How did the pedestrian cross the road? The good, the bad and the reasons why pedestrian crossings are important

Bristol City Council is consulting on the city’s transport strategy for the next 18 years, against a backdrop of cuts to school crossing patrols and pedestrian crossings in local neighbourhoods. At the same time, there have been major changes to roads and transport infrastructure, making it more challenging to navigate the city on foot.

An event on Tuesday 16 October, 6.45-8.30pm at the Watershed, Harbourside offers an opportunity to share ideas and opinions about the best ways to ensure people in Bristol can cross the road safely and conveniently.

Bristol residents are invited to this free event, where a range of speakers will focus on the importance of good quality pedestrian crossings. There will also be plenty of opportunity to ask questions and give opinions about specific road crossings – those that work well, and those where there are problems.

PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS: THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE RATIONALE

The event is hosted by Bristol Health Partners and Bristol Walking Alliance. Dr Suzanne Audrey, Senior Research Fellow at the University of Bristol, will be chairing the event and is keen for people to get in touch with examples of good and bad road crossings. She said:

“Bristol has a range of pedestrian crossings and other urban design features to help people cross roads. Some of them seem to work well, but others can be difficult, even dangerous. One photograph I received shows a message from someone seriously injured when crossing the road.

“Even without a history of accidents, streets with no suitable places to cross can be a significant barrier in communities. It should be easy for people of all ages and abilities to find a safe place to cross in any street.

“With the Bristol Transport Strategy consultation in full flow, we need to remind people that walking is the most accessible form of transport there is.”

Zebras, Pelicans, Puffins and Toucans will all be on the agenda. Max Thorley, Traffic Signals & Urban Transport Management and Control Manager will explain various light controlled crossings and some issues for Bristol City Council in trying to balance the interests of pedestrians, car drivers and other road users as well as the financial constraints. Jess Read, Principal Engineer at Witteveen + Bos UK, will consider other design features that are intended to help pedestrians cross the road. Other speakers will represent the views of younger, older and disabled people.

FREE tickets can be booked through Eventbrite.