“An accident waiting to happen” said one resident reporting their concerns to me regarding the pedestrian crossing point in Rose Street between Waitrose and Peach Place. The location of the pedestrian island in this part of Rose Street is dangerous because the width restriction tempts drivers to swerve to avoid the narrow part of the road, instead driving into the wrong side of the road and catching pedestrians unawares. The increased footfall due to the new Peach Place development has exacerbated safety concerns that clearly should have been anticipated. 

I have repeatedly called for action from the Council and can confirm that there are new layout designs being worked up, complemented by site surveys due some time in February. I have called for temporary safety measures and as a result, additional police enforcement has been requested. 

We need a Pedestrians First approach to this crossing. In the meantime, I urge all residents to take extra care when crossing from Waitrose to Peach Place and make sure you look both ways every time. 

I have been impressed with my colleague Cllr Nick Fox’s concerted efforts to install pedestrian crossing points at other locations, in Wiltshire Road and Rectory Road, and will work with him to continue to push the Council for this to be resolved.