RECKLESS drivers are still smashing into the barriers protecting a new lane for cyclists in Colchester, months after they were installed.

Ten crumpled barriers have now been reported to Essex County Council in Station Way and North Station Road since semi-permanent barriers were installed roughly two months ago.

The controversial barriers were put in as part Essex County Council’s Safer, Greener, Healthier scheme, which aims to gives walkers and cyclists more priority in the town.

One resident of nearby Prior Way, who has reported all of the smashes to County Hall, said a serious accident was just around the corner.

“Regardless of what you think about the new cycle lanes my point is it clearly is not safer than what we had before,” he said.

“There have now been ten strikes in about two months which shows it is demonstrably less safe than before.

“It might be greener, particularly because the barriers are green, but it can’t be called safer. In fact, I would say it is considerably more dangerous.

“I’m sure cyclists are pleased to have their own lane there but sooner or later one of them is going to get hit, either by a bus or by a barrier.”

An Essex Highways spokesman said the number of vehicle strikes was on the decline.

He added: “Strikes have reduced markedly since we modified the layout and we will continue to monitor the situation and make any further changes if needed. More permanent barriers similar to those now elsewhere in the town are under active consideration.

“These measures are vital to enable better social distancing for both pedestrians and cyclists and are part of longer-term efforts to move generally to more sustainable transport and travel which will be safer, greener and healthier for all of us.”