The Lower Road Campaign Group has collected 1,377 signatures for its petition to improve the Island’s main link to Leysdown. But it is appealing for more.

The campaign was set up in the spring after cyclist Helen Knell was struck by a car on the road.

The retired teacher from Minster, who chairs the group, said: “We are delighted with the response so far.

"It has been very successful. But we would like a few more names before we present the petition to the county council at Cowstead Corner on Thursday December 3 at 10am.”

The group wants the six-mile stretch of the A2500 widened to cope with the rising number of cars used by families on new housing estates and holiday traffic to the east of the Island.

Mrs Knell said: “There are two dangerously narrow stretches, one from Cowstead Corner to Barton Hill Drive, and one from Eastchurch to Leysdown.

“Neither is fit for purpose and both pose threats to cyclists and pedestrians who take their lives in their hands. The whole road is chaos.”

The group met three members of Minster Parish Council, borough councillor Andy Booth and KCC representative Cllr Angela Harrison last month.

Mrs Knell, 65, said: “We were heartened by the politicians’ support for our campaign. We intend to present the petition to KCC cabinet member for highways Matthew Balfour, and also intend to lobby for improvements by other means.

“We have been told that the Lower Road is too narrow to comply with A-road specifications, although KCC says Kent has similar A-roads.

“A good model is the A227 between the A2 and Istead Rise. It has adequate width with a separate cycle/pedestrian path but still maintains its rural identity.

The mother of two added: “We would love to work with MP Gordon Henderson on improving the road.

“The government is now legally required to set a strategy for improving cycling and walking facilities.

“David Cameron made a commitment to kick-start a cycling revolution. We would expect improvements to include a safe route for cyclists and pedestrians.”

To sign the petition, visit www.lowerroad.co.uk or call 07936 736141.