Cycling enthusiasts are calling for two crossings on a busy road which cuts through a retail zone in a bid to improve safety for people on foot and two wheels.

Derek Williams, spokesman for the Norwich Cycling Campaign, said a toucan crossing, is needed on William Frost Way, Costessey, close to the junction with the Dereham Road roundabout off the A47 and Longwater Retail Park.

Norwich Evening News: William Frost Way in Costessey on the edge of NorwichWilliam Frost Way in Costessey on the edge of Norwich (Image: Newsquest)

He added a council-approved crossing further up William Frost Way, as part of the nearby 890-home Persimmon Homes Anglia Festival Park estate in Dereham Road, Easton, is not direct enough.

The crossing is also key to a new Aldi supermarket being built in William Frost Way, although it is unclear who will fund it - Persimmon or Aldi.

Norwich Evening News:

Mr Williams, 69, who has been part of the group which campaigns to improve cycling facilities in Norwich, said: "There is a need for two crossings.

Norwich Evening News: Derek William, spokesman for Norwich Cycling CampaignDerek William, spokesman for Norwich Cycling Campaign (Image: Derek Williams)

"The planning permission granted for the housing requires this direct route not only for homeowners but especially to provide a safe route for school children attending Ormiston Victory Academy.

"The route is also needed by students and staff at Easton College and people attending events at Norfolk Showground.”

A Norfolk County Council spokesman said the local authority did not think a crossing close the roundabout would be appropriate "due to the complexity of crossing a multi-lane layout" adding: "A more appropriate place for a crossing is further north along William Frost Way."

An Aldi spokeswoman said: "The new crossing in William Frost Way was conditioned to be part of Persimmon’s planning application, and subsequently Aldi’s. Aldi has reached out to Persimmon to discuss how this can be delivered."

Norwich Evening News: An artist's impression of how the new Festival Park estate will look in Dereham Road, Easton, when finished by Persimmon Homes AngliaAn artist's impression of how the new Festival Park estate will look in Dereham Road, Easton, when finished by Persimmon Homes Anglia (Image: Persimmon Homes Anglia)

A Persimmon Homes Anglia spokesman said: "Persimmon Homes will be providing two crossings to help residents travel safely and access local amenities. This includes a one over the A47/Longwater Interchange and a further signalised crossing near Aldi."