Villagers call for safe road crossing across A688

People in Staindrop say they need a safe way to cross the A688 through the village, and if not a pedestrian crossing, then at least central reservation island.

Residents were asked for their views through a questionnaire during the carnival weekend in this summer.

A report of the survey, entitled The Cost Of Crossing, was considered by parish councillors at their latest meeting.

It found; “Crossing the A688 is a necessary part of everyday life in Staindrop, but for a substantial group of respondents it requires extra time, planning, caution or changes to normal activity.

“The present conditions impose practical, behavioural and emotional costs; those costs should form part of any future technical consideration of safer crossing provision.”

Some 78 people completed the survey, with only one saying a crossing would be a waste of money.

The others described being frustrated, anxious, scared and annoyed when trying to cross the road, particularly when accompanied by children or vulnerable people.

The report said: “Excessive vehicle speed is the strongest recurring theme, followed by long waits for a gap.

“Twelve responses describe a near-miss or collision risk.

“Other recurring themes include particular high-risk times and locations, driver behaviour, traffic volume, mobility difficulties, crossing with children and shortcomings in the crossing environment.”

Most of those who responded said they needed to cross the road to visit the shop or Post Office.

Other reasons giving for needing to cross were to catch a bus, visit Scarth Hall, attend church, visit the pub, going to school and to go to the play park.

The report said: “The pattern is clear.

“Crossing is connected with routine necessities and community participation.”

One resident submitted a written response to the council separate to the survey.

The report said: “The resident described regularly needing to cross the A688 with children, lengthy waits for a safe gap, concern for children, older people and those with mobility difficulties, and a loss of independence for a child considered too young to cross safely alone.

“The writer also argued that the absence of a high number of recorded accidents should not be taken as evidence that there is no real risk, referring to near-misses and residents’ daily concern.

“Central refuge islands were suggested as one possible way of enabling the road to be crossed safely in two stages.”