Councillor Mal Marks, who lives in Dollys Flat, floated the idea to the council at last Wednesday’s ordinary meeting.

“For some time now, I have been working with a number of residents living in rural no-through roads with the view of council allowing the residents to carry out minor maintenance on these roads,” Cr Marks said.

“It all started with a request from a resident in Khatabundah Road, Wingham, who had carried out a survey of residents who live on that road and found that about 80 per cent of them were keen to become involved in this maintenance program.”

That resident is Bryan Betts, and he - like the rest of the residents on Khatabundah Road - is tired of the neglect the road has received.

“The road is not maintained to the standard it should be,” he said.

Cr Marks has since spoken to other residents in Elands, Cundle Flat and Mount George about the proposed program and received a promising response.

“The situation presently exists where these residents are carrying out minor maintenance works to assist council, leaving them and council exposed to litigation,” Cr Marks said.

“Budget preparation has identified a large reduction in monies being available for road works.

“Complaints are increasing and our roads have become a complete disgrace.”

Cr Marks said the minor maintenance program would allow things like filling potholes and cleaning drains and pipes to be completed by residents on designated rural roads.

If it is found to be viable, he expects the program will begin on a trial basis on one or two roads.

“This will help build a partnership between council and the community. The community will take ownership of the road.

The report will address the following issues:

* Training of supervisors

* Signage requirements

* Insurance

* Budget implications

* Occupational health and safety issues.