A group of residents are concerned for their children’s safety after a two-metre wide cycle link was installed on their street.
The creation of the cycle route through Parliament Street, just off Sheldon Road in Chippenham, has caused worry and anger amongst neighbours.
The new route was installed in mid-May, after initial works dropped the kerb last year, via the demolition of a wall at the end of the no through road.
This was replaced with a singular bollard, but residents say the new scheme is “dangerous”, both for them and those who will use it.
The cycle link leads directly onto a turning circle, while the road and pavements are already too narrow and busy to accommodate more traffic, say neighbours.
Louise Merrit, who has lived on Parliament Street for 18 years, said: “We are concerned for the safety of cyclists. The link stops in the middle of a turning circle and, whilst there are give way lines, there have already been two near misses.
“Cars park along the pavement so people have to walk in the road already, it’s all quite dangerous and children use the route to walk to school.
“It’s just not safe… we’re worried for the kids in the street. We still want our children and grandchildren to be able to play safely outside.”
Many are also worried about the size of the opening, with motorbikes already allegedly using the cut through.
A petition against the route has received over 100 signatures.
Residents emphasised they were supportive of making the area more accessible but were “passionate” about ensuring this is done in a safe way.
Cllr Caroline Thomas, cabinet member for transport, said: “Following a request made to the Chippenham Local Highway and Footway Improvement Group for access improvements for cyclists, pedestrians and those using mobility aids, the scheme at Parliament Street was installed.
“The idea of the scheme is to create a separate cycle link to provide access between Parliament Street and Little Down, ensuring the safety of both cyclists and pedestrians using the route and reducing the potential for conflict or collisions.
“The link will also provide an alternative low traffic route for cyclists to access the town centre, avoiding Sheldon Road and large parts of Ladyfield Road.”
Cllr Thomas added the no through road remains operational for other vehicles with bollards, signage and road markings in place to indicate this.
The council will also be adding an additional bollard to address residents’ concerns before an independent road safety audit is undertaken.
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