Caroline Pidgeon, the Liberal Democrat London Assembly Transport Spokesperson, has revealed that one in five pedestrian crossings in London do not give people enough time to cross the road.
The figures, which had to be obtained by a Freedom of Information inquiry, show 472 crossings do not comply with the minimum timings guidelines from the Department of Transport. These crossings do not provide enough time between the green man light disappearing and the amber light appearing for motorists.
Caroline Pidgeon said:
“London has the highest number of pedestrian deaths and serious injuries of any other region of the UK so it is simply appalling that Londoners have to put up with hundreds of pedestrian crossings which are inadequate.
“The national guidance on this issue was issued in 2005, so it is not new. TfL really have no excuses. Pedestrians should be able to cross junctions without having to worry about their safety.
“As a matter of real urgency the Mayor and TfL should get their act together and ensure that the crossings are made as safe as possible, as quickly as possible."
The BBC has covered Caroline's findings here.
Photo: Caroline Pidgeon AM and Councillor George Allan from Islington, at the junction of Pentonville Road and Penton Rise near King's Cross.