Step closer for safe crossing on dangerous Sheffield road

Campaigners have welcomed a step forward in their push for a safe crossing on a dangerous road.
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Councillor Barbara Masters representative for Ecclesall ward, said she was delighted that a long-awaited feasibility study to improve pedestrian safety on Abbey Lane was finally approved.

She said: “I am sure I speak for many road users when I say this has come as a huge relief. I have been pressing for action on the political level as a local councillor…

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“Cllr Julie Grocutt, when cabinet member for transport, committed the previous administration to look at accessibility improvements in the Abbey Lane area and to look at a change to the speed limit. I was concerned that this would be shelved following the May elections and I have ensured that the matter stayed on the agenda since then.

Barbara Masters outside Ecclesall Woods.Barbara Masters outside Ecclesall Woods.
Barbara Masters outside Ecclesall Woods.

“I hope that the feasibility study and the work that stems from it will make it easier to allow suitable measures to be implemented elsewhere. The re-introduction of Local Area Committees (LACs) should allow such decisions to be made locally if the LACs receive proper funding.

“It’s going to be a lengthy process but very welcome and I look forward to seeing what the feasibility study will recommend and what will be implemented.”

The study will look at several options for the road which cuts through Ecclesall Woods and consider alternations to the junction priorities at Abbey Lane with Whirlowdale Road.

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Coun Masters has worked with the community to push Sheffield Council for a safe crossing for more than a year.

Campaigners on Abbey Lane, Sheffield.Campaigners on Abbey Lane, Sheffield.
Campaigners on Abbey Lane, Sheffield.

A petition was launched by the Friends of Ecclesall Woods earlier this year that gathered nearly 6,000 signatures.

Those who signed the petition commented that it is frightening crossing the road and measures would significantly improve, and may even save, people’s lives.

Coun Masters said: “I wish to pay tribute to the Friends of Ecclesall Woods group who did such a great job of proving there was community backing for this with their petition and for taking up my suggestion asking people to post comments on the Sheffield City Region Active Travel Map. This identified four locations where people tend to cross.”