Residents adorn safety barriers up for eight months in protest

The barriers have been in place since April, residents say

Residents in Burton-upon-Trent have adorned roadwork barriers outside their homes with Christmas tinsel and lights in protest at the length of time they have been there.

Neighbours in Church Road, Stretton, have decorated the barriers and plan on throwing it a mock birthday party.

The red safety measures were put in place by the broadband provider Openreach about eight months ago.

The firm has apologised and said an engineer would look into the matter.

Those living near the site told BBC Radio Derby the safety barriers had been up since April and were a hazard for people using the path.

The telecoms provider has said an engineer will be deployed to the site

Ken Washington: "There was a cover, which was broken, so they took the cover off but they haven't placed it."

Giles Saunders added: "The safety barrier things have blown into the road several times. People coming to the school with pushchairs have difficulty getting around them and people in wheelchairs have a real job. It's not on."

If the safety barriers remain in place next year, the residents plan to mark its anniversary at the site.

Mr Washington said: "We'll get cards arranged and maybe a birthday cake or something with a candle on it to demonstrate its first birthday."

The barriers appear to be shielding a hole in the pavement

Staffordshire County Council told the BBC it had launched an investigation into the barriers due to no works being scheduled.

A spokesperson for Openreach said: "We're sorry it's taken so long to get this cleared away. We've got an engineer heading out this afternoon to take a look and we'll make sure the area is left safe and clear as soon as possible."