RESIDENTS in Romsey have demanded a safer crossing in the town.

Those living in Hillier Court and Palmerston House complexes have signed a petition for a safer crossing for Botley Road.

The calls have been backed by town councillor Mark Cooper.

The petition has been signed by 54 residents of Hillier Court and 13 residents at Palmerston House.

Petition organiser, Josie Herbertson, said: "Vehicles travel up and down Botley Road at excessive speeds despite the 30-miles-per-hour speed limit.

"The run down Cemetery Hill seems to encourage speeding. But many of the residents of both Palmerston House and Hillier Court are relatively elderly.

"A pedestrian refuge near the two bus stops is essential so that residents can cross this increasingly busy road in two stages."

Romsey councillor Mark Cooper said he supported the calls, and that he would pass the petition on to Hampshire Highways and Test Valley Borough Council.

Cllr Cooper said: "I fully agree with the need for a safer crossing.

"Residents at Fryers House, the Leonard Cheshire Home next door to Palmerston House, have already asked me to try and create a better and more convenient crossing for Botley Road.

"The new convenience store is also a big draw locally and has increased pedestrian flows considerably.

"I am forwarding the petition. I'm asking for community infrastructure levy funds to be used. The cost of minor road safety works is minor in comparison to the cost of treating a person who is severely injured. It really is time for some joined up thinking."