Concerns have been raised over the consultation for a notorious rat-run that has long caused misery for residents on the outskirts of Ipswich.

Suffolk County Council has launched a consultation over Humber Doucy Lane, to the north-east of the town, after residents complained about the traffic levels.

Humber Doucy Lane is used as a rat-run when wider roads are shut, but the section between Playford Road and Rushmere Road is narrow and unsafe for pedestrians.

The county council is consulting residents about two proposals for the junction – one would see it closed altogether and one would see it closed to traffic turning into the road from Playford Lane.

But in a meeting attended by about 200 people last Tuesday, Rushmere Parish Council accused the authority of not engaging with the community over the plans.

Robert Whiting, chair of Rushmere St Andrew Parish Council, said: "Suffolk County Council has got to work with local residents and organisations to find long term solutions to traffic issues in this area, not just Humber Doucy Lane.

"Closing this road may be simpler for Suffolk County Council but is not the right solution for the community.

"I recognise that residents are understandably appalled about the lack of consultation and hope Suffolk County Council will engage more widely."

A spokesman for the county council said: "Suffolk County Council is currently seeking views on the proposed experimental closure.

"If the trial goes ahead, we will again consult with residents as part of this process, before making a final decision."

Debbie McCallum, county councillor for Kesgrave and Rushmere St Andrew, also attended last week's meeting to express her views on the matter.

She said: "Traffic is like a water tap – if you shut it off, it goes elsewhere.

"The feeling in the meeting was very strong, and you don't often get 200 people at a council meeting.

"I felt it was a positive meeting and a chance for residents to speak."