Cowley residents are being asked whether they want to see a street gate moved to block a rat-run.

Concerns have been raised that a gate installed to stop traffic taking a short cut through Frederick Road has meant drivers taking a longer rat-run through the surrounding streets.

City councillors are now suggesting that the gate should move to Phipps Road to block the rat-run connecting Barns Road and Watlington Road.

It will be the third time residents have been asked what they want done to solve the problem, which was first raised when Oxford City Council's Cowley area committee was formed more than five years ago.

Sue Green, of Phipps Road, said: "We have had an awful lot of traffic since it's been the way it is.

"It's appalling that we're now being asked for our thoughts for the third time. The county council doesn't seem to be interested in what the residents want and they don't even have to pay for this.

"It's going to make a tremendous difference, because you'll only have residents driving along here."

Darren Goodgame, of Phipps Road, said: "The gate was put up to stop the rat-running and it has not stopped it at all, it has pushed it round a bit further.

"People who now go round the longer version get frustrated, because it takes longer, so they go even faster and there's a bit more dangerous driving.

"We thought it was settled the first time it came up. We have now got another chance and I really hope this will be it."

The city council asked residents of the streets affected whether they wanted the gate moved in 2004. More than half backed a move.

The county council carried out traffic surveys which showed drivers were speeding in the streets.

It then consulted residents itself - only about half as many replied, but most wanted the gate left where it was.

Now the area committee is polling residents for a third time to find out once and for all what should be done.

City councillor Bryan Keen presented a petition signed by 76 people earlier this year, after the county highways department recommended the gate stay put.

He said: "I just hope this time everyone who signed the petition sends the letter back. What has happened is the residents thought it was going to be moved and they suddenly find out the recommendation is not to move it."

Votes need to be returned by Friday, September 7. The area committee, which has pledged to pay for any work needed, will discuss the results in October.

The county council will make a final decision in November.