More than 100 neighbours are pushing for a new pedestrian crossing along one of the busiest roads in Reading.
A petition has recently been submitted asking Reading Borough Council to establish a crossing in Wokingham Road, with 180 people signing it.
Currently, pedestrians and bus passengers using the stop opposite Hamilton Road must cross either at Cemetery Junction or at traffic islands at St Bartholomews Road and Palmer Park.
The neighbours are calling for a new pedestrian crossing to make journeys on foot easier.
Alexa Coelias said: “We have a mixed population that includes young families and older residents who have lived in the area for many years.
“The 17 bus route in and out of town is very popular and is used by many local people.
“The stop opposite Hamilton Road is very convenient for local residents and their visitors.
“However, the increasing volume and speed of traffic on the Wokingham Road make it very daunting to cross at this point.
“Many of our older residents, those with disabilities and families with young children, find it extremely difficult to cross the road safely at the Hamilton Road bus stop.
“It may put many people off using the bus stop.”
A fellow resident, Brian Oatway, said: “I use the bus stop two to three times a week.
“Even 20 years ago, I can recollect there being difficulties crossing Wokingham Road, especially for those who are elderly or in any way disabled.
“If passengers have to wait several minutes before being able to cross the road safely after alighting from the bus, this becomes a big disincentive to use the bus.”
He finished by arguing a safer crossing is now”a necessity” due to increased traffic in the road.
Sympathising with the argument John Ennis (Labour, Southcote), lead councillor for transport, said: “I think we want to look at this with interest and take it forward, so I really thank you for bringing that to our attention, your efforts will not be wasted.
“Things take a bit of time, but I think we should be considering this with interest as soon as possible.”
Cllr Rob White (Green, Park), the leader of the opposition who represents the area, said: “Wokingham Road is a busy road.
“It is heavily congested at some times of day, and cars drive too fast at other times.
“Greens support the council investigating putting in a crossing here to help people get to the bus stop by Reading Old Cemetery.
“The council needs to make things easier for pedestrians across the town.”
The petition was submitted to the council’s traffic management sub-committee on June 11.
Council highways officers will now consider establishing a new crossing and report their findings to a future meeting.
