People fighting for better pedestrian access under a danger bridge in Hemel Hempstead have been told coating the inside with white paint will not be not viable.

In August Herts Highways pledged to paint the inside of the dark bridge to help drivers spot people walking under it.

But an inspection has revealed water leaks that would prevent any coating remaining in place on the brickwork.

A Highways spokeswoman said residents would be consulted next month (November) on a safety scheme to construct a footpath and one-way
traffic signals through the bridge.

She added: "We are hoping to implement a scheme some time in the next financial year.

"In the interim period, we will be installing additional signs to warn drivers that pedestrians are using the bridge.

"We are also hoping to install lighting in the bridge, but because it is Grade II listed we need to seek permission from Railtrack before we can do that."

The C76 Residents Working Group was formed by Nash Mills mum Helen Lehrle to tackle traffic dangers on her children's walk to school.

It now has the support of hundreds of local residents and thousands of pounds have been secured for long-term road safety measures.

Mrs Lehrle said: "Just a couple of weeks ago a lady turning into Hyde Lane was hit by a car coming though the bridge and the driver said he couldn't see her because it was so dark in there.

"We are just waiting now to have our say over the public consultation."