Sir, Should we wait for an accident before taking preventive action? This seems to be the stance of our city council, two city councillors, the road safety officer and some North Oxford schools.

I have written and/or spoken to them over the last two-and-a-half years drawing their attention to the dumping of bin bags in cycle lanes on the days when dustbins are emptied. In particular I have observed this practice at the out-of-town end of Woodstock Road. I have queried where the council's legal responsibility lies in the event of an accident. I have not received the courtesy of a reply.

I am particularly concerned for the children cycling to school who are obliged to dodge the obstructing bin bags. I fear this hazard in the cycle lane may lead to a preventable accident.

I understand that the bunching of a number of bin bags close to the kerb makes their collection quicker and more convenient for the collectors. However, the bags are often left for up to an hour before collection at the time when cyclists are going to school or work.

Is the safety of the cyclist not more important than the convenience of the refuse collectors?

Geraldine Rainbird, Oxford