AN investigation has been launched into safety improvements on country lanes in Ringwood following a hit-and-run that left an elderly man in a critical condition.

At a meeting on Wednesday night Ringwood Town Council said it would investigate ways to make two busy country lanes in the area safer for residents.

The move was a result of a hit-and-run in Cowpitts Lane on Sunday evening, which left an 87-year-old man in a critical condition.

The victim is still in hospital being treated for his head and arm injuries.

It has prompted calls for a 20mph speed limit along that stretch of road – but Ringwood Town Council has gone one step further and launched an investigation into the safety of both Cowpitts Lane and Linford Road.

Town council chairman Michael Thierry said it was important for the council to be proactive when it came to the safety of its residents.

He added: “Both of the lanes highlighted act as feeder roads to the A31 and are used frequently by commuters.

“The council’s planning and transport committee will be looking at ways we can improve safety on those particular lanes.”

Some of the ideas suggested include road markings and better signage to warn drivers that there are no footpaths.

Cllr Thierry also said that they would look into reducing the speed limit, but questioned how it would be enforced.

“Like with all these things there is always a problem of enforcement,” he added.

“You have to ask the question of how a 20mph speed limit would be enforced on two country lanes.”

Following its investigation the council will present its findings to Hampshire County Council, which is the authority responsible for highways decisions.