SAFETY fears have been raised over a new zebra crossing in Lymm.

It has finally been installed near the lower dam, on Church Road, following pressure from councillors.

Resident and Liberal Democrat campaigner Tim Martland welcomed the crossing but says the work has taken too long to complete.

“I live nearby and know how dangerous it can be for people crossing the road between the dam and the dingle,” he said.

“It has been left more dangerous than before with no belishas working.

“I have been told it will take up to two weeks for the electricity to be connected.

“The zig-zag lines on the dam side are confusing and cars are allowed to park too close to the crossing.

“Visibility is poor for vehicles travelling in the Warrington direction.

“I realise that the loss of parking places should be minimised at such a popular visitor attraction but public safety must be paramount.”

Councillors have contacted the borough council to call for immediate action after highlighting the concerns raised by residents.

The authority says the safety of pedestrians is of vital importance and is given ‘great consideration’ upon the design and installation of any crossing.

It insists the crossing has been designed to ensure pedestrian safety, while maintaining some parking provision in the area.

A council spokesman added: “We are confident that the new crossing provides ample warning and visibility to drivers, meaning pedestrians crossing at this point will be able to do so safely.

“As part of this installation we have carried out a number of safety checks, including monitoring traffic speeds in both directions.

“The average speed of cars as they approached the crossing was below the national criteria used to assess the safety of zebra crossings.

“We are working closely with Scottish Power so they can complete the necessary electrical connections to power the beacons.

“Once the crossing facility is fully operational it will be subject to an independent safety audit and, if recommended by the auditors, amendments to the design will be considered.”

The council expects the electrical connections work to be completed by February 26.