A WINCHESTER resident has won his battle to remove cycle lane markings on a road near his home.

John O’Leary raised concerns in 2012 about the dangerous use of the cycle path that runs between Rances Way, in Badger Farm, and Stanmore Lane because cyclists were racing down the track and into the path of cars backing out of their drives.

At the time he warned: “Someone is going to be killed.”

Parents have also become concerned for the safety of their children walking to nearby schools.

Now Winchester City Council has agreed to remove the markings.

A spokesman said: “There was a cycle lane painted on the road on Rooks Down Road that goes straight into the cul-de-sac.

“We believe this had been there for many years. It makes it look as if cyclists have the right of way into the cul-de-sac and therefore they may not realise it is actually a junction.

“We have ordered these cycle lane markings to be removed, but it will be a few weeks before the contractors burn off the markings.”

He added: “We have checked with Hampshire County Council and there are no personal injury accidents in that area for the past five years.”

Mr O’Leary, of Rances Way, said although he is pleased, he doubts it will make a difference.

“I’m still very dubious because when you have a sloping hill like we have, people are going to come down there at a minimum of 20mph.

“It won’t make much difference I don’t think, but what can you do? You can’t predict what is going to happen.”

He added: “I’m pleased with the fact that they have actually done something and agreed with me that this should never have been put in in the first place.”