Newcastle Labour is delivering a safer pedestrian crossing on West Road near St Cuthbert’s High School as part of a £3.65 million road-safety programme.
The crossing forms part of a £3.65 million programme funded through the Government’s Safer Roads Fund. The A186 was identified as a priority by the Department for Transport and the Road Safety Foundation because of the need to reduce the risk of fatal and serious collisions.
For pupils, families and residents, a safer place to cross this busy route should improve everyday journeys to school and around the neighbourhood. The wider programme will also introduce new or upgraded crossings and safer junction arrangements at other points along the A186.
We will keep residents informed as detailed arrangements and the timetable for the West Road work are confirmed.
The A186 was identified for targeted action because of the risk of fatal and serious collisions. By turning that evidence into a funded crossing scheme, the council is responding to a concern repeatedly raised by pupils, families and residents using this busy route.
Labour will press for the design and construction to prioritise pedestrians, accessibility and safe journeys to school while minimising disruption. The wider programme should also improve crossings and junctions along other sections of the A186.
Cllr Juna Sathian, Labour Cabinet Member for Climate and Transport said:
“A safer crossing near St Cuthbert’s High School will make a real difference to pupils, families and everyone who walks along West Road. Residents have consistently told us that road safety is a priority, and this targeted investment turns that priority into action.”