Pothole concerns for paramedics

A PARAMEDIC team leader has warned that his crew have had to fork out hundreds of pounds in repairs due to their cars being damaged heading into their work. The condition of the road within Maxwelltown Industrial Estate leading to the Scottish Ambulance Service station has plummeted with several large potholes in situ. And a post on social media highlighting just how bad the issue is has sparked major worries. Paramedic Alan Campbell says thankfully no ambulances have been damaged yet, but he is concerned at the increase in reports from staff about their own motors. He said: “It’s nearly double figures of damaged staff cars, varying from burst tyres, cracked wheels and damaged suspension. “We are lucky, so far no ambulances have been damaged but crews have suffered with jarred backs from hitting the holes. “The service are doing all they can to help but are reluctant to pay for all repairs. “We know the road is not council owned and we’re not 100 per cent sure who is responsible for the repairs but it must be said the state of the road is slowing us down. “Student paramedics have had bills of over £500 and they don’t get a wage. Further damage could result in paramedics having difficulty being able to turn up for duty.” A council spokesperson confirmed the local authority isn’t responsible for the maintenance of the full length of the route. They say Scottish Ministers remain the responsibility of the highlighted area. They added: “Dumfries and Galloway Council’s roads service is aware of recent public concerns raised about the condition of a section of road within Maxwelltown Industrial Estate leading to the Scottish Ambulance Service station. “The council maintains only the first 158 metres of the road from its junction with the A75. “The remaining section, including the stretch leading to the Scottish Ambulance Station, is owned by and remains the responsibility of the Scottish Ministers, and therefore lies outwith the council’s maintenance responsibilities.”