Tackling danger on the road (From Gazette Series)

Tackling danger on the road

A DANGEROUS stretch of road in Dursley could be tamed by a new traffic calming measure being installed by Persimmon Homes.

The company, which completed a takeover of Westbury Homes in January, is set to build a puffin crossing at the Highfields Approach junction on Uley Road.

The introduction of the crossing forms part of an agreement Westbury Homes made before it developed the nearby old Mawdsleys site several years ago.

It could help reduce the speed of cars in the area, which is gaining notoriety as an accident hotspot.

A spokesman for Gloucestershire County Council, which is in charge of the region's roads, said: "A puffin crossing is to be provided on the Dursley side of the junction with Highfields Approach.

"All legal procedures to allow the crossing are complete. The work will be undertaken and funded by the nearby development."

Gloucestershire county councillor Margaret Nolder said the developers will be pressed into action by the council until the crossing is built.

Cllr Nolder said: "When a big company takes over another, it's their responsibility to conform to the same agreements that have been previously made.

"I think it's going to happen - the county council will pursue this vigorously. I hope they get on with it."

Persimmon's regional officer was unavailable for comment this week - the Gazette will announce the start date as soon as it is known.

Matt Nicholson, chairman of the nearby Highfields Residents' Association, said: "Anything that helps reduce the speed of traffic in this area is appreciated - I think this is a good idea."