Crossing petition signed by 1000

A petition with more than 1000 signatures has been submitted to Gosford Council calling for the retention of the raised pedestrian crossing in West St, Umina.

Organised by resident Mr Dean Hardigan, it claims that downgrading the amenity would endanger elderly, infirm and visually impaired members of the community.

The petition also states that the addition of pedestrian lights would enhance the long-term safety and further improve the interface between vehicles and increasing numbers of elderly pedestrians with special needs.

"If this crossing is removed, people can race through here without having to slow down," Mr Hardigan said.

Owner of Coopers of Umina, Ms Ingrid Bennett agreed that the crossing should not be removed.

"All we want is drainage, so that our store doesn't flood," she said.

The problem first arose when Gosford Council revealed plans to remove the West St crossing several months ago.

Peninsula Chamber of Commerce president Mr Matthew Wales said that a road-level crossing would make the road clearer to pedestrians.

Council's manager of engineering service, Mr John Cragg, has said the council agreed to hold off on work to examine whether it was practicable to keep a raised crossing.

The petition is yet to be brought to council.

Lyle Stone, September 17