabout (Image: DAVID TOON)

Mr Toon, who has previously complained about this issue, has highlighted a broken safety barrier next to the roundabout, which was damaged around two months ago by a car that smashed into it at 4am in the morning. 

He said: “This roundabout has been this way for a while – we have consistently complained and are no further onwards.

“We moved here from near Yarm, thinking that this area would be kept well, but we are extremely disappointed. 

“It lets the whole of Northallerton down because when people come to the town and see that – they remember things like that.

“The place should be kept looking nice. We have a lovely and beautiful garden – but then have to look out onto that roundabout, it’s a complete eyesore.”

Darlington and Stockton Times: The roundabout in NorthallertonThe roundabout in Northallerton (Image: DAVID TOON)

Several drivers also commented on the state of the overgrown grass in June last year. 

On that occasion, the developers tidied up the roundabout.

In response, North Yorkshire Council’s highways area manager, Jayne Charlton said: “The maintenance of the roundabout on Stokesley Road currently lies with the developers. However, we will investigate and take action to ensure the grass is cut.

Darlington and Stockton Times: The damaged safety barrier on the roundaboutThe damaged safety barrier on the roundabout (Image: DAVID TOON)

“We are also working on arrangements for future maintenance of the central island of the roundabout. We always listen to residents’ concerns around overgrown grass, which is impacting visibility, and any damage. Please be assured that we are investigating the issue.”

Darlington and Stockton Times: Part of the A19 surfacePart of the A19 surface (Image: DAVID TOON)

A Taylor Wimpey spokesperson added: “We acknowledge the concerns raised by motorists regarding the height of the grass on the roundabout on Stokesley Road. We take road safety very seriously and have arranged for the grass to be cut immediately. 

“We apologise that the damaged railing is yet to be repaired. This will be fixed as part of our broader remedial works currently being planned before our maintenance period for the road begins.”