Tories Say 'No' to Safer Pavements

3.20.53pm GMT Tue 1st Nov 2005

At today's County Council meeting Liberal Democrat Councillors Bob Johnston and Jean Fooks moved a motion intended to improve road safety for pedestrians in general and for those using child buggies, wheelchairs and mobility buggies in particular.

They asked the Council to require highway inspectors on their normal rounds to assess the condition of pavements, both for width and state of repair. Local members and Town and Parish Councils would also be consulted, so that a programme of safety improvements could be drawn up. Those pavements most in need of repair should be tackled first.

It was accepted that this could only take place over a considerable period of time but the needs of the rural and urban pedestrians (37% of whom in rural areas have no access to a car) required a start to be made now. The motion was voted down because the Tories voted unanimously against it.

"We want pedestrians to be given the priority they deserve," said Bob Johnston. "It is a shame that the Tories do not agree."