Crossing blasted
PEDESTRIANS on a zebra crossing on one of Oban’s busiest roads have claimed it is too dangerous to use following a number of near misses.
AN OBAN resident is calling for the removal of a zebra crossing following concerns that correct procedures were not followed during its installation.
The crossing has been at the centre of a number of near misses in recent months.
By its own admission, Argyll and Bute Council said it could ‘not locate any recorded information’ in regard to the crossing on Soroba Road, near to Lidl.
In a statement, the council, said: ‘The council officer who liaised with Lidl prior to the installation of this crossing has retired and we are unable to locate any recorded information within our records which confirms that an assessment was carried out.’
A legal requirement to fit a skid-resistant surface on the approaches to the crossing has not been carried out, giving drivers less traction if they need to come to an abrupt stop and making it more likely cars will slide onto the crossing. The concerned member of public, who asked not to be named, said he can find no evidence that police were advised of the crossing or that public notices were displayed, which, he says, flouts the current rules.
He explained: ‘The issues are a bit complex but do need to be addressed and, in my opinion, made public. Should I not do anything and other incidents occur, I would be really upset.
‘There would appear to be failures to comply with Road Traffic Regulation Acts, so it is a serious matter.
‘The future of the crossing, in my view, is uncertain. It should be removed and proper procedure undertaken.
‘Having examined all available planning documents, I have come to the conclusion that Argyll and Bute Council granted unconditional planning permission to the applicant for the establishment of a zebra crossing adjacent to the supermarket, which it didn’t have the right to do.’
An Argyll and Bute Council spokesperson said: ‘The developer was informed of the need to apply for a permit under section 56 of the Roads (Scotland) Act 1984 prior to working within the road corridor.
‘The requirement to consult with the public and the police lies with the developer.’
Lidl were unable to comment at the time of going to press.
Should I not do anything and other incidents occur, I would be really upset”