Buckinghamshire County Council have explained the reasoning behind a delay to important repair work of barriers in a High Wycombe road, which has left a perilous unguarded drop.

One concerned resident of Cheviot Close told the Bucks Free Press: “If you drive down there, especially in the dark, and you’re not careful you could fall down the hill and go straight into someone’s property.

“With children off for the school holidays, this needs to be sorted as soon as possible.”

Transport for Buckinghamshire have acknowledged the delays to the improvement works, citing issues with a cable strike.

Mark Averill, Head of Highways, said: “Transport for Buckinghamshire is aware of the delay to the repair work of the barriers at Cheviot Close, High Wycombe and apologises for any inconvenience caused.

“Unfortunately, there was a cable strike on site. As a result of this, further work has been temporarily postponed for safety reasons whilst this matter is investigated to ensure works can proceed safely.

“In the meantime, temporary barriers are in place to protect both the travelling public and residents.”