SEVERAL improvements aimed at improving safety for pedestrians in a town centre road have been unveiled.
Key changes included in the upcoming work in Station Approach, Swanage include narrowing the exit from the road to slow traffic and discourage vehicles from entering via the roundabout.
In addition, there will be an upgraded pedestrian crossing with a coloured surface aimed at increasing driver awareness along with a continuous coloured footway across the Co-op entrance/exit to give pedestrians priority.
Meanwhile, the pavement will soon be widened in front of the station loading bay to keep pedestrians away from the road.
The disabled parking bays will be raised to footway level for better access to the health centre and the area will be resurfaced with new road markings.
Cliff Sutton, chairman of the Swanage Town Council’s traffic management advisory committee, said the work will be carried out at night to minimise disruption.
Cllr Sutton said: “This ensures that shoppers, transport hub users, and visitors to the medical centre can continue to use the area during the day.
“I would like to thank the businesses and organisations operating in Station Approach for their understanding and support, which has been invaluable in helping us deliver these improvements.”
Work will begin on Monday, January 13 and is anticipated to end on Friday, February 7.
Mike Bonfield, chairman of the town council’s community services committee, added he is delighted that the “long-awaited” improvements are finally going ahead.
He said: “As a busy and well-used transport hub, this area will greatly benefit from improved accessibility and enhanced pedestrian and road safety measures.
“I’d like to extend my gratitude to Dorset Council, and also to Accessible Swanage for their valuable input and the time they’ve dedicated to collaborating with us, which has been instrumental in shaping the final design of the scheme.”
Access to the taxi rank should remain largely unaffected outside of these times, Swanage Town Council added.
But unexpected site conditions or severe weather may extend the duration of works, but the town counci said it’ll do its best to stay on schedule.
A spokesman said: “If you have any questions or need further information, feel free to contact us at 01929 766034 or via email to: admin@swanage.gov.uk.
“Thank you for your understanding as we work to make Swanage safer and more accessible for all.”
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