A gaping hole in a pavement has been left wide open since October.

The drain missing a cover on Croxdale Road has been left with just a sign covering the gap advising pedestrians that Ringway are working on behalf of Hertfordshire County Council.

Vice chairman of Elstree and Borehamwood Residents Association Lawrence Stack initially reported the problem last year, but was concerned that nothing had been done about it.

After contacting borough councillors he was advised that it was an issue for Hertfordshire County Council to advise on.

After being passed on to the Highways team they advised him that this was private land and needed to be dealt with by the land owner.

Mr Stack said: “Everyone has been passing the buck and leaving this dangerous problem. No one wants to know.

“I am furious that no one will do anything about it, someone has to be responsible for maintain this.

“It’s disgraceful that is down to me as a concerned citizen to chase this up because I’m worried that someone might get hurt.”

Less than a mile away another trip hazard was reported this week which has not been addressed.

John Hayes assistant of St Martins Church, Shenley noticed a loose paving slab on a set of stairs off Shenley Road.

He too tried to contact local authorities to report the issue but was concerned that the problem was not being taken seriously.

He said: “I do not know why they cannot just put a sign up to let people know it is dangerous.

“Anyone old or vulnerable, or even anyone not paying attention will just go flat on their face.

“It is not good enough. Someone could severely hurt themselves, it’s a serious health and safety issue.”

Deputy Director Environment at Hertfordshire County Council Rob Smith said: “Neither of the issues, in Croxdale Road and Shenley Road, Borehamwood, are in locations that Hertfordshire County Council are responsible for maintaining.

“We have no jurisdiction to take action in response to issues on private land and we do not hold records of land owners.

“We are always happy to receive reports of issues on the roads and pavements that the county council maintains. Faults can be reported online at: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/highwayfaults.”

Following the publication of this story, Hertsmere Borough Council have covered over the drain at Croxdale Road and have contacted the private owner of the steps on Shenley Road.