WORRIED neighbours are pushing for a crossing at a busy junction after a pedestrian was involved in a collision with a car.

The accident happened in Downhall Park Way, Rayleigh, near the T-junction with Rawreth Lane, and has prompted concerns about safety measures there.

A 50-year-old woman suffered minor head injuries after the collision with a red Citroen Saxo, at about 6pm last Thursday, and was taken to Southend Hospital.

Witnesses said she was wearing dark-coloured clothing and the driver, who was coming from Rayleigh Leisure Centre, did not seem to see her.

There are traffic lights at the junction, but no pedestrian crossing for those wanting to cross Downhall Park Way, and neighbours have also complained the area is poorly lit.

One witness, who did not wish to be named, said: "Luckily, the woman escaped with a few cuts and bruises, but it made me think there is no pedestrian crossing at that junction.

"There isn't much light there either, so at night it's very hard for drivers to see people and for pedestrians to know when it's safe to cross."

Local councillor Ron Oatham said a pegasus crossing - with high-positioned buttons to help horse riders - was once earmarked for the site.

He said: "I'm almost certain when planning permission was granted for nearby developments, developers were required to contribute towards establishing a pegasus crossing at that point.

"I've had a number of people contact me recently about it and have asked Essex County Council's highway's department to have a look at it."

Mr Oatham and fellow councillor Chris Black have spoken to people living near the junction and said they supported a crossing.

Essex County Council's highways department will now investigate whether a crossing should be installed.

Council spokesman Scott Wilson said: "Essex County Council takes the issue of road safety very seriously and will investigate any areas where concerns are raised with us."