THE linking up of a vital footpath at Kings Barton is set for the next few months, although a developer said it may be "an accident waiting to happen".

The extended path along the Ridgeway will create a through route through the partially-constructed estate but safety issues were raised at the latest forum.

The path will be properly surfaced but there are no obvious diversions routes during the resurfacing for pedestrians especially parents taking children to and from Barton Farm Academy.

The estate builder Cala Homes is looking at temporarily diverting the path.

Ian Curry, regional technical director of Cala Homes, raised the issue of safety: "Trying to get an alternative route through a building site while a footpath is being built is going to be a challenge. To cordon off areas for a temporary time, I can't promise anything. A path through a building site is an accident waiting to happen."

Jon Woods, Hampshire Countryside Service strategic manager, said there should be sufficient room to re-route a temporary path around the resurfacing.

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City councillor Jane Rutter said: "The residents will be very pleased. It is all very late. Those of us who live nearby having talking about it for years."

Mr Woods said the work would not be completed before the end of May and that workmen would avoid working during the 'school run' hours in the morning and afternoon.

City councillor Kelsie Learney said the path would become a "potential cycling and pedestrian superhighway from Weeke to Headbourne Worthy.

The Kings Barton Forum comprises city and parish councillors, the Kings Barton Residents Association and representatives of Cala.

It heard that the city council is seeking to appoint a new Kings Barton community development officer to replace Chris Hughes, who has resigned. The role, on a two-year contract, is partially funded by Cala Homes.

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