A range of measures to improve road safety have been given the green light.

The initiatives, to be carried out in Pitsea and Bowers Gifford, were announced by the council's Area Committee for East Basildon.

It is hoped that they will reduce the speed of vehicles on High Road and London Road, making them safer for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists alike.

Committee chairman, councillor David Abrahall (Ind Lab,Vange) said: "These improvements will make this busy road so much more user-friendly for pedestrians and cyclists, giving them a safer route away from heavy traffic."

The work, funded by Essex County Council and English Partnerships, is due to start next month and will see:

A signalled pedestrian crossing at St Margaret's School near the pedestrian entrance on the Pitsea side of the school - a crossing patrol will be retained to help unaccompanied children cross the road.

Parking bays installed along London Road between Rectory Road and Fairleigh Road within the existing wide carriageway.

Widening of the footpath in London Road near St Margaret's School and creation of a separate cycle path where practical.

Traffic signals for pedestrians and cyclists at the junction of Pound Lane and London Road.

Published Tuesday October 15, 2002

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