VILLAGERS have slammed traffic-calming measures in Tockholes, saying the scheme is "a fatality waiting to happen".

The scheme features speed limits of 20mph and 30mph, road humps and chicanes in a bid to force motorists to slow down. But concern is growing that the measures are disrupting emergency services, causing motorists to swerve and forcing pedestrians with young children into the middle of the road.

At a recent meeting, residents concluded the scheme was not working and voted to have it removed.

David Grogan, of Tockholes Road, said: "All it has done is swap one danger for many others. Two prime causes for concern are the effects this will now have on emergency services and the chicane which has now been placed less than ten metres from the gateway to the children's play area."

Cash was originally provided in 1997 for traffic-calming and bar markings were put on the road. But more money from the Local Transport Plan's rural pot was allocated last year. A total of 30 slight injury accidents have been recorded in the area since 1996.

Mr Grogan said: "It does not take a rocket scientist to see that the measures are motorcycle friendly and have had no impact on slowing them down. Impatient motorists are now performing dangerous overtaking manoeuvres. The ambulance service has also said the speed humps are far too high and too steep which is a grave concern for transporting head or spinal injury patients.

"And there is no way the road will be able to be cleared in winter by snowploughs. Worse, parents are being forced into the middle of the road by one chicane where there are no pavements."

However, horse riders are pleased with the effects of the safety measures and circulated a petition in May to urge that they should not be changed. Barbara Cronogue, one of 11 riders based at Waddington Farm in the village, said it was the first time in years riders had felt safe without running the "gauntlet of boy racers".

Coun Jean Rigby said: "We are looking at a few aspects which may need altering, but the majority of people are happy with how things are. I will be writing to Mr Grogan."