Plans for pedestrian crossing at junction near Lidl in Burgess Hill

The crossing has been requested by county councillor Andrew Barrett-Miles following concerns over safety of the busy road.

Mr Barrett-Miles said: “The government has established the Emergency Active Travel Fund (EATF) to promote cycling and walking.

“West Sussex County Council has until August 7, to submit suitable projects up to a sum of £3.25million to the Department for Transport. I have requested that a signalised pedestrian crossing at this junction be included in the county council’s submission.

“Although this project will be considered by the county council alongside a large number of other projects from across the county it meets the necessary criteria so it should stand a good chance.

“Let’s keep our fingers crossed. Also, even if it does not go forward to the EATF, it is still part of the longer term plans for the Burgess Hill Growth Area being developed by the county council and Mid Sussex District Council so we should get it eventually but early delivery would be welcomed by the community.”

Ever since the completion of the new Lidl store in Leylands Road residents have been asking for a crossing, Mr Barrett-Miles said.

He said after detailed investigation by WSCC Highways, this is the only possible location for the crossing.

He added that his request has been backed by Burgess Hill Town Council.

Mr Barrett-Miles commented: “Mill Road is an important route to the town centre from the north of the town and the new Northern Arc development.

“The crossing will aid pedestrians and cyclists coming from this area.

“Mill Road and Leylands Road are also important routes to several schools and this crossing will make travel much safer for our children and hopefully promote walking and cycling.

“There will also be the additional benefit of traffic calming on this part of Leylands Road.”

Diane Heckels’s youngest son attends Burgess Hill Academy and walks there and back with friends every day. She said: “Leylands Road is extremely busy especially in the morning and I worry about the children getting across the road safely – there are also children walking to Sheddingdean and Manor field. To know we have a safe place for children, parents and the general public to cross such a busy road safely would be a huge relief to many I’m sure. This is certainly much needed and as a parent I’m sure many would agree.”

Simon Hicks, councillor for Leylands Ward, said that with new housing being built at Freeks Lane, as well as Lidl, it is important the Mill Road/Leylands Road junction is improved.

He added: “It can be a nightmare not only for pedestrians and cyclists trying to cross the road, but for cars turning from Mill Road and Freeks Lane into Leylands Road.”

Pru Moore, former leader of the town council and Burgess Hill resident, said she was delighted at the news following years of hard work.

She added: “This road junction has caused difficulty for residents for many years. It has been exacerbated by the most welcome Lidl development, making life very difficult for parents of children and elderly people to cross the road. This will give hope to residents that there will be a resolution.”

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