Call to increase pedestrian crossing times

Philip writes:

In recent months I have had correspondence with our MP and others over some of the local pedestrian crossing times- I am delighted to see there is now a national campaign on this issue. You can email your MP from here: http://www.livingstreets.org.uk/make-a-change/urgent-actions/smarter-crossings/give-us-time-to-cross

Here is part of my letter to our MP, parish Councils and Glos County Council:

You maybe aware there is a new national campaign launched by Living Streets regarding pedestrian crossing times. Researchers at UCL have found that three quarters of people over the age of 65 walk much slower than the assumed 'green man time' of 1.2m/s at crossings - indeed it is 0.8m/s for women and 0.9m/s for men. Clearly it is not just older people who can struggle; for many parents with buggies and small children it can also be a challenge. Average figures for walking speed of 8-11-year-olds when accompanied by adults is also around 0.9m/s.

Pic by Russ

I write asking that you seek a review of these crossing times by writing in support to transport secretary, Patrick McLoughlin. I also would urge Gloucestershire to take a lead in increasing crossing times. I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely, Cllr Philip Booth, Stroud District councillor for Randwick, Whiteshill and Ruscombe ward