My name is Kevan, a wheelchair user who regularly crosses the railway bridge at Mountnessing Road in my vehicle. The narrow footpath on this bridge, which I speed across at 30mph, is just wide enough for  one pedestrian. The looming threat of an accident with 480 new houses planned nearby being planned; I now dread the day I might knock down a pedestrian, cyclist, or worse - a child.

Despite the evident risk, Basildon and Billericay council has recently approved a planning application for 480 new houses without considering the safety of pedestrians and cyclists crossing this railway bridge. These footpaths, which are far from being safe for a pedestrian, let alone a cyclist, are not in line with the council's claim of a cycle and pedestrian-friendly plan.

We need wider footpaths, marked lanes for pedestrians and cyclists, reflective signs, or lighting for safer navigation. An estimated 480 new households translate to potentially hundreds of additional people who may need to cross this railway bridge daily, amplifying the urgent need for improvements.

This isn't merely a rant but a cry for safety, and if the council wants to truly promote a pedestrian-friendly and cyclist-centric policy, I urge them to start with the railway crossing at Mountnessing Road. Thus, I petition the Basildon and Billericay council to revise their plan and ensure that this crossing is made safe for all before it is too late, turning this dangerous and narrow path into a safe zone for all. Please stand with me in ensuring our safety. Sign this petition.