A dangerous bend which has been the focus of a campaign for nine years will at last become safe for pedestrians after Southend company Keymed agreed to install a crossing.
Victory - Betty Becker, Violet Melhuish and Keymed's Michael Woodford at the site of the crossing Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL
The scientific instruments firm in Stock Road, Southend, will pay around £50,000 to pay for a puffin crossing and speed cushions across Frobisher Way, in Shoebury.
Group managing director, Michael Woodford MBE, who is already a freeman of the borough for services to the community, said: "It seemed a genuine need. It seems cliched and tired but the company believes we should put something back into the community."
Betty Becker, 91, has been campaigning for a crossing for nine years, claiming it was almost impossible for her friends from Great Mead retirement flats, in Frobisher Way, to cross to Asda and neighbouring shops.
Shoebury councillors Allan Cole and Patricia Rayner joined the cause two years ago, with chief supt Mick Thwaites from Southend Police.
They contacted Keymed, which was happy to cover the cost.
Ms Rayner explained she was also worried about children crossing from nearby Shoebury High School, in Caulfield Road, Richmond Street Primary School, and St George's Catholic School, in Eagle Way.
Published Friday January 30, 2004
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