A RESIDENT’S campaign to have a “ludicrous” speed limit lowered on a dangerous stretch of road has been backed by councillors.

Fears someone could be killed on Heath Road were first raised by resident Anne Robinson at Mistley Parish Council’s meeting in November.

She called for the speed limit to be reduced from 40mph to 30mph to make it safer and voiced concerns about extra traffic from an expected new development of 135 homes and allotments off nearby Harwich Road.

The issue was raised again at Mistley Parish Council’s meeting on Monday night, with councillors backing her campaign and submitting its case to the Local Highways Panel.

Martin Rayner, Mistley Parish Council chairman, said: “Mrs Robinson was concerned about improvements to Heath Road and changes there given the fact that the road has increased with a number of dwellings but it is still a 40mph limit through there.

“There is a bus route, and it’s narrow and it’s got some sharp bends. It makes sense that that becomes a 30mph in Mistley and 30mph the other end when it hits Bradfield.”

He said the council has made a bid to turn it into a 30mph zone and improve the signage as some of the signs have fallen over.

Carlo Guglielmi, Mistley councillor, said: “I think the signage is important as there are a lot of concealed entrances there.

“We really need to work with the Essex Highways officer and suggest they come to the sight to discuss what can and cannot be done.

“The speed survey is the important one as that can determine if the speed limit can be reduced or not.”

A spokesman for Essex Highways said: “The Tendring Local Highway Panel has received a petition from residents to reduce the speed limit along Heath Road.

“The Essex County councillor for the area is now working with the parish council and local residents and will submit a Local Highway Panel application with a proposal.

“The panel can then carry out a seven day survey to measure the volume, type and average speeds of vehicles using this particular route. An officer can then attend site to validate the scheme and report back."