KINGS Barton homeowners have stepped up their campaign to have a crossing installed on Andover Road.

The Residents Association has now started a petition after expressing its "frustration" at Hampshire County Council.

Last year, a pedestrian was killed whilst walking across the busy main road.

Since then, locals, MP Steve Brine, councillors and headteacher of Kings Barton Academy Nicola Wells have been driving for change.

A spokesperson for the residents association said: "The Residents Association of Kings Barton has expressed frustration at the lack of progress being made by Hampshire County Council to install a pedestrian crossing on the Andover Rd. This is especially shocking as this inaction comes after the death of a pedestrian last year.

"More than 2,000 houses are due to be built on Kings Barton with the result that Andover Road is changing quickly from a semi-rural road to a residential one.

"Starting from September, every day more and more residents from Weeke and Harestock have been using the new Kings Barton centre and the Barton Farm Primary Academy and the residents of Kings Barton have been using the Henry Beaufort school and the facilities in Harestock and Weeke.

"Pedestrian traffic is therefore increasing dramatically. The residents feel that action is needed now, to reduce speed and support the safe passage of residents between Kings Barton, Harestock and Weeke."

The petition is asking for the council to install the crossing, as well as improve walking and cycling routes.

It also asks that Andover Road is reduced to 30mph – reflecting the crossing and the new residential nature of the area.

The spokesperson added: "The project for a crossing on Andover Rd has the support of local residents, local city and county councillors, the Kings Barton Forum, Barton Farm Academy, local secondary schools, professional dog walkers and running clubs, including the organisers of the Winchester 10k running race.

However, with plans for works on the M3, is the situation worsening as traffic and HGVs use the Andover Road to navigate road diversions. Urgent action is needed to keep all residents safe."

The petition form is available on Headbourne Worthy Parish Council website.

It should be printed, signed, scanned and emailed back to mikes1slinn@btinternet.com.