Villagers demand action

Almost 90 per cent of Westburn residents are very concerned about speeding motorists, as a new report reveals locals are “playing dodgems” with traffic.

The Westburn Residents’ Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Report shows the vast majority of people, 97 per cent, are particularly worried about traffic on Westburn Road.

Compiled using feedback from a household and online survey, the safety report states 194 people are worried about the speed of traffic during times when children are going to and from school.

Residents’ fears about road safety saw 73 per cent, 156 people, state they were very concerned with the placement of a pedestrian crossing on Westburn Road.

The results of the survey, completed by 219 people, add further weight to the campaign for a safe crossing at Westburn Road, launched by Westburn Youth Project early last year.

The survey also saw people record their views about the need for a safe crossing.

One local said: “I have three kids and need to cross a very busy road to go to the park, shop and community hall. It would be safer for pedestrians to use the crossing rather than play dodgems with the traffic.”

A second resident said: “It can take a while to get a break in traffic to cross safely and it’s not just traffic on the main road you have to be aware of as there are two roads entering the main road right at the shop. If a bus is sitting at the bus stop at that time then it’s even more hazardous.”

It was not just concern for children that saw residents call for a pedestrian crossing. One respondent to the survey said: “I see a man every morning struggle with a walking aid, trying to get across the main road. It really concerns me that someone will not have time to slow down and he will get hurt.”