Bulford Mill Lane is a pretty, narrow, tree-lined road that connects Cressing with Black Notley. It is an ancient right-of-way, the Knights Templar owned a mill on the road where local farmers would bring their harvest to be ground into flour and it has Protected Lane status.
 
Halfway along the lane is Cressing station, the vital transport link to London, used by commuters and shoppers alike. The station is categorised as “sustainable transport” when new developments are being considered and a key reason why so many have been pushed though. 
 
But, as so many similar roads across Essex do, it is creaking under the burden imposed by these large-scale developments and the commensurate increase in traffic, vehicular and pedestrian. 
 
The Lane is mostly unlit, lacks footpaths and, in many places, too narrow for 2 cars to pass. At one point, close to the station, the it is barely 4m wide. And there are three 90o “blind” bends.

Pedestrians, including the elderly and those with prams and young children share the space with cars coming from both directions. It would be comical if not true but the national speed limit of 60mph is still in force and some drivers seem to feel the need to explore this!
 
It is not an exaggeration to say that pedestrians are under constant risk of serious injury, particularly in bad weather and at night when a mobile phone torch is a life-saving essential.   
 
The situation is critical and is expected to deteriorate further with additional developments currently in the consultation stage. 
 
Essex Highways have been approached on many occasions but have declined to engage. They have passed the issue to Local Highways Panel (LHP) who have also refused to consider any action. 
 
Why you should sign this petition
Our local and county authorities have a duty of care to prioritise pedestrian and road safety and this is a clear dereliction of that duty.
 
Directly, hundreds of people use Bulford Mill Lane daily and everyone is at risk. But the same problems are being faced by thousands of residents across Essex and the disregard being shown by the relevant authorities affect us all.
 
We are asking Essex Highways and the LHP to stop ignoring the warning signs, consult meaningfully and immediately with local residents and undertake a risk assessment based on up-to-date data. 
 
Listen to local people and prioritise pedestrian safety