Hebden Bridge roadworks: Dying man's 'extreme distress' after carers delayed because of Calderdale roadworks despite promises key workers would be allowed through

The palliative care team for the terminally ill man had to take the long route round to get to his Blackshaw Head home even though the man’s family had been told the carers would be allowed through roadworks currently closing the main road through Hebden Bridge most nights.

Work started on Market Street on Monday (July 17) that means the road is shut between 9pm and 6am, Monday to Friday. It is expected to be completed by Friday, July 28.

Exceptions have been agreed for “care workers with badges and emergency vehicles”, said ward councillor for the area Josh Fenton-Glynn.

But a woman, who does not wished to be named, said her dad’s carers were refused access last night (Tuesday) and the previous night.

He sadly died this morning.

"There have been posts on social media saying that the road would remain open for key worker and emergency access during the night,” she said.

"Despite this, for the last two nights my dad's palliative care team have been unable to get to him as quickly as they could as they have had to go through Littleborough.”

She said her dad had been in distress and in need of his carers.

"Last night they came from Sowerby Bridge on the independent assurance they would be able to get through Hebden and were told that they could not pass.

"Consequently, they then had to drive back to Sowerby Bridge and come via Littleborough – adding an extra 30 miles to reach him.

"This resulted in extreme distress for my family and my dad.

"I know that the palliative care team have many other patients who are affected by this. We are keen to find any way possible to resolve this issue as soon as possible.”

Calderdale Council’s Director for Regeneration and Strategy, Shelagh O’Neill, said: “The works on Market Street in Hebden Bridge are essential to improve the road surface and reinstate faded lining which will improve safety for those walking or driving on the road.

“Access for those living or working on the road is being maintained where possible in one direction or the other. However, it isn’t possible to allow access all the way through the site, as whilst work is underway the road is fully blocked at points by equipment, vehicles and around 25 workers.

“We apologise for the difficulties this closure is causing for those who require access during the closure period and especially for key workers such as care staff, as we know the diversion route is lengthy.

“We understand the importance of their work and are doing all we can to enable access through the site for these workers when it is safe and possible for this to happen.

“Unfortunately, we’re only able to maintain constant access through the site for emergency blue light services, as each time this is required, work has to stop and the road is cleared.

“This results in wasted/damaged material which can add several thousand pounds to the cost of the work and result in delays which could extend the closure period.

“We’re working hard to enable the road to reopen as quickly as possible.”