A year ago I started writing my online musings for the Spurtle. I began by bemoaning the late indicators of Broughton, those who don’t value the lowly pedestrian’s safety and regularly try to mow us down.
The problem was particularly bad on Drummond Place where every day I would put my life in the hands of an incompetent driver. I don’t for one minute blame all drivers – it’s clear there are many who espect the Highway Code – but there are many others who should be forced to travel by tram or, worse, walk the pavement.
Two victories for those on foot have occurred recently, both – obviously – the result of Council officials reading these sage words. First, plans for more 20mph speed limits in the city centre are being taken forward to the next stage, and the green light has been given for a signalised crossing at the junction of London Street and Drummond Place.
Some residents and drivers may not be best pleased, but if it helps protect pedestrians then surely it’s a step in the right direction. I know it won’t put an end to late indicators or reckless and feckless drivers, but it’s a start.
Anyway, to celebrate the momentous occasion of this column's first anniversary, I have decided to take a walk around Broughton and share some fresh grumblings for all those on foot.
Trying to walk up Leith Street is tough going. You have several different roads to observe going to various car parks and staff access roads. There’s also a hotel drop-off point, a busy bus stop and random steep sections of pavement.
It’s even trickier whilst pushing a pram, but what on earth are you supposed to do if you’re a wheelchair user? Arthur’s Seat would be easier. Let’s hope this street gets some attention when work starts on the new St James’ Quarter.
Calton Road
Network Rail have installed lift access to Calton Road from Waverley Station, making that side entrance accessible at long last. But the approach to Leith Street is very awkward along the ultra-thin pavements. No room for a suitcase let alone an overtaking pedestrian.
Broughton’s parents are spoilt for choice when it comes to parks and green spaces. However, access to these wonderful places is not very well thought out.
Barony Place resembles a building site at the moment. This quiet back street is not classed as very important, and it doesn’t seem to be an issue for the builders to take over much of it for a limited period. But surely some effort could be made to at least try and make access to the garden approachable, especially for parents with pushchairs.
Exiting King George V Park via Royal Crescent involves walking along a muddy path which eventually connects to a pavement, but you often have to overcome rubbish, recycling bins, branches and bushes along the way. Alternatively, you can cross cobbled streets and hope for the best. Why can’t there be a completed pavement here?
Occasionally pedestrians are forced to overtake parked cars outside Avis Car Hire on East London Street. Customers dropping off or picking up cars park in the space directly outside Avis, which means veering onto the busy road to pass them.
It’s understandable that outside the premises is an ideal drop off point, but some courtesy and thought needs to be given.
A call to legs ...
These are just a few of the issues that pedestrians in Broughton face day after day. There are many more, so please feel free to share your grumblings with me. Since the Council are avidly reading this page you can expect swift action to be taken in about a year from now.
Until then, stay off the pavements. No, wait a minute, that doesn’t sound right?