New crossing opens in Shrewsbury

Children and their parents can now enjoy a safer route to school following the recent installation of a Toucan crossing, mini roundabout and new, slower speed limit on the A488 Radbrook Road/ Hanwood Road in Shrewsbury.

Construction work was completed at the end of September 2011 and the scheme will be officially opened by Radbrook’s local Shropshire councillor Keith Roberts on Wednesday 19 October 2011.

The Toucan crossing provides a signalised crossing facility for the use of both pedestrians and cyclists.  It links to well-used walking and cycling routes between residential areas, schools, Radbrook Green, Shelton Hospital and the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital.

Keith Roberts, Shropshire Councilor for Radbrook, said:

“I am very pleased to have this Toucan crossing facility in this location, and the lower speed limit.  It should make it a safer area for pedestrians and motorists.”

Simon Jones, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member with responsibility for transport, said:

“I welcome the introduction of a safer crossing and lower speed limit.  Facilities like this help to make Shrewsbury a more attractive and safer place for everyday journeys by foot and by bike.”

Funding for the scheme came from the council’s Cycle Shrewsbury grant and the Local Sustainable Transport Fund, both from the Department for Transport.  Also, from Shropshire Council’s Safer Routes to School budget.

This opening is one of a number of events taking place during ‘Love Your Bike’ month in October 2011.  Love Your Bike month is organised by Cycle Shrewsbury, Shropshire Council’s campaign to get more people cycling on their regular local journeys.  This year’s Love Your Bike month sees the start of new initiatives to get more people cycling in Oswestry and Ludlow, as well as a programme of events in Shrewsbury. 

All the details of Love Your Bike month events can be found by clicking here or by calling 01743 255435.