Calls for new pedestrian crossing in Cranham Drive, Warndon

Calls have gone out for a pedestrian crossing near the shops in Cranham Drive, Warndon, - with one councillor now putting in a formal job request.

Cllr Jill Desayrah is also concerned about the risks to groups of teenagers and school children crossing at that point - and the lack of any pedestrian crossings along the road.

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At the moment people can cross to the middle of the road where there is an island for them to stand featuring illuminated bollards and tactile paving.

However, some residents say when they cross to this halfway point in a mobility scooter, or with a pushchair, they end up sticking out into the road, making them feel vulnerable.

John Hughes, 80, of Sheepscombe Drive, who uses a mobility scooter is one of a number who has raised the issue - prompting Labour's Cllr Desayrah to formally request some type of crossing is put in.

John Hughes crosses Cranham Drive in Warndon (Image: James Connell/Newsquest)

Mr Hughes said: "I don't have enough room. There's not really even enough room to stand there.

"In my mobility scooter, I don't feel safe when I get to the middle. These cars come down this road like a bat out of hell."

Cllr Desayrah said she raised the issue with Worcestershire County Council in June.

This month she went one step futher and made a formal, written application for a crossing because she felt the council had now been aware of the issue 'for months' with action yet to be taken.

She said: "There aren't any crossings at all on the whole of Cranham Drive and I think it's inadequate.

"The fact the shops are here is one reason why people want to cross there so much - and there are two bus stops in close proximity.

"The island almost makes it worse as it invites people to stand in the middle of the road.

"That's an accident waiting to happen. Anyone with a pushchair or mobility scooter does not have room to be there. It's a prime crossing location - but not a very safe one. Parents with baby buggies and disabled people are taking their lives in their hands."

A spokesperson for Worcestershire County Council said: "We received a report on December 19 requesting a pedestrian crossing on Cranham Drive, this is currently being assessed.”