COUNCILLORS believe more bollards will help prevent cyclists using a narrow footpath in Marston as a “dangerous” shortcut.

They want to tackle the problem on the footpath, which runs along Parry Close and on to Purcell Road, before the planned widening and resurfacing of the cycle lane linking Marston with the city centre is complete.

There are concerns that with more cyclists using the improved lane, there will be more taking the shortcut, which residents say is dangerous. Those living in Parry Close have warned that somebody could get seriously hurt if it continues.

John Maguire, 55, believes the situation has been getting worse.

He said: “It’s crazy. Just the other day, my neighbour nearly ran over two cyclists who came along the footpath and on to Parry Close.”

His wife Pauline, 51, added: “It will take an accident to alert people to this problem.”

Neighbour Max Holden added: “When I’m reversing my car in Parry Close, you just can’t see the cyclists coming out of the footpath.

“They should be using the main cycle route on Edgeway Road instead.”

There is already a bollard either end of the footpath but cyclists are able to get around them.

Mark Lygo, county councillor for Marston and Northway, said: “More bollards would force cyclists to dismount or reduce speed when they come out of the footpath.”

Marston city councillor Mary Clarkson added: “There is a real danger when cyclists shoot out.

“There will be a meeting in the next week or two to discuss how best to sort this out.

“I’m happy to put forward ward money to pay for bollards at either end of the footpath.

“Ideally work will be carried out at the same time as work is done on the cycle lane.”

The resurfacing work will take place between Fairfax Avenue south to Edgeway Road through Croft Road recreation park and will start on July 29. It’s estimated to take four weeks and is costing the county council £157,000.