RESIDENTS want action to stop a narrow lane through Bulwark being used as a "rat run".

Burnt Barn Lane is used by large numbers of cars trying to avoid the speed humps on Burnt Barn Road and Thornwell Road.

People whose homes back onto the lane say they are worried about the safety threat posed by the cars, particularly where the road passes the Western Avenue playing field.

Thornwell ward coun­cillor Armand Watts will meet the head of Monmouthshire high­ways next week to discuss the issue.

Mr Patrick Roach, who lives locally, said: "Something has got to be done about this road.

"I think it should be closed off except for residents and the emergency services before there is a serious accident - my son was nearly knocked on the road.

"It's a rat run and its dangerous with the playground backing onto it.

"We sent in a petition with 100 signatures more than a year ago but nothing has been done."

Councillor Watts said there was a problem and it would only get worse as new housing in the town puts more traffic onto the road network.

He said: "I have a meeting on Monday to discuss Thornwell Road and Burnt Barn Lane.

"The engineers need to look it at but I don't think closing off the road completely is a solution because people need access to the (Chepstow) rugby club and Chartist Way.

"As we get more houses in Chepstow people are going to be looking for short cuts and there are already too many cars using Burnt Barn Lane.

"I am concerned about the amount of traffic, particularly near the playing field."