A PETITION has been launched calling for road safety measures to prevent a tragedy on a busy Bournemouth road.

Muscliff mother Chrissy Beatty drew up the petition after one of her children was almost struck by a speeding car on Shillingstone Drive.

Chrissie, 31, who lives in Charlton Close, walks her seven-year-old Alfie and five-year-old William to Epiphany School, along with their three-year-old brother George who goes to playschool.

She said: “Like so many other parents, we cross at the Stratton Road junction which goes straight onto the path on Muscliff Park.

“I am amazed every morning at the speed at which the cars come round the bends.

“I have seen the police there a couple of times but not at 8.30am and 3.30pm when the problems arise.

“Although they slow the cars on that day, it doesn’t work long term.”

Chrissie’s campaign, which has already received the backing of 150 parents and local residents, has also won support from local councillors Ron Whittaker and Anne Rey.

Cllr Whittaker said he was frustrated by the long delays in resolving the situation, despite “repeated representations” to Bournemouth council officers.

He told the Daily Echo: “There are plans to increase play provision in the park so road safety action is what we are again asking for.

“There have already been two accidents.

“Shillingstone Drive is the main route between Holy Epiphany and Muscliff primary schools and our fear is that there could be a serious accident if action isn’t taken soon.”

The petition calls on the council’s chief executive Pam Donnellan to “take immediate action to slow and calm traffic along Shillingstone Drive before there is a tragic accident involving a child”.

Concerned parents and residents are also asking for road markings banning parking at the Muscliff School gate on Shillingstone Drive.