An ambulance was delayed to an emergency call-out in Soham after hitting a speed bump that hasn't had its road markings renewed, it has emerged.  

The incident prompted the town council to send a firmly-worded complaint to county council officials and highlight the state of Fordham Road is now a safety risk.  

The road markings have gradually worn away over time, but it has reached a point with one speed bump where they have gone completely.  

A speed bump in Fordham Road with the road markings worn down. (Image: Cllr David Woricker) Cllr David Woricker, the Mayor of Soham, sent the letter on behalf of the town council which agreed the matter needs to be addressed. 

The letter said: “Road maintenance is not an aesthetic luxury, it is a vital part of road safety. 

“Pedestrian crossings, speed bumps, and double yellow lines should be replaced regularly on a planned maintenance schedule that is budgeted for and staffed appropriately.”  

It continued: “Soham Town Council is saying enough is enough.  

“Cambridgeshire County Councillors set our council tax, it is our county councillors who set the budget and it is our elected county councillors who should be making sure Soham is not always last on the list when it comes to essential maintenance work on our roads.” 

Cllr David Woricker, the Mayor of Soham. (Image: Cllr David Woricker) The letter explains the delayed ambulance was attending an emergency call-out to a woman in her 70s who had broken her hip and was unconscious.  

It says the paramedics were concerned the vehicle was damaged, however the East of England Ambulance Service says there is no record of the incident suggesting the impact wasn’t serious.  

A Cambridgeshire County Council spokesperson acknowledged receipt of the letter from Soham Town Council. 

He added: “We will inspect Fordham Road including the road markings and order any necessary repairs in accordance with our highways operational standards.  

“The road markings on Fordham Road are otherwise scheduled to be refreshed in 2025.”