Faded zebras putting pedestrians at risk - Blackpool councillor warns
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Coun Gary Coleman, leader of the Independents on the council, says among the crossings in need of attention are three on the Central Promenade.
Now he has asked for inspections to be carried out and remedial work to be done if possible.
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Hide AdCoun Coleman, who raised the issue at full council, said after the meeting: "Whilst I understand the budget pressures the council is having to contend with, I think it is vital such things as pedestrian and driver safety are not compromised.
"I feel a number of zebra crossings in Blackpool are currently a safety hazard resulting from faded road markings.
"On the Promenade in the town centre there are three crossings that are in serious need of attention.
"I know it is only paint but I feel the crossings should be clearly marked to avoid confusion for both pedestrians and drivers alike."
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Hide AdLast year the council came under fire for reducing its annual spending on road maintenance.
A Freedom of Information (FOI) request revealed spending on road maintenance, including road markings, had dropped from £2.1m in 2016 to £1.4m in 2018.
Coun Coleman added: "I am aware there are flashing yellow beacons but on a number of occasions I have witnessed cars failing to stop appropriately on the Promenade.
"Zebra crossings should be clear and unambiguous in order to make the roads safer for everyone. The problem is exacerbated in the dark and in wet weather.
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Hide Ad"There are numerous other zebra crossings that need attention, some outside schools such as South Shore Academy.
"I worry that pedestrians with learning difficulties, the partially sighted, children, and those with disabilities are particularly at risk when using faded zebra crossings that are not clearly marked.
"I have asked for the council to inspect all the zebra crossings in Blackpool and to carry out remedial work as soon as possible where it is necessary."
In reply to Coun Coleman at full council, deputy leader Coun Gillian Campbell said she had seen the problem for herself.
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Hide AdShe said: "The only thing I will say is while the markings themselves are faded, we do have the zebra lights so you can see a zebra crossing."
A spokesperson for the council said its inspectors did go out to check road markings and "if deemed necessary to re-paint then they will put it forward for work."
People can report concerns about zebra crossing markings either online or at the council's customer first centre on Corporation Street.