MP causes controversy over crossing campaign (From Chelmsford Weekly News)

MP causes controversy over crossing campaign

7:20am Thursday 16th February 2012 in News

CHELMSFORD’S MP has stunned road safety campaigners by suggesting plans for a new zebra crossing should be given a rethink.

It is now hoped that nearly seven years hard work will not be scuppered following Simon Burns’ intervention.

In 2005 Jessica Smith was hit by a car at the junction of Plane Tree Close and Linnet Drive in Chelmsford. Since then, parents, residents and councillors have been campaigning to make the spot where many school children cross safer.

They were delighted when they found out their efforts had paid off and a zebra crossing would be installed this month.

But when suggestions about the siting of the crossing were made public and a consultation period began, Essex County Council received a petition with 35 signatures, representing around 20 households, against the planned pedestrian crossing.

In a statement released on Monday Mr Burns said: “It seems extraordinary to me the county council is prepared to spend money on a pedestrian crossing in Linnet Drive that local residents are desperately opposed to when money is tight.

“I think the Liberal Democrats should explain to my constituents why they are making claims about their involvement in this project, which seems at variants with my constituent’s views of the situation.

“It seems to me sensible for the county council to either abandon its current unwanted proposals or to engage with local residents to see if a more suitable siting of a pedestrian crossing could be found.”

However, a Facebook group set up by mum-of-two Clare Hoyle, now has 140 members, showing residents are in favour of the crossing.

She said: “It’s just a death trap. It seems locals are happy for it to go ahead but they don’t want it outside their houses.”

Councillors Linda Mascot and Freda Mountain represent Goat Hall, which covers Linnet Drive.

Mum-of-six Mrs Mascot lives in nearby Robin Way and has used the “extremely busy” junction for the last 20 years with her children.

She said she has witnessed a number of near misses in that time and is “incredulous” to Mr Burns’ remarks.

“This is an example of politics over community and someone giving a quote when they know nothing about the situation,” she said.

“I just think safety of the children is of paramount importance, there are hundreds of them that cross there in the mornings and afternoon.

“People want a crossing and I hope common sense prevails.”

Liberal Democrat county and borough councillor Jude Deakin, added: “I’m absolutely gobsmacked. What price do you put on a child’s life if it’s not worth the money?”

The crossing also has support from Mildmay Infant and Junior Schools, Moulsham High School, churches and youth organisations.