Concern over 'unsightly' paving

A Leicester solicitor is calling for the city council to improve the paving near his office.

Solicitor Glenn Turner said recent paving slabs are not suitable for high-traffic areas.

He said the new slabs are covered in marks because they absorb chewing gum and grease from food dropped on them.

Adrian Russell, from Leicester City Council, said the paving was a high- quality product similar to that used in other cities in England.

'Pretty unsightly'

He said the stains are more noticeable when the slabs are new.

"I think it [the paving] looks absolutely superb," Mr Russell added.

But Mr Turner said: "The slabs seem to be sponge-like and porous and they just soak up any dirt or litter that is dropped on them like chewing gum, fatty foods and sugary drinks.

"It leaves dark stains and looks pretty unsightly."

Leicester City Council is using steam-cleaning machines to remove gum and other litter on the streets.

The slabs cost about £150 each and are brought from China, Mr Turner said.

He said more testing should have been done on the granite slabs before they were bought to ensure they were a suitable product.