Members of Kirton community are celebrating a victory in their campaign to upgrade a ‘dangerous’ zebra crossing after the county council decided to back the scheme – to the tune of £80,000.
A signal-controlled puffin crossing will be installed in the High Street this summer which it is hoped will cut the number of motorists failing to stop for pedestrians there.
“I’m absolutely delighted,” said parish and borough councillor Alan Lee, who has campaigned for improved safety measures at the road for a number of years.
“We have campaigned hard for this so it is a huge success for us.”
The appeal was renewed in November last year when a 10-year-old child was knocked down on the crossing while walking to school. She escaped serious injury but was left bruised and shaken.
Coun Lee said there have also been a number of ‘near misses’ on the crossing.
The child’s parents set up a Facebook group calling for support to the campaign, and a petition which gained the backing of borough and county councillors.
Supporters say the current crossing is dangerous as it is located near to two junctions on a ‘blind bend’ – with many drivers failing to stop.
Coun William Webb, executive member for highways and transportation, said: “I am delighted to confirm we will replace the zebra crossing in Kirton and build a new puffin crossing. We’ve listened to local residents, taken on board their concerns about safety and responded accordingly. I think it’s great that the community has come together like this and I’m proud to be able to say that we’ve provided a solution that pleases everyone.”
Coun Lee offered thanks to Coun Michael Brookes, area highways manager Andy Wharf, and the parents of the child behind the petition and Facebook campaign.
Comments