On September 23rd, 2026, our friendly sociable trusting innocent and brilliant cat was tragically killed on Leslie Avenue. From our window, we see the exact spot he was left on the road. It's heartbreaking to think that if the driver had been driving slower, our gentle boy would still be with us bringing joy to us and our neighbours. This loss has been devastating to us, and it serves as a reminder that such an incident could also easily take the life of a child.

Leslie Avenue is a surprisingly busy route in our community. It surrounds a children's play park that draws in numerous local families, dog walkers, and students from nearby primary schools. Not to mention the thriving hedgehog community in the terrace gardens.  However, it has become a popular shortcut for drivers, many of whom speed through without regard for the potential dangers posed to pedestrians.

Moreover, the road is frequently lined with parked cars, further reducing the visibility for both motorists and those crossing the road. The current speed limit does not reflect the community's needs and puts everyone—especially children—at risk.

According to the Department for Transport, reducing speed limits to 20mph in residential areas can decrease accidents by as much as 40% and significantly lower the severity of accidents that do occur. This statistic underscores the urgent need for implementing a reduced speed zone combined with speed calming measures like speed bumps on Leslie Avenue.

We can prevent further tragedies by acting now. Let's make Leslie Avenue safer for everyone—protect our children, pets, and community members by reducing the speed limit from 30mph to 20mph and installing necessary safety measures. At the current speed limit there is no way a driver could stop when a child or animal runs out between parked cars. 

Please sign this petition to urge the local council to take immediate action to improve the safety of Leslie Avenue. Your support is crucial in making our community a safer place for everyone.