WORK is about to start planting trees and laying a cycle lane along a road in Sedgefield.

Villagers have campaigned for years to have Beacon Lane closed to traffic.

The road is often used as a rest stop by travellers and other problems include speeding motorists and fly-tipping. But Durham County Council has consistently refused to close the lane, saying it had to stay open for utilities companies and emergency services.

Councillor Ken Manton, leader of the council and the local member, has been criticised for refusing to back the villagers in their call for a lockable barrier.

A spokeswoman for Durham County Council said markings on the ground noticed by residents are not preparations for a barrier.

She said: "There is going to be some digging so we need to find out where the uti- lities have their pipes and cables.

"We are going to plant some trees there and we don't want to put them where the roots are going to cause problems for the utilities.

"The cycle route is going to go down the lane and that will then link in with part of the national cycle route."

However, residents have critisised the council for not keeping them informed.