EXTRA safety measures will be put in place at the development of a new science park and university campus after concerns were raised by users of a popular footpath.

Contractors working for the University of Worcester have put up barriers and signage near to the path on the University Park site off Bromyard Road following complaints by walkers.

As previously reported in your Worcester News, furious footpath users said it had been turned into a “building site” without any warning about work being carried out on the site, including the use of heavy machinery.

Julie Reynolds of nearby Broadway Grove, Dines Green, said the site put residents’ safety at risk and raised questions about why the path had not been re-routed.

At the time, a spokesman for the University of Worcester said officials were investigating safety procedures as a “matter of urgency”. The university has since confirmed it will put up fencing and signage to protect pedestrians.

A spokesman said: “The works in question are taking place on private, university-owned land, which is close to a footpath that is a public right-of-way. Historically, pedestrians have been able to use separate, undesignated tracks – on university-owned land – remote from the official public right of way. Prior to construction beginning, a risk assessment was carried out by the main contractor and method statements were prepared.

“Safety measures, including HERAS and Netlon fencing and the employment of two banksmen were put in place. The university also employed a construction design management co-ordinator whose safety advice has been followed.

“The principal contractor will provide increased protection in the form of further Netlon fencing.

“In addition, the university will erect signage warning the public to keep to the designated public footpaths. There is also an intention to provide an interlocking pedestrian barrier.”