HOMEOWNERS along a stretch of a ‘dangerous’ rural lane in Nibley are celebrating victory in their long campaign to have the road closed to traffic.

Residents say they are delighted South Gloucestershire Council has supported their petition to shut Frampton End Road to through traffic which they say was becoming increasingly dangerous.

The authority’s Frome Vale Area Forum has now backed up the decision with the funding to get it closed. Councillors on the forum have agreed to pay the £30,000 costs to close the lane, which links Coalpit Heath with Iron Acton and has been widely regarded as a ‘death trap’ for many years.

Resident Nick Carver, who led the closure campaign with a petition signed by 760 people, said: "After many years of campaigning for the closure of Frampton End Road by a dedicated team of people, it was fantastic that the members of the Frome Vale Area Forum approved the funding for the closure of the road to motor vehicles.

“This will now enable many local people to more safely enjoy the area for recreational purposes.”

Marilyn Wright, of Algars Mill on Frampton End Road, said: “So many users of this road have supported its closure for many years and I'm delighted that the Frome Vale Area Forum gave their full backing for completion of the scheme. “Algars Mill, a grade II listed building, has been damaged by a heavy goods vehicle and many residents of the road have endured continual damage to their properties and dry-stone walls.

“Several users of the road have reported terrifying 'near misses' and there have been many accidents and numerous deaths of pets, including a horse.”

She added: “The road will be able to be used much more safely for the benefit of walkers, horse-riders and cyclists.”

Former local councillor and member of the Bristol Thursday Old Time Cyclists club, Alan Bracey said: “This is a huge step forward in making these roads very much safer to cycle.

“Over the years it has become increasingly dangerous while riding a bike only to be met by large and sometimes speeding vehicles whose only thought has been to get to their destination as quickly as possible with little regard for other road users.”

Gary Weeks, who lives on Frampton End Road, said: “I am delighted and relieved that this project is now coming to a successful conclusion after seeing an increase in traffic and lorries using this lane due to sat-nav directions.

“We will all be able to enjoy this rural area whilst the traffic remains on the main roads.”

Frampton End Road, Mayshill and Station Road will be closed at three points and a 20mph speed limit will be introduced. The £30,000 will pay for a statutory consultation, scheme design and new bollards and signage.