Independent safety review of Shifnal town centre enhancement work carried out
A £3.6m scheme to improve and enhance Shifnal town centre is nearing completion.
The work – being carried out by Shropshire Council and its contractor McPhillips – began on 6 September 2021. It will enhance the town’s existing infrastructure by improving – and in some areas reducing – traffic flow, and creating a more pedestrian-friendly area.
This week an independent safety review of the work was carried out after concerns were raised by the local councillor, and by Shifnal Town Council.
Richard Marshall, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for highways, said:
“Shropshire Council officers received a formal letter from Shifnal Town Council on the evening of Wednesday 23 November, although the local councillor had highlighted similar concerns prior to a Facebook post by the Town Council on Thursday 17th.
“As a result of the councillor’s email to officers, an independent Safety Review was instructed, and carried out on Monday 21 November. With regard to the zebra crossings and parking bays, the following points were raised and actions identified:
Zig-zag markings. The safety auditor noted the reduced number of zig-zag markings at each zebra crossing and recommended installing the standard eight markings (instead of the current two). The conditions on the day of the site visit were particularly poor and new pavement surfaces hold water which impacts on the visibility of markings. However, we will undertake a site review to determine the point that the zig-zag/zebra markings become visible and if necessary increase these to match the stopping distance at 20mph.
Notably, the appropriateness of zebra crossings, as opposed to signalised crossings, has not been raised.
No crossing studs at zebra crossings. Missing crossing “studs” need to be added. These will be painted road markings, not metal studs.
Echelon parking in parking bays. The safety auditor recommended additional signage to prevent echelon parking. At the time of the site visit not all signs had been installed as this has been subject to concluding the Traffic Regulation Order process. The Order is being progressed through the approval process and once the Order is “made” it can then be enforced. The final restricted zone signs are due for installation from today (Friday 25 November) in preparation for the Order coming in to force shortly.
“The Town Council – who were aware of and supported the scheme’s design, which included the new zebra crossings – has been issued with a full response. Copies of photographs evidencing the advance warning signs for the zebra crossing, which were part of the scheme scope, have also been provided along with a copy of the Safety Review report.
“Details of the formal Stage 3 Safety Audit, which will be carried out in mid-January, will also be shared with the Town Council.”
Follow this link for more information about the Shifnal town centre enhancement scheme.
