City residents are joining a group of cross-party councillors, local campaigners and their MP Steve Brine in celebrating news that new crossings are to be installed on St Cross Road.
Following a meeting organised by Steve, and including local residents, Cllr Brian Collin and Hampshire County Council chiefs on Friday 27th January, it was confirmed that HCC have committed to installing a formal pedestrian crossing at the junction of St Cross Road and lower Stanmore Lane.
Reporting back to local residents, the campaign organiser, said: "The council's highway engineers are still finalising the design for the crossing but as a minimum it will include two crossings across St Cross Road both to the North and South of the junction. I still believe there is a strong case for a further 'arm' of the crossing across the bottom of Stanmore Lane and hope that funding can be identified for this additional work.
"Cllr Thornber [leader of HCC] instructed his highway officials to explore every possible avenue in order to ensure this 'third arm' can be included in the scheme.
"The Council is planning to carry out the work during the Summer holiday this year so as to cause a minimum of disruption to both the school and to motorists."
Steve Brine said: "This has been a huge community effort and it's been a real pleasure for me to help drive it over the line. There are a few loose ends to tie up but the meeting with Ken Thornber was critical. We're almost there now and about time too."
Cllr Brian Collin commented: "I am delighted to have been able to play my part in getting a good solution for this important route for pedestrians. I was able to get so far by giving priority to this junction, but the efforts of the community and MP in persuading the Leader of the Council have been crucial."
Cllr Robert Sanders said: "This is fantastic news, and a tribute to so much hard work by so many across our community. As Steve says, there are a few loose ends remaining, but I am delighted such a breakthrough has been made."
