HOUSEHOLDERS in a residential street today warned of a tragedy waiting to happen after two drivers were injured in a road smash.They warned that motorists were using Springfield Lane, Ipswich, and other nearby roads as rat-runs – and were ignoring the 30mph speed limit.

HOUSEHOLDERS in a residential street today warned of a tragedy waiting to happen after two drivers were injured in a road smash.

They warned that motorists were using Springfield Lane, Ipswich, and other nearby roads as rat-runs – and were ignoring the 30mph speed limit.

Their warnings came after an accident closed the road for more than an hour this morning.

The two drivers were both taken to Ipswich Hospital with whiplash injuries, but neither are thought to be seriously injured.

A Renault Clio being driven by Emma Craggs was in collision with a Ford Escort GTI 16 valve at the junction of Brookfield Road and Springfield Lane.

"Emma is always very careful about driving around here because there are lots of children and pets – we never go more than about 20mph," said Miss Craggs' partner, Marcus Watts, who live together in Brookfield Road.

"I'm going to hospital to see how she is, but I don't think she's too bad – things could have been a lot worse."

The side streets are often used by vehicles trying to avoid busier roads – and Bramford Lane which has road-calming humps.

"Most cars do go at a sensible speed, but we do get some people speeding," said one resident.

As well as local residents, the side roads in the area are also used by parents walking their children to and from the nearby Springfield Infant and Junior schools.

Local county councillor Bob Tostevin said he was aware of problems there and would be discussing residents' concerns with highway officials.

And local borough councillor, John Cooper, said he would visit the road and speak to Ipswich council chief engineer, Pat Ryan, to see if any action could be taken.