Recently, a frightening and deeply upsetting incident occurred on Brownedge Lane in Bamber Bridge. A 10-year-old child, on her way to school near St Mary’s Catholic Church, was struck by a car and sustained significant injuries. This traumatic experience has left her terrified of crossing the road — a fear no child should have to carry just to get to school. Her story is not just one isolated tragedy, but a stark reminder of the risks our children face daily on this busy and dangerous road.

Brownedge Lane is a key route for families children and the elderly, yet it lacks the basic infrastructure necessary to ensure pedestrian safety. Every morning and afternoon, children walk this route — dodging speeding cars and navigating blind corners — without the protection of a safe crossing. This situation is unacceptable!

On average, three children under the age of 16 are killed or seriously injured every day on Britain’s roads (Road Safety Facts, RoSPA 2017). These are not just statistics — they are lives disrupted, families devastated and futures forever changed. The time for action is now!

In response to this growing concern, a public meeting was held to address the petition calling for the installation of a zebra crossing on Brownedge Lane. We want to thank all the residents, parents, school representatives, and community members who attended. Your passion, stories, and calls for change show the strength and unity of the Bamber Bridge community.

However, the response from the local council was disheartening. Council representatives stated that there are no plans to move forward with the installation of a crossing, citing a lack of funding. More concerning still, some officials shifted blame onto the children of Bamber Bridge rather than acknowledging the need for proper infrastructure. In an even more troubling justification, they claimed that pressure on the council budget from Adult Social Care and Children’s Social Care prevents them from funding critical road safety improvements.

Every child deserves to walk to school without fear. Every parent deserves peace of mind knowing their children can cross the street safely. 

We, the residents of Bamber Bridge, are calling on the council to reconsider their position and take immediate action. Installing a zebra crossing on Brownedge Lane is a simple, proven step that could save lives. The community has spoken, and we will continue to speak — louder and louder — until meaningful change is made.

Please sign the petition to demand a zebra crossing on Brownedge Lane. Let’s come together and ensure that no more children, elderly and families are put in harm’s way. This is about prevention. This is about protection. This is about doing what’s right for the future of the Bamber Bridge community.