Residents on Arne Road in Walsgrave, Coventry, have expressed outrage after a bright green parcel locker was installed on their quiet cul-de-sac earlier this month. The 8ft (2.4m) battery-run and solar-powered locker, owned by Yeep!, appeared on a small patch of land just yards from homes, sparking anger among locals who say they were misled about its purpose.
John Davies, 77, said residents were initially told a concrete base was being laid for a salt box. 'We all thought that was a tremendous idea,' he said. 'But then this great big box appeared. Nobody can understand it all.' His wife, Suzanna, 57, described the installation as 'outrageous,' adding that it blocks a neighbour's front window and creates a traffic hazard in the resident-only parking area.
Lynda Congrave, 79, who has lived on the street for 40 years, said the locker is 'disgusting' and poses a risk to children playing nearby. 'If cars are going to come speeding down to drop parcels, they're only young kids. They might run out and there could be somebody run over,' she said.
Coventry City Council confirmed the matter is under investigation to determine if the locker was erected illegally. A spokesman said officers have contacted the landowner and locker company.
Jamie Dickinson, CEO of Yeep!, apologised unreservedly and said the company has deactivated and removed the locker. 'We acknowledge that the location was wholly unsuitable,' he said. 'We have reviewed our internal procedures and are implementing strengthened controls to prevent a similar experience.'
