RESIDENTS fighting a road safety scheme in Hatch End have handed an 849 signature petition to Harrow Council.

The scheme aims to make traffic flow more smoothly and reduce the risk of crashes in Uxbridge Road but one of several proposed changes would involve replacing a pelican crossing with a zebra crossing.

Residents say motorists trying to join the main road from the side-streets, where they live, rely on the opening created by the red light breaking up the traffic.

They also argue a zebra crossing is not enough on a busy road and say elderly residents in the area rely on the beeping sound made by traffic lights to know when to cross.

Alvin Barnett, of Woodridings Avenue, who was instrumental in collecting the petition, said the plans would “completely revolutionise the high street” but voiced concern about the impact on residents.

He said: “When the lights turn red it's very important for the people on the side roads to actually find a gap in the traffic to come out.”

He added: “There are a lot of local elderly people. It's a very busy road. It would be quite dangerous for people to cross on an ordinary zebra crossing.

“People have judged that they don't want a zebra crossing – it's too dangerous.”

Tony Allen, chairman of the Hatch End Association, said: “There are a lot of concerns about the safety aspect of replacing the pelican crossing with a zebra crossing.

“I think we are also rather concerned at the compression of the time available to consult with local residents.”

The consultation started in mid January and was over by the end of the month.

A decision on the scheme will be made in due course.

Councillor Phil O'Dell, responsible for environment and community safety, said: “Improving the safety of motorists and pedestrians underpins our proposals for Uxbridge Road and we welcome the comments from everyone who has taken part in the informal consultation.

“We are listening to local residents and I thank the Hatch End Association for their help in capturing people’s views. We want to ensure that we make the right decisions in the interests of all road users.

“Officers will now discuss the feedback with ward councillors and we will also take on board the objections received, including this petition.

“The next stage is for officers to prepare a report with final details of the scheme ahead of a formal, statutory consultation, when local residents and traders will be able to comment further.”