CALLS have been made to fix 'dangerous' and crumbling steps outside a shop.

Residents in Great Harwood said they have become so concerned over the state of the steps outside Rays Cut Price Store in Queen Street they fear someone will soon be seriously injured.

The problem has been reported to the council, however the shop owner said there was some confusion over who owns the land they are on.

A former councillor said that the steps have been an issue for some time and that he fears for elderly residents using them.

Ian Robinson, who was a councillor in Great Harwood between 2010 and 2014, said: "It's a mess.

"I've spoken to quite a lot of people about the steps, they're dangerous.

"One old women suffered a fall on them and there's been a few complaints.

"It's a serious issues in the area especially when it's dark.

"More needs to be done, it's a matter of public safety, there's a duty for the council to keep people safe."

The steps are near to several shops in the town and lead up to the path in front of Rays Cut Price Store.

Mr Robinson, 62, said that he think the failure to resolve such issues is resulting to a decline in the town.

He said: "Great Harwood used to be the crown of Hyndburn but it's been declining very, very fast because of things like this.

"This needs to be cleaned up, it's been going on for too long."

Resident Ted Wilson, 72, and volunteer for Great Harwood civic society, frequently walks past the steps with his dog.

Mr Wilson said: "It is a bit of a mess and could be dangerous.

"Someone is going to have a trip and put in a substantial claim if nothing is done about it.

"I have very strong feelings about the local area, frankly I'm not happy that issues like this go on."

Cllr Gareth Molineux, who represents Great Harwood on Hyndburn Council said: "The steps are clearly unsafe.

"They are on private property and to my understanding the council has written to the landowner about the issue.

"The council doesn't have the right powers to force them to take immediate action.

"That doesn't mean the council are not taking action and taking appropriate steps."

Imran Akram, who runs Rays Cut Price Store, said: " We are the tennant here and not the owner of the building.

"We share the steps with the takeaway next door and the tennant there is also unsure who owns the steps.

"We are jointly contacting our landlord to find out. If we are responsible we will carry out the work."