THE city council has been challenged to "walk its talk" and make big improvements to the city's pedestrian facilities.

Although local people who travel by foot have been put at the top of the council's hierarchy of road users - a recent consultation suggests that in reality they are at the bottom of the heap.

The survey by Transport 2000 North Lancashire reveals that people travelling on foot in Lancaster face an obstacle course of dangers and delays.

When asked about their journeys by foot, three quarters of people pointed to problems they face when crossing particular roads.

Among the many problem spots highlighted in Lancaster were Meeting House Lane, Rosemary Lane and the junction by St Peter's Cathedral. Many people were also angry about how long they have to wait at pelican crossings, and how little time they are given to cross, especially at the crossing at Stonewell, Waterstones and on Cable Street.

Pavement parking was also identified as a major problem, followed by difficulties caused by high kerbs, cobbles and damaged flagstones.

Co-ordinator Sue Holden said: "We challenge the city council to 'walk the talk' by getting a comprehensive programme of investment in pedestrian networks included in the county council's Local Transport Plan.

"It's no good pleading poverty if you haven't actually asked for the funding in the first place, nor prioritised travel by foot over other transport modes much lower in the hierarchy of road users."