A resident says he has been passed from pillar to post after raising safety concerns over exposed drains at Watney Market in Shadwell.

Thomas Turner believes the metal grating from drainage channels outside the Thomas Neale pub and Santander bank was stolen about four months ago.

He said: “As a result ditches approximately 10cm deep were exposed. Local traders and residents fashioned improvised covers from pieces of broken wood, card, plastic, and fibre board.

“But these improvised covers and the ditches beneath are a trip hazard and make the area look shabby and horrible.

Since reporting it Mr Turner says he has been thrown forwards and backwards between Tower Hamlets Council and various housing associations trying to determine whose responsibility it is.

He said: “The lack of action on this is shameful, especially as it is a health and safety risk but also because it contributes to the overall shabbiness of Watney Market.

“I thought the council wanted to tidy up the borough in preparation for the Olympics, but they have done nothing. It’s incredible as so many people go walk through the market.”

A council spokesman said: “We are aware of this issue and officers are working to bring about a solution as soon as possible.”