Colchester: Berechurch Hall Road toucan crossing installed

A toucan crossing has now been set up in Berechurch Hall Road Colchester after Essex Highways first confirmed works would start in May.

Residents living on the Persimmon Homes owned development, St Michael’s Place, had previously highlighted the need for a crossing.

Without a crossing, it was feared those with disabilities would not be able to safely travel over the road, nor children who attend the nearby school.

Planning bosses agreed a toucan crossing was be needed in 2023, but the project was hampered by delays and setbacks.

Road - Councillors Claire Osborne and Dave Harris at Berechurch Hall Road prior to the crossing being installed (Image: Councillor Dave Harris)

Councillor Dave Harris said he was originally promised the crossing would be installed during the summer holidays last year, but it was delayed.

While housebuilder Persimmon Homes said at the time it was waiting on a response from Essex Highways

When works finally got underway there were overnight closures from July 15 to July 19, so workers could resurface and reline the road.

To help manage traffic flow between Camulodunum Way and Berechurch Hall Road, temporary multi-way traffic lights were set up in the area.

With the toucan crossing finally in place, Shrub End Ward Councillors Sam McCarthy and Mick Spindler are pleased to see it up and running.

Before - another image of how the road used to look like (Image: Google Maps)

Mr McCarthy said: "With the developments almost complete, we welcome finally now having the toucan crossing in place.

“It will make crossing this busy road so much safer and especially, for children attending the nearby St Michael's School.

“We recognise the disruption works have caused during the summer period however this important safety measure will be welcome road.”

Mr Spindler added: "We are delighted that the crossing has been completed in time for the start of the new school term and anticipate it will be well used by pedestrians of all ages.

“The ongoing work on the shared footway/cycle way along Camulodunum Way which leads up to the school is also good news for both pedestrians and cyclists.

“Safety is important to us, and we will continue to campaign for improvements where needed and wanted throughout Shrub End."