The Highways Agency is being called on to speed up the decision to start vital safety work moving drainage dykes which run next to the A47 in Norfolk.
The dykes on Acle Straight, between Norwich and Great Yarmouth, have claimed several lives over the years after cars have sunk in deep water.
Last summer, the transport minister Rosie Winterton announced they would be moved back from the road's edge.
Safety campaigners are concerned that a wildlife study is delaying the scheme.
The Highways Agency said it needs to carry out a wildlife survey of the dykes - which will not be finished until October - before starting work.
If newts, otters, voles or rare snails are found, the dykes may have to stay where they are.
The A47 Alliance, which is made up of local councils, business leaders and the RAC, said the six-month survey is unnecessary and that road-users need protecting now.
Adrian Gunson, chairman of the Alliance and cabinet member for transportation on Norfolk County Council, said it was important to press ahead with Acle Straight dyke relocation trials as soon as possible.
"While this road remains single carriageway, these water-filled roadside dykes remain a dreadful additional hazard to travellers.," he said.
"Looking after the natural environment is important, but we don't need a six-month survey to tell us that people need protecting now.
"These are manmade dykes and it should be borne in mind that environmental considerations do not prevent many of them being regularly cleared with diggers. It should be possible to come up with a solution that protects people and wildlife."
^ Back to top | BBC Sport Home | BBC Homepage | Contact us | Help | ©
~RS~q~RS~~RS~z~RS~40~RS~)