The 'danger road' between Norfolk villages is a growing concern for residents and campaigners alike. A new path is desperately needed to protect pedestrians and cyclists from the risk of speeding drivers on Burnthouse Lane, according to locals in Hethersett and Little Melton. This narrow, unlit road is a daily commute for schoolchildren and a popular route for dog walkers, raising serious safety questions.
The issue was highlighted in a recent rural road safety survey, with one respondent expressing a chilling sentiment: 'I live on Burnthouse Lane in Little Melton. Families walk along our road, school children walk to school, dog walkers, cyclists... I wonder who will die first?'
South Norfolk MP Ben Goldsborough has taken up the cause, urging Norfolk County Council to use the £15 million in Active Travel funds recently received from the government to create a safe new path between Hethersett and Little Melton. He has launched a petition at www.surveymonkey.com/r/FundThePath, stating, 'When residents are asking who will die first, something needs to be done urgently.'
Mr. Goldsborough emphasizes the serious risk to life on Burnthouse Lane and believes that the county council won't take action unless forced to. He encourages concerned citizens to sign his petition, sending a strong message to the council.
However, a Norfolk County Council spokesperson claims that no accidents have been recorded at this location and that the site is not currently part of their local cycling and walking plan. Despite this, they acknowledge the safety concerns raised by the local community and the MP, promising a full response later this week.
The council's plans for the Active Travel fund remain undisclosed, leaving the future of Burnthouse Lane and the safety of its users uncertain. The controversy surrounding the road's safety and the council's response continues to spark debate and calls for action.
