Community leaders in Linwood are demanding action at a danger junction where “confusing” road markings have fuelled several crashes.

Fears are growing over the number of accidents at the crossroads connecting Bridge Street and Bridge of Weir Road.

Protestors gathered at the accident blackspot, known locally as ‘Dents Corner’, to voice their concerns.

They say many drivers are confused by a double white line that runs straight from Bridge of Weir Road to Bridge Street, with motorists often baffled about who has right of way.

Mary McElhinney, chair of Linwood Community Council, told The Gazette: “Someone was nearly killed there in February and I’m worried a fatal accident is what it’s going to take for the council to do something about it.”

Renfrewshire Council has said signage has been put in place at all four main approaches to make it clear who has priority.

There are also plans to introduce reflecting road studs, also known as ‘cat’s eyes.’

Residents say the junction – near the site of the old Dents & Johnstone factory which manufactured navigation instruments – has been a problem for years.

But concerns have been heightened recently due to more drivers using it as a ‘rat run’ and people travelling to the new Riverbrae School.

Roadworks at the junction have added to the problem.

Councillor Alison Dowling, who represents Linwood, said: “This work needs to be carried out as soon as possible. Pedestrians are being forced to walk on the road to avoid works on the pavement.

“Residents’ concerns focus on the increased traffic, confusing road markings and lack of traffic management. The fear is they will combine to trigger a tragedy if something is not done.”

However, a council spokesman said: “The priorities are clearly marked with a double white line along the centreline and, in January, advance signing was erected on all four approaches. Cat’s eyes in between the two white lines will also be installed.

“The last reported accident at this location was a serious injury collision between two vehicles in July 2013, where a driver failed to stop at the give way marking.”