RECENT articles and letters suggest a bollard is not a popular proposal in the Straylands area. It is undoubtedly unpopular and unwanted by Hopgrove residents who have unresolved traffic issues of their own.

As a resident of Hopgrove Lane South I have seen the trickle of traffic rise during the last 11 years to a torrent of more than 5,000 vehicles in 24 hours. More than 85 per cent of these exceed a speed limit imposed to keep residents safe. That is more than 4,250 speedsters in one day breaking the law and risking the lives of others.

This blatant disregard for human life in a residential area should be addressed before the inconvenience of queueing traffic. And yes, we have that too, as all those who live here, or cut through, will have experienced.

Many accidents have occurred at the junction of Hopgrove Lane South and Malton Road because someone has become impatient or is speeding. Do the reasons for the proposed Straylands Grove rising bollard also qualify Hopgrove Lane South to get one, ensuring that residents only shall use the road?

Why don't we have another one at Walmgate Bar - that should stop any traffic becoming wedged. We could have rising bollards at all road junctions - that should ensure we find alternative routes or means of transport.

Irene J Mace,

Driftwood Cottage,

Hopgrove Lane South,

York.

Updated: 09:40 Friday, March 04, 2005