Action is to be taken to upgrade what is described as a dangerous pedestrian crossing on a busy main road in Ellesmere Port.

The issue was raised in a question to the borough council by Whitby ward councillor Karen Shore (Lab).

Cllr Shore told infrastructure chief Cllr Brian Clarke (Lab): “The crossing in Whitby village has become a danger to pedestrians due to traffic congestion, parking issues and visibility.

“Recently another serious accident occurred and a woman was hospitalised after being knocked down on the crossing.”

Cllr Shore emphasised: “There have been several ‘near misses’ and I am concerned that a fatality will occur.”

Crossing now a priority location

She explained that with her colleague, Whitby ward councillor Brian Jones (Lab), she was working with the council’s localities team ‘to explore what we can do to make the crossing safer’.

Cllr Shore continued: “However what assurances can cabinet give to residents of Whitby that their safety is paramount and that they will do all that is reasonable to address this problem and make the crossing safer?”

Cllr Clarke replied: “I was sorry to hear about the incident described by Cllr Shore and can confirm that pedestrian safety is something that the council take seriously.

“I am pleased to confirm that the existing zebra crossing facility in Whitby village, between the mini roundabout at Morrisons and Pooltown Road junction, has been identified as a priority location to be subject to an upgrade in order to further enhance pedestrian safety in this area.

“The area highways and Ellesmere Port locality teams have been in discussions and it is proposed that the zebra crossing facility be upgraded in early 2016.”

Crossing will be similar to others in area

The zebra crossing, he said, will become a ‘daybright’ model, similar to one recently installed on Overpool Road near Mill Lane.

Cllr Clarke added: “Officers from highways and localities will be in contact with the local ward members - Cllr Shore and Cllr Jones - to discuss how the project is taken forward and to keep them fully informed of progress.”