A BUSINESSMAN has criticised local authorities for not clearing Exmouth’s pavements and car parks of ice and snow in the lead-up to Christmas.

David Boase, who runs Boase Jewellery and Antiques, in High Street, said he was annoyed and upset that the town was not cleared and made safer to walk around at what was a crucial time for most businesses.

“The weeks leading up to Christmas are, naturally, a most important time for any retailer in Exmouth,” said Mr Boase.

“For myself, the extra income earned in December helps to keep the shop running during the difficult months of January, February and March.

“So why were the pavements and car parks not cleared of ice and snow and made safe for shoppers and residents at such an important time?

“I can’t tell you how annoyed and upset I am to be let down so badly by whoever is responsible for town management in Exmouth.”

Mr Boase added: “It is truly beyond comprehension why it is necessary to spend so much money on the Strand Gardens, but have no plans whatsoever to maintain the general infrastructure of the town at such an important time for local businesses and residents alike.

“I have been trading in Exmouth for more than 25 years and paid my rates during that period, which for the present year are �4,247.

“Surely some of that money should be used to maintain the pavements and car parks when the weather is bad.”

As reported in the Journal two weeks ago, civic leaders blasted county highways chiefs for not gritting major routes throughout parts of East Devon.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Transportation, said the recent cold snap had been an extremely testing spell of cold weather.

He said gritting teams were committed to doing their utmost to keep roads as safe and clear as possible.