Cars driving around new bollards in Gertrude Road in Norwich

But a new twist in the saga has proved the locals’ battle is far from over.  

Drivers are now swerving the bollard at the bottom of Gertrude Road in Costessey and mounting the grassy verge to continue using it as a cut through.

The bollard have been replaced at the bottom of Gertrude Road (Image: Newsquest)

In a blow to those living nearby, the council cut the overgrown verge at their request - which has made it easier for rule-breaking motorists to dodge the bollard.

Gertrude Road local Sylvie Ellis, 78, is at the end of her tether.

She said: "Drivers are ignoring the bollards and just driving over the curb next to them.

"It is good that the council cut back the grass, which was dangerously tall, but these rat runners seem to think they have just cleared the way for them.

"I watched a huge truck drive over it at the weekend. They took no notice of the signs or the bollards that mark that it is a dead end.

"It's taking the mick."

Sylvie Ellis (right) can't believe what is happening (Image: Newsquest)

Sylvie had joined her neighbours in campaigning for the bollard to be replaced after it was mysteriously removed several years ago.

At the time concerns were raised about the safety of the path as drivers used it as a shortcut from Mousehold Avenue.

People living nearby also wanted the overgrown verges cut as they said it was preventing drivers from seeing if walkers were on the path, which is regularly used by children and parents to get to a nearby park.

Drivers have been cutting over the pavement and grass to the side of the new bollards (Image: Newsquest)

Although the council has done as they requested the issue remains.

Sylvie added: "There are solid bollards on the other side of the road, which I guess might stop it for good."

"I can't believe it is still happening."