Protect Families using Chalkers Lane – We Need Improvements in Safety Now

Two children have already been hit by cars on Chalkers Lane — including a hit and run. This road is clearly not safe for pedestrians.

Every day, parents and children walk, or cycle along Chalkers Lane to reach schools, nurseries, the GP, library and parks. But there is no footpath, forcing families into the road and putting lives at risk.

In the last month alone, while pushing our young children in a pram and wearing high-vis jackets, we’ve had multiple terrifying near misses.

In one incident, a driver didn’t see us until the last moment. In another, a car overtook us just as an oncoming vehicle came around the bend, narrowly avoiding a collision. 

Dangerous incidents are common here. Recently, a car took the bend by Danworth Lane too fast, mounted the bank and hit a tree. If pedestrians had been there, the outcome could have been fatal. Crashes happen at least once or twice a year. Last year, a car travelling 70mph crashed into a garden fence on Chalkers Lane. Cars regularly have to be removed from verges and gardens.

Someone has also been knocked off their bike by a passing car on this road.

Local families have spent years asking for safety improvements including reduced speed and speed bumps and have repeatedly been turned down. 

There is space along the grassy banks to install a space-efficient footpath along this short but hazardous stretch, connecting to existing routes into Hurstpierpoint. 

Right now many families feel forced to drive short 2–5 minute trips rather than risk walking, adding to congestion and parking problems. A safe walking route would mean cleaner air, safer travel, and a stronger community.

Please don’t wait for a tragedy. More young families are moving into the area every month, and at least eight families with multiple children rely on this road daily, not to mention those travelling to Hurst School, which is only a few minutes further down the lane.

We urgently ask the council to prioritise the design and installation of a footpath along Chalkers Lane, linking Danworth Lane with existing off-road routes into Hurstpierpoint, alongside additional safety measures.

Let’s make sure no one has to risk their life just to get their child to school.

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We need 3,000 signatures to enable this petition to be debated at a meeting of the full County Council!