A group of residents who are opposing Department of Infrastructure proposals to redesign Tromode Road have canvassed the neighbourhood to gauge public opinion.

A questionnaire was hand delivered to 240 houses, with the overwhelming majority agreeing that only minor changes and maintenance work is necessary.

Don Lindsay, who organised the survey, said: ’The response to the survey was high at 33.3% and reflected the strongly held views of many that the proposals are unnecessary, the active travel corridor would not result in increased walking or cycling and that the money could be spent more wisely on other projects.’

The plans for an active travel corridor involving shared space between pedestrians and cyclists are dangerous, according to one local resident.

Sandy Wrigley lives in Tromode Heights and walks with her wheelchair-bound son, Owen, on a daily basis along Tromode Road.

She said: ’I am very concerned. We walk every day here.

’I don’t like to be too far away from home because of Owen’s epilepsy. I think a shared cycle and pedestrian way on such a narrow path would be dangerous.

’I’m partially deaf and already always have to be on my guard. My husband is a cyclist and he’s not happy about the idea either.’

Mr Lindsay said: ’A massive 96.4% (of respondents to the survey) agreed that only minor changes and maintenance work to Tromode Road is necessary. Importantly, it was stressed that the character of the road should be retained.’

He added: ’The road is seen as a picturesque country road that has character - and the suggestion of widening it to allow for larger vehicles such as buses was not considered welcome or needed.’

He said a key concern was safety for pedestrians who currently use the existing pavement for exercise, walking their dogs or taking their children to school.

’Over 92.6% said safety was an issue and the mingling of pedestrians and cyclists is regarded as dangerous,’ said Mr Lindsay, ’particularly for those with small children, dog walking, elderly or disabled.’

An online petition against the proposals has so far attracted 253 signatures.

The Department of Infrastructure says it held two ’successful and well-attended’ community meetings last month, where the scheme was outlined.

A spokesperson for the DoI said: ’The events were designed to allow the department to gain a clear understanding of the views of all stakeholders but particularly those of local residents.

’The feedback generated by these events is currently in the process of being addressed.

’The department welcomes this additional information and will be considering the views of residents when it determines what should be done on and around Tromode Road.’