Romford Councillor Calls On Council To Install Pedestrian Crossing After A Series Of Near Misses Between Residents And Buses.

Councillor David Taylor has requested that Havering Council install a new pedestrian crossing, following fears of near misses between residents and busses. 

The corner of Western Road and South Street, by the Crowning Angel, forms a part of the busy pedestrian route between Romford town centre and the station. At present, a crossing is marked only by a dropped kerb and tactile paving for the visually impaired. Councillor Taylor has requested that Havering Council look at upgrading this crossing to a zebra crossing, following queries by concerned residents. 

Guidance from the Department For Transport’s “Guidance on the use of tactile paving surfaces” specifically warns against installing tactile paving at uncontrolled crossing points. 

Councillor Taylor raised the idea on social media and rapidly received indications of support from over 100 residents, some who said that they had witnessed near misses with buses. With buses switching to EV and the junction also obstructed by advertising and trees, Taylor believes it is time for an upgrade. 

Councillor Taylor said; 

“This junction is an accident waiting to happen. The tactile paving specifically encourages visually impaired residents to cross here, and yet there is no way for them to tell if the traffic has stopped. They gave a false sense of security With busses now running silent as EVs this is dangerous. 

The crossing is a busy route for people heading to and from the station, as well as to the bars and restaurants along South Street. 

I have asked the council’s team to look at proposals for making this junction safer, especially as they seem to be on a bit of a mission to install new zebra crossings across our town. 

If we can make walking safer, especially for those with visual impairments, then we will make Romford a more attractive place to be. 

I hope the council will agree with my request”. 

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