AN angry politician has reported Worcestershire County Council to a Government watchdog over claims it is "ripping off" taxpayers.

Councillor Richard Udall has demanded a national investigation over its deal with highways firm Ringway, claiming it is "unfair" to the public.

The Advertiser can reveal how the Labour figurehead has made an official complaint to the Competition and Markets Authority, which probes monopolies.

Back in 2013 bosses at County Hall signed a fresh deal with Ringway to manage the roads and provide the council's highways service.

The agreement means any person or organisation looking to install a dropped kerb or crossing on their land must get Ringway to do it, preventing any shopping around.

Ringway charges £50 for renewing a dropped kerb while new crossing constructions cost around £86 per square metre, with Councillor Udall calling it "unfair".

But council chiefs have responded by saying gypsies are going around offering jobs on the cheap, resulting in "very poor quality" footpath structures.

They also say the deal with Ringway is aimed at preventing "rogue" contractors from damaging roads and pavings.

Councillor Udall said: "Ringway has complete control, a monopoly, they can charge what they want and make huge profits.

"By taking out the competition they have guaranteed themselves profitable work at the expense of the taxpayer.

"Unfortunately there is a complete lack of willingness to change, they have been awarded the contract and any criticism of the council is treated as an irritation and ignored.

"The privatisation of this service has not been in the interest of the taxpayer, they are paying more for less."

He also said a previous list of 'approved contractors' would allow people to pay in instalments, a practice which has now long ended.

Councillor Marcus Hart, the cabinet member for highways, said: "Ringway is our highways maintenance contractor having won the contract through a competitive tendering process which ensures quality and competitive prices.

"They provide crossovers as a complete service including all administrative, management and site costs.

"Where crossovers are permitted they are strictly controlled for reasons of road safety and to prevent damage to highways assets.

"They often have a significant 'value-adding' effect to the accessed property."

The Competition and Markets Authority says it investigates claims of a "market sector not working well", "poor competition", unfair sales and any examples of so-called "cartels".

A spokesman for the body said last night it could not comment on individual complaints.