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Red stripe on rural lane sparks social media storm

Emma-Jayne Blackman
BBC Jersey
BBC red walking path painted in country lane BBC
The pedestrian lane is a bright shade of red

Residents of a Jersey parish have described a red stripe painted on a country lane as an "eyesore" and completely out of place.

The stripe is part of a road safety initiative to separate pedestrians from vehicles on two roads - La Croix and La Rue de la Haye des Puits near Grouville School - but many residents have said it clashes with the area's natural beauty.

"It's a monstrosity," said Gerald Fletcher, one of several local residents who have written to the parish constable to complain.

"This is a beautiful lane used by walkers and dog walkers. Why spoil it with such a harsh, urban-looking stripe?"

Andy Jay A red stripe with a white border on a lane next to a schoolAndy Jay
The bright red stripe runs down a rural lane near Grouville School

Social media posts reflect similar sentiments, with hundreds of comments lamenting the visual impact of the paint job.

Critics said the stripe detracted from the rural charm of the area and set a precedent for urban-style changes in the countryside.

However, Grouville constable Mark Labey defended the decision, citing safety as the top priority.

"We had a choice between a sandy yellow and a bright red," he explained.

"We went with the red because it's a warning colour - and that's exactly what we need."

But Fletcher and some other residents had questioned this, claiming there was no evidence of any accidents in the area that had been painted.

Man standing in driveway surrounded by trees.
"It's a monstrosity," said Gerald Fletcher, one of several residents who have written to the parish constable

The move comes after a 2022 government report recommended painted pavement demarcations on roads near schools to protect pedestrians, particularly children.

Some parents from nearby Grouville School have praised the new stripe for its clarity and visibility.

"It's a strong colour, and it's important," said one parent.

"The road's pretty narrow, so it helps clearly define where people should be walking. I think it's great. It does what it needs to do."

Parent from Grouville School standing at school gate
Parents from Grouville School have praised the new stripe for its clarity and visibility

Another supporter added: "It makes people realise there's a path. It separates the road from the pedestrian area - it's simple and effective."

Despite the divide in opinion, the aim remains to make the roads safer for everyone.

In a written letter to the constable, residents have said they "totally agree with him that safety is paramount, but we would ask him to reconsider the colour".

They said they were awaiting a response.

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