'Unsightly' crossing causes a stir (From Richmond and Twickenham Times)

'Unsightly' crossing causes a stir

9:10am Friday 4th July 2008

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A new road crossing is causing a bit of a stir among residents who feel it creates added and unwanted light pollution.

The controversy comes from the newly-built island in Richmond Road, St Margarets, outside St Stephen's Church.

Resident Susan Ring believes it is not only unsafe but also unsightly.

Mrs Ring fought against its installation but felt that, if built, it should be sympathetic to the conservation area and the setting of all the listed buildings.

She said: "Increased street furniture, lighting and large concrete bollards degrade the attractive street. It must be possible to design a pedestrian refuge which is both a safe and sympathetic design.

"It is extremely unfortunate that consultation did not take place. If they had you can be certain we would have pointed out the obvious faults and flaws such as the huge lamp post already above the refuge to illuminate it."

Defending the decision to build the crossing island Richmond Council's cabinet member for traffic, transport and parking Councillor David Trigg said: "There is a requirement to have adequate signage for safety reasons, to ensure maximum visibility. The requirements for the signs are national design standards.

"Therefore, the signs and lighting must stay."

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