A SUPERMARKET has agreed to clean up its act after safety concerns were raised by a resident who feared that rats would come up through a damaged drain on a verge it owns.

Waitrose in Romsey owns a grass verge behind its back wall, which creates an alleyway to the rear of properties in Station Road.

The resident, who did not want to be named, called for Waitrose to tackle the state of the verge after she had concerns about an unsafe drain cover and the condition of the verge. She feared it was encouraging fly-tipping, dog mess and could see rats come into the town.

She said: “I am concerned and frustrated at the lack of responsibility taken by the supermarket. I’ve requested they cut the grass to a reasonable length, reducing the likelihood of fly-tipping and dog mess.

“If anyone can explain to me why a large corporation such as this can pay for gardeners to tidy their car park yet not take responsibility for the land they clearly see as of secondary importance, I’d be most grateful.

“In addition, there is a very precarious drain cover on this grass verge which is undoubtedly going to be the site of an accident now that it is hidden in the grass. The cover is broken and there are reports of vermin entering and exiting the drainage.”

Her calls were backed by councillors, who said they were disappointed by the lack of action.

Deputy leader of Test Valley Borough Council Cllr Nick Adams-King said: “I recognise how challenging keeping verges tidy can be, however this is a well-used footpath and it’s disappointing that Waitrose has not responded to the concerns.”

Cllr Sandra Gidley, ward councillor for Romsey Abbey and former MP, said: “I’m disappointed that Waitrose hasn’t responded to the requests. Their customer service is usually excellent and I would hope that this responsiveness would carry over into actions that have impact on the neighbours. Council officers have asked Waitrose to investigate the drain, which is on their land, and it is highly regrettable that there has been no action on this to date.”

Waitrose has now said it would be taking action.

A spokesman confirmed said: “We’re really sorry to hear this. We expect the verge to be cleared by the end of next week, and we’re also working to fix the drain cover as quickly as possible.”

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