A KNUTSFORD driver is seeking compensation from Cheshire East Council following a collision on a controversial bend on Longridge.

Joseph Caruana Smith’s vehicle collided with a van while trying to negotiate parked cars on the Longridge Road, near the industrial estate, on August 13.

The 57-year-old is claiming Cheshire East Council responsible for the ‘ignoring’ the notorious crash spot and is holding them liable for the £550 costs incurred by the accident.

Joseph, from St John’s Vale in Longridge, said: “I sincerely feel that the liability of this accident and all the others is entirely on Cheshire East Council for not taking action and they should pay for all the damages.”

In recent years, a number of accidents have occurred on the bend, with the cause of many attributed to the high number of cars parked there by people who work on the nearby industrial estate.

For some time, campaigners on the estate have been asking Cheshire East Council for traffic calming measures to be installed on the bend to help alleviate the problem.

Joseph added: “This issue has been brought up to the council before and no-one from Cheshire East has taken action.

“This is all a liability of Cheshire East for ignoring the problem. That area should be a no parking zone and anyone who parks there should be charged no less than £100.”

Cheshire East Council has informed Joseph that his claim has been passed to the insurance team and that The Highways and Insurance Team would be in contact in due course.

They also confirmed that the issue regarding parking on the bend has been raised and a proposal has been forward to introduce yellow lines on both side of the road to keep the area clear.

Joseph said: “It’s good what they are saying but I don’t believe them. “If they come through on it that’s great.”

Clr David Topping, cabinet member in charge of the environment, said: “The council takes all road safety matters very seriously and will listen to members of the public if they believe particular roads are unsafe.

“However, there is a clear need for motorists to take care on the roads.

“The council alone cannot be held responsible for road traffic collisions.

“That said, we will look into the matter and act if it is deemed appropriate.”