Summary: The Barton Road (A603), Newnham, Cambridge pedestrian crossing located between Grange Road and King's Road (see photo) is very dangerous and needs reconfiguring to make it safer.

This is a petition to ask Cambridgeshire County Council (the 'party' responsible for highways) to address this situation urgently before there is a serious - or perhaps a fatal - accident here.

The problem: I take my toddler across Barton Road using this pedestrian crossing twice a day every weekday and almost every other time that I use it a dangerous situation occurs - mostly as a result of cars turning right onto Barton Road from Grange Road 'jumping' the red light of the crossing.  We have experienced many near misses.

This is a predominantly residential area with many schools and nurseries on both sides of Barton Road.  The crossing is frequently used by children.

What might be causing the problem: The above likely occurs due to a combination of; a) it being difficult to see the Barton Road pedestrian crossing traffic lights from Grange Road - made worse by the confusing 'Stop' location on Grange Road due to the bicycle and footpath crossing, and, b) poor attention (and worse) on the part of the driver.  Further to the above the road/cycleway/pedestrian configuration at the junction of Grange Road with Barton Road is confusing for drivers making it difficult for them to enter Barton Road, likely making a dangerous situation worse.

The solution: Cambridgeshire County Council needs to urgently assess and diagnose the problem and come up with and implement a solution.  Perhaps a three way traffic light system of some form?

The risk if nothing is done: If this junction isn’t improved sadly it may only be a matter of time before there is a serious or fatal accident here, quite possibly involving children.

Further case studies: If you have time please add in the comments any examples of dangerous situations that you've encountered at this crossing.  It will help our case tremendously.  Many thanks.

Thank you for your support of this petition.