ANXIOUS residents are calling for action to be taken to stop motorists speeding on a dangerous Dudley road that has become an accident blackspot.

A 600 signature petition, which will soon be presented to Dudley Council, requests new traffic lights at the junction of Birmingham New Road and Woodcroft Avenue, to allow those living on the estate to pull out onto the busy carriageway safely.

Gordon Laird, who started the petition, said although there are flashing road signs reminding drivers of the 40mph speed limit "it makes no difference".

The 74-year-old continued: "I've asked the police if we can have a speed camera or even a mobile camera but I was told they haven't got the resources or the people to do it.

"So I decided to go around with a petition and see if there was support for introducing traffic lights so we can get out of the estate safely.

"People are all for it, some were grabbing the board off me so they could sign it."

Mr Laird said he thinks campaigners will have a fight on their hands to secure the traffic lights but is pleased to have the backing of Dudley North MP Ian Austin and local councillors Margaret Aston and Ken Finch.

Cllr Aston said: “Local people are clearly really concerned about this with 600 backing new lights to help prevent accidents.

“I want the council to listen to them and look at what safety measures can be put in place.”

Mr Austin added: “Anyone who travels down the Birmingham New Road regularly will know that speeding is a problem on the road, and I’m really concerned by recent accidents.

“I’ll be working hard to speak up for the 600 local residents that want new traffic lights to tackle this problem and make the road safer for everyone.”