CAMPAIGNERS are leading calls for a crossing to be installed to protect youngsters from a “dangerous” junction next to a park.

Concerns have been raised about a stretch of road next to a play area in Woodside Avenue, at its junction with Oak Walk.

A loophole in the parking restrictions mean that cars are able to park in a way that obscures the view of people wishing to cross towards the playing field.

Residents have reported a series of near misses and believe it will only be a matter of time before an accident happens.

It has proved a popular play area for youngsters with both Glenwood and Woodham Ley Primary Schools both being within a mile of the site.

Steven Cole, Tory councillor for St George’s ward, says he is lobbying Essex County Council in a bid to get the crossing put in.

He said: “There’s no doubt about it, the junction is very dangerous and if it stays as it is, somebody will get hurt.

“What we need is for the council to carry out the research about car movements, which will show how many go there.

“Drivers travel along there very quickly, and because of the way cars are parked, which is usually right in front of the play area.

“It means it’s not as easy for them to cross the road safely and that is what is causing the problems.”

Ray Howard, deputy county councillor for highways, says he shares concerns over safety, but added council red tape means campaigners could face a wait before a future crossing arrives.

Mr Howard added that the process could be sped up if residents were to report incidents to the council so it is able to keep a detailed log of events.

He said: “I visited the junction and people living there did say there has been quite a few incidents where a serious accident was narrowly avoided.

“There is ultimately a validation process at County Hall which the plan would have to go through and does take time.

“ A traffic study would have to take place, and it would also need to come before Castle Point’s local highways panel, as this proposal is a safety concern.

“If people were reporting these near misses or accidents as they happen, it would ultimately speed the process up.

“In the previous year, we have operated over budget which is unfortunate.

“However now is the time for people to get their bids and concerns across to us.