A COUNCIL faces criticism for failing to surface a "well-used" lane in a Gwent village.

Residents living near the lane, running parallel with Islwyn Road in Wattsville say it is in a "terrible state".

The lane is owned by Caerphilly council but local member, Councillor Janet Jones, says the highways department will not acknowledge responsibility for it.

"I was told by highways that the parks department was responsible, because the lane is the access route to the local park" she said.

"But that department pointed me back in the direction of the highways department" so no one is taking responsibility."

Councillor Jones has taken the matter to the regeneration scrutiny committee which has agreed to look at the issue.

She added: "The problem is that years ago a lot of lanes were adopted by the council and resurfaced, but many others were left out - including this one.

"It's in a shocking state - there are huge potholes."

Ken Hedges, 81, lives close by, in Woodland View.

"It is a terrible mess," he said.

"I used to walk along it but that's not possible anymore because it's so bad all the way along."

Caerphilly Council were unavailable for comment.