Residents on an Oxford estate are fighting plans to build a second entrance to the John Radcliffe Hospital, writes Alison Bartlett.

Proposals to create further access to the hospital from Saxon Way at Northway Estate, Headington, are due to be considered in the autumn.

An initial application for the entrance was withdrawn in October, 1996, after a wave of public concern.

The latest application to allow access to emergency vehicles, buses and pedestrians looks likely to be approved, despite fierce opposition from residents. Retired city councillor Betty Standingford, from Meaden Hill, Headington, said: "The proposed entrance will emerge on to Saxon Way at the top of the hill at a dangerous point.

"We need a bus link from the Northway Estate to the John Radcliffe Hospital, but to take it up Saxon Way through a residential area is totally unsuitable."

Cllr Tom Richardson, who represents the area on the county council, back the public opposition.

He said: "I regard the behaviour of the health service as a disgrace.

"A teaching hospital is a good thing, but it mustn't be allowed to expand into a monster." Paul Sempel, principal planning officer for Oxford City Council, said: "The Department of Transport would not allow a further access point on to the northern bypass between the London Road roundabout and the Marston interchange.

"So fears about the construction of a major road being built though Northway Estate to the bypass are unfounded."

Oxford Bus Company spokesman Jonathan Radley said: "If there was a bus link built between the Northway Estate and the JR we would use it to provide a service.