Cash put aside for a controversial crossing in Carlisle could be lost if a decision is not made in the coming months.

Funding which would go towards the new pedestrian crossing built on Castle Way is due to expire in February.

The money was set aside from a so-called section 106 agreement.

This was a condition on the planning permission for development of Sainsbury's in Caldewgate, with cash also allocated to other improvements there.

Carlisle City Council's development manager Chris Hardman said: "The deadline for spending the funding is in the middle of February next year.

"So that is something that is obviously, certainly pressing on members and officers minds as we work through this project in the final stages."

He was speaking at the authority's environment and economy overview and scrutiny panel meeting.

Councillor Mike Mitchelson wanted clarification his authority had done everything that was required with regards to planning permission.

Mr Hardman said they had - but that Cumbria County Council needed to give the go ahead for the works to be done on the road.

"Until we have that agreement in place we can't do the works," he said.

Planning permission for a toucan crossing was granted last month.

But a petition set up in opposition to the plans reached more than 1,500 signatures. It meant the issue is due to come under the spotlight again when the full council meets on November 8.

The city council's own 'scheme for submission of petitions' rules state that any petition containing more than 1,000 signatures must be debated by the full council.

Councillor John Paton said: "Surely with the petition that's come in nothing can be decided?"

Darren Crossley, deputy chief executive, explained: "Our requirement is to see this scheme through in relation to planning. So that's been undertaken.

"The county council is receiving a report recommending that all of the issues that were related to safety matters are adhered to.

"Essentially all permissions are in place to proceed.

"What's happened is the public, via a petition, have made their voice heard."

Brampton councillor Mike Mitchleson said: "My concern is from the public's point of view.

"They've raised a petition, they've submitted a petition.

"It would be a shame if they're just told: 'You are too late because everything is in process'."

Mr Crossley said it will be a matter debated at council.