HIGHWAY chiefs are aiming to protect cyclists by redesigning a Totton roundabout that has been the scene of nine accidents in three years.

Hampshire County Council is drawing up plans to improve safety at the junction of the A336 Ringwood Road, Larchwood Road and Hazel Farm Road.

White hatching will be used to reduce the width of lanes at the point where they meet the roundabout.

A county council spokesman said: "Six of the accidents involved cyclists and two involved motorcyclists, so there's obviously a recurring problem that needs addressing.

"We're proposing to reduce the speed of vehicles by enlarging the roundabout and narrowing the approaches."

The £10,000 scheme was given a mixed reception at a meeting of Totton's planning and transport advisory committee.

Chairman George Dart said: "Several of the accidents cited by the county council involved cyclists struck by vehicles emerging from Hazel Farm Road.

"The proposed improvements are designed to move drivers away from the kerb and nearer the centre of the road."

Councillor Edith Randall was one of several members who complained that the roundabout was too close to a pedestrian crossing in Ringwood Road.

Mrs Randall said: "One of the main dangers is being caused by the cyclists themselves.

"It's the worst spot in Totton when it comes to people riding without lights."

Former council chairman Len Harris said he welcomed the county council's attempt to cut the speed of cars and lorries negotiating the roundabout.

But Councillor Dave Russell said the scheme would add to congestion in the area, especially when other routes were closed by accidents or roadworks.

Cones will be used at the roundabout from today.

They are designed to simulate the effect of hatching and allow county council officers to gauge driver reaction.