We would like to begin by introducing ourselves and explaining why we have decided to go forward with this petition. We are the sisters of Liam Sharpe, Holly and Sophie Sharpe. 

We are currently trying to navigate life after we received the most devastating news on the 13th January 2024. We tragically lost our dear dear friend Oliver Gatfield and our brother Liam Sharpe was severely injured after they collided into a tree on the A602 Park Way, Hitchin.

At this present time the cause of the crash is unknown. However, this incident is not an isolated incident and it reflects the larger problems surrounding the road previously mentioned.

The first recorded concern regarding this road dates back to 2010 where a local resident, Paul O’Shaughnessy, had figures to show that of the 53,000 vehicles using the route a week, 12,000 of them were travelling at prosecutable speed. He also added that he’d been in contact with district and county councillors, herts highways, police and MPs, added that he didn’t have a problem with cars using the road, but that measures such as a roundabout, resurfacing and speed calling needed to be introduced. 

Fast forward to 2012, a two year battle to try and improve the safety of the road reached a dead end. Paul O’Shaughnessy then addressed the Hitchin committee in 2013 on the same safety issues regarding Charlton road and it was agreed that the Hitchin committee was to formally agree to support the investigation and proposed solution of the issues raised.

In 2014, roadworks were carried out on behalf of Hertfordshire County Council at a cost of £88,600 to try to reduce the amount of accidents. However, the layout did nothing to address the safety issues and made things worse. After the alterations were made drivers said that they were left with poor visibility when being isolated in the centre of the road, with comments reading that most drivers had to look back over their shoulder to see if the road is clear not to mention there being little room to line up square to the bypass. This is further complicated due to other road users ignoring the speed limit implemented with currently sits at 50MPH.

With countless amount of crashes recorded between 2010 and this present time, it is with a heavy heart that we as a family and community are suffering the effects of this dangerous road due to negligence from Hertfordshire County council.

We feel passionately about improving this road so no more lives are lost and no more families have to suffer as a result.

 

By making changes which could include traffic lights, speed cameras, or introducing a roundabout at the junction alongside installing crash barriers to the side of the road where currently there is not (Hitchin to Stevenage direction).

Deaths shouldn’t be used as an example as to why a dangerous road needs to be addressed. Action is required urgently. 

Please sign this petition if you agree that there needs to be immediate action towards improving this road.

Where there is love, there is hope. OG x LS forever #forever19  ✨