§ Mr. Peter Luff (Mid-Worcestershire)It is my very sad duty to present a petition from 490 residents of North 355 Claines and members of the general public using the A38 through Fernhill Heath in Worcestershire. It is one of the great sadnesses of being a Member of Parliament that one discovers that it is often only after a fatal accident has occurred that the necessary traffic-calming measures are put in place. The petition describes one such circumstance.
The petition implies no criticism of the Highways Agency, which is about to de-trunk the road and is at last showing sufficient urgency in its approach to the problem. However, with the imminence of de-trunking, the petitioners believe that it is all the more important that the House of Commons, the Highways Agency and the successor body, Worcestershire county council, are reminded of the importance of the issue.
The petition states:
The Petition of North Claines Parish Council on behalf of the residents and general public using the A38T through Fernhill Heath, Worcestershire.Declares that, due to traffic speed and volume and the lack of traffic calming measures, this has contributed to the tragic death of a four year old child on the A38T outside Hindlip Church of England First School.The Petitioner therefore requests that the House of Commons supports the recommendations of the North Claines Parish Council that Worcestershire County Council "Safer Routes to School" measures for Hindlip Church of England First School be accepted along with the following additions:—A further speed reduction to 20 mph outside Hindlip Church of England First School.The 30 mph limit extended past Hindlip Hall Drive towards Sandyway Cottages.A pelican crossing installed at an appropriate point as there is no "lollipop person" at Hindlip Church of England First School.And the Petitioner remains, etc.To lie upon the Table.