FORMAL approval to close a country lane near Yate has been given, sparking celebrations among residents.

People living on Frampton End Road in Nibley have campaigned for the ‘dangerous’ road to be shut to traffic amid increasing concerns that a serious accident was imminent.

In March, the Gazette reported how South Gloucestershire Council’s Frome Vale Area Forum voted to close the road after they were presented with a petition signed by 760 people. And at a forum meeting last Thursday (November 28), the road traffic order was given approval.

Resident Nick Carver, who led the closure campaign, said: “It has been a long journey but we have finally achieved what we set out to do.

“During the consultation process 72 per cent of people voted in support of a full closure, 760 people that signed the petition in support of the closure.

“It was great to see that the committee members of the Frome Vale Area Forum recognised the strength of support for the closure. I would like to thank everyone involved for their help and support.”

Marilyn Wright, of Algars Mil, a grade II listed building which has been damaged by heavy goods vehicles on more than one occasion, said:

"I'm very pleased that finally this road is going to be made much safer for its many users.

“It has been a lengthy and sometimes difficult process but we have had great support to achieve this result from so many local residents and from our South Gloucestershire councillors - a big thank you to all involved."

Fellow campaigner Gary Weeks said: “At last, residents will be able to walk, cycle and ride horses along this narrow, winding road without having to worry about the dangers of oncoming, speeding traffic.

“My house has been damaged twice in the last few months by lorries guided by their Sat Navs down this country lane. They didn’t stop and it caused me considerable cost and effort to repair the damage so I’m delighted with the decision to close the road.”

Cllr Dave Hockey (Lib Dem, Frampton Cotterell) said: “Frampton End Road is on the Avon Cycle Way and the Frome Valley Walkway – it is a lovely place for local families to walk, cycle and ride horses.

“I look forward to these leisure activities being able to be enjoyed more safely in the New Year once the road has been closed to through traffic.”