Further to minute 315 (Cabinet – 4/2/210) when this location was approved within the programme for pedestrian crossings, the Director of Technical Services reported concerning an objection received from the resident of 6 Teehey Lane, Bebington to the introduction of a pedestrian refuge island on Teehey Lane between Bracken Lane and Gorseyville Road, Bebington.

The objector was concerned that as the junction of Brackenwood Road / Teehey Lane / Gorseyville Road was ‘staggered’ in nature, both drivers and cyclists already have to constantly check traffic from many directions with the proximity of the bend, speed of approaching traffic and adjacent access to the Bebington Care Home adding to their difficulties.  He felt that the added complication of a pedestrian island requiring extra vigilance from drivers emerging from Brackenwood Road and Gorseyville Road could potentially put pedestrians in more danger.

The Director reported that the provision of a pedestrian refuge would allow pedestrians to cross in two movements, simplifying the crossing manoeuvre and enabling them to concentrate on vehicles approaching from one direction at a time, and would prove to be of particular benefit for children, the elderly and persons with disabilities.  The proposed position of the pedestrian refuge island was such that it would be clearly visible to drivers emerging from Brackenwood Road and Gorseyville Road.

The objector was also concerned that vehicles parking on Teehey Lane adjacent to the Bebington Care Home would create difficulties for traffic negotiating the proposed pedestrian refuge island.  He drew attention to extensive parking around the bend to the south of the junction and on the adjacent verge/footpath when open public events are held at the Care Home

The Director referred to numerous site observations indicating that that there were no problems with parking on Teehey Lane associated with the Bebington Care Home.  Any instances of inappropriate, illegal or dangerous parking observed in the vicinity of the bend would be referred to the Police for appropriate action. The impact of the scheme on general traffic conditions would be carefully monitored and appropriate action taken should future site conditions change.

The Panel received an email representation which was circulated in advance of the meeting.  A ward councillor had also made representations on behalf of the resident of no.6 Teehey Lane and asked that the objections and concerns expressed by the resident are given full and due consideration.

Resolved – That the Panel note the objector’s concerns, but recommend to the Sustainable Communities Overview & Scrutiny Committee that the pedestrian refuge scheme and ‘No Waiting At Any Time’ Traffic Regulation Order be implemented as advertised.