A COMMUNITY campaign for a safer road crossing in Cranbrook Road has seen victory after eight years.
It began in 2016 after two children in a year were hit by cars. Hundreds of people signed a petition calling for a zebra crossing but although councillors were sympathetic the project was beset by delays.
Redland ward councillors Martin Fodor and Fi Hance told the Voice that even after funding for a crossing island on the school route from Cairns Road to Harcourt Hill was agreed, the scheme was held up by staff shortages, a backlog of projects, the pandemic and rising costs.
“The delays and frustrations should now be in the past however. We’re finally able to see the local funds we got allocated several years ago being spent. We’re delighted for residents,” they said.
Work is under way on the the improvements, which include a cycle lane.
Clare Freshwater-Turner, who started the campaign, said she was delighted.
“I have been stopped by many to say how happy they are that this work has finally been done. I saw a school child skip across the island smiling- it is just so great to see.
“It will benefit not only pedestrians but will also make it safer for cyclists and drivers pulling out from side roads.
“The local councillors Martin Fodor and Fi Hance and all of the local community have been amazing. It has been a great collaborative approach and we are all over the moon this has finally come to fruition.”