The mixed reactions towards new zebra crossings being trialled at junctions in Cardiff
New zebra crossings being trialled in Cardiff have received a mixed reaction from residents. The 'simple zebra crossings' are being installed at three side roads across Llandaff North and Whitchurch as part of a Welsh Government-funded project.
Normal zebra crossings - known as 'prescribed' zebra crossings - have a series of alternate black and white stripes with give way lines on either side, Belisha beacons, studs outlining the crossing area and zigzag markings. The simplified 'non-prescribed' zebra crossings only have the black and white stripes and give way lines.
Cardiff Council is delivering the initiative. In FAQs explaining the trial, the council said the crossings are meant to encourage active travel like walking. The simplified design of the new crossings means they are cheaper to implement and maintain. They can also be installed more quickly and with minimal disruption.
The lack of zigzag markings also means the crossings can be installed "on pedestrians' desired walking line, directly across the mouth of the junction," the FAQs added. They are being trialled at the junctions of Station Road/Evansfield Road and Station Road/Hawthorn Road East in Llandaff North, as well as the junction of Bishops Road/Merthyr Road in Whitchurch.
The aim of the pilot is to understand the "impacts and user perceptions" of the new crossings and decide whether to use them in future, the council said. The crossing at Whitchurch has already been installed, and the other sites will be painted in due course. But the scheme has already proven controversial, with residents split in their opinions.
Whitchurch resident Dan Allsobrook, 50, welcomed the installation of the crossing at the junction of Bishops Road/Merthyr Road. He thinks it will remind drivers that they must give way to pedestrians, as well as encourage them to adhere to the 20mph speed limit and pay more attention while driving.
This is a great idea it will help disabled people driving mobility scooters as well as young mums pushing their prams well done Wales.
