And state member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan has taken on their cause.

If a fire broke out today residents of Banksia and Erica Roads would have only one option: to drive down Old Murray Road.

They’re worried that if Old Murray was blocked off for whatever reason, they would be trapped.

But outspoken locals Lyn and Robert Anstee, 65 and 66, said the council should extend Erica Road to join to Bendigo-Tennyson Road; providing residents with a second escape route.

“People would feel safer living here,” Mr Anstee said on

“I can’t see that it’s a big deal or would cost a lot of money.”

Ms Allan said fire safety was a great concern, particularly considering the hot, dry summer we were experiencing.

“It’s about making sure there’s peace and mind for the residents and that appropriate planning arrangements are put in place so communities are as fire safe as they can be,” she said.

 “There’s been a lot of fires around Bendigo.

"There was a fire in this area a couple of years ago that threatened the local poultry farm.

"I know a lot of work has gone on across the community to make sure people and agencies are well prepared.

"We need to continue that good work."

She said it was a growing area and it was important residents were safe. 

The Anstees said they had informally contacted the council with their request, but they and Ms Allan would be writing them a follow-up letter.

"As a community, we all have a role to play in ensuring we are as well prepared as we possibly can be," Ms Allan said.

The Anstees have lived in the area for 14 years.

Their house is located on Old Murray Road but backs onto Erica Road.

They said Erica Road used to run all the way to Bendigo-Tennyson Road, but it was closed off years ago.

They said would be very frightened if there was a fire in the area today, but would feel better if Erica Road was extending.

The City of Greater Bendigo was unavailable for comment.