DRIVERS on one of the main routes into York could be forced to slow down if a councillor's new campaign is a success.

Skelton councillor Mark Waudby says residents in his ward "frequently" complain about problems getting on to the A19 Shipton Road, where a 60mph limit is in place.

Coun Waudby says he has contacted the Highways Agency to request a meeting.

He plans to call for a 20mph reduction from the roundabout near Rawcliffe Bar to the City of York boundary.

He said motorists struggle to turn on to the A19 from both sides, and pedestrians have trouble crossing.

"I have contacted the Highways Agency to request a meeting to discuss speed reductions on that stretch of road," Coun Waudby told the Evening Press.

"The 60mph limit along that stretch causes substantial difficulties for Skelton residents trying to enter the flow of traffic.

"For as long as I have been a councillor, the speed limit on that stretch has been a constant source of complaints.

"The junctions off the A19 at Skelton are accidents sites waiting to happen.

"Several residents have told me they go to great lengths to avoid the A19 altogether." Liberal Democrat Coun Waudby added: "It is vital that action is taken to reduce the speed limit on this section of the A19, and to introduce a safe environment for people crossing the road.

"I will be asking the Highways Agency to come to Skelton and see for themselves the problems and difficulties faced by local residents on this stretch of road."

Parish councillor Sue Robinson backed Coun Waudby's campaign.

"I am 100 per cent certain he is doing the right thing. Sometimes the traffic is backed up so much you can't get on to the A19, other times the cars are going so fast it is a total deathtrap.

"The road is horrendous and any measures that could help improve things there are fine by me."

But long-term Skelton resident Arthur Huggins disagreed.

"It would be a waste of money. I did 1.9 million miles in my taxi over 20 years and I never had a problem getting on to the A19," he said.

A Highways Agency spokeswoman said the agency would be happy to meet Coun Waudby.

"There are no proposals to introduce speed restrictions on the A19 at Skelton, but we would be happy to meet the councillor and discuss his concerns," she added.

Updated: 11:39 Wednesday, April 17, 2002