PEOPLE living near the site of a new bypass being constructed in the Valleys claim a change of plan could leave their children in danger.

Residents of Halls Crossing in Woodfieldside, Blackwood, who live just yards from where the Sirhowy Enterprise Way will be, say the plans for the new road originally showed a wall between their houses and the road.

But now, they say a 2.5 metre fence is to be put up instead. The residents are concerned that if the fence is damaged or vandalised in any way, it could lead to their children or pets finding their way on to the busy road. A metre-high wall has already been built between houses further along their lane and the new road.

The controversial £55 million bypass sparked a major protest by environmental campaigners last year, when work started to cut down trees in St David's Wood to make way for the road.

The road is now due to open by spring 2006.

Resident Brett Tomlin said a wall would be more secure than a fence. "There will be a crash barrier on the road side of the wall so I'm not too worried about vehicles coming through in an accident.

"But my children Angharad and Sion are two and six years old, and I am worried that if the fence is not very strong and was blown over or vandalised then the children could get on to this road."

Neighbour Ken Davies added residents were also concerned about how the fence would look, as their homes are so close to where it will stand. A council spokesman said: "It is important to stress that these proposals do not compromise road safety.

"As this is a change to the original plans, the issue will be considered by the planning committee next week."