We understand public concern around pedestrian welfare and we are therefore committed to promoting highway safety and preventing accidents.

The Highway Code providesinformation about the different types of crossings and the rules for pedestrians.

A number of principles apply when considering whether a controlled pedestrian crossing (such as a zebra crossing) is appropriate at a specific location, including:

  • the number of pedestrians,
  • speed and volume of traffic,
  • collisions data,
  • preferred crossing point,
  • proximity to junctions, bends and vehicle crossovers,
  • width of the footways
  • demand for on-street parking,
  • location of bus stops.

Other site specific issues may be identified during an inspection by a traffic engineer, preventing the installation of a pedestrian crossing.

A controlled pedestrian crossing will only operate correctly when used regularly throughout the day. If it is not used regularly, the crossing may be ignored by drivers and, as a result, pedestrians may be at risk when they do use the crossing. Where traffic flow is low, pedestrians may be able to cross the road comfortably in the gaps between vehicles without the need for a pedestrian crossing.

Alternatively, an uncontrolled pedestrian crossing, such as a pedestrian refuge (traffic island), may be more suitable crossing. A pedestrian refuge allows pedestrians to cross the road in two stages by creating a safe waiting point in the middle of the carriageway. This type of crossing aid is appropriate when the overall pedestrian numbers are lower, but there are significant vehicle movements. Adequate island widths for pedestrians and sufficient carriageway widths for vehicles must be achievable before this type of crossing solution can be considered.

Crossings are expensive to install and maintain and will only be considered where there is a demonstrable need and where the benefits will outweigh disbenefits, such as resultant delays inadvertently redirecting traffic along less suitable routes.

If you wish to contact us about a traffic enquiry, please complete our traffic enquiry contact form.