'Road is tragedy waiting to happen'

8:50am Saturday 5th July 2008

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A group of mothers is campaigning for a safer crossing on a dangerous road they say is a launchpad for speeding drivers.

Concerned parents are asking Haringey Council to reduce the speed limit, install a pelican crossing and introduce double yellow lines in Downhills Park Road, Tottenham.

And they believe action needs to be urgent to prevent an accident.

Group co-ordinator Sue Jameson said: "We are lucky nothing has happened yet but that doesn't mean it won't. It's a tragedy waiting to happen. The best time to act is now.

"Drivers, many of whom are on their mobile phones, use the road to gather speed. It's like a launchpad. They really take off. It is major worry for us because of the number of young children who have to cross the road."

The busy road is often used by drivers as a shortcut between West Green Road and St Ann's Road, and forms part of several bus routes.

But it is also used as a crossing by many children and young people on their way to Downhills Park or on their route to school.

So far, more than 1,000 signatures have been gathered, including those from headteachers at schools in the vicinity, including Belmont Infant School, Downhills School and Park View Academy, who fear for their students' safety.

West Green Playgroup and Bruce Grove Residents Network have written to the council outlining the need for a safe crossing.

The group is also backed by Tottenham MP David Lammy, who met with parents to hear their concerns before signing the petition.

Mr Lammy said: "I used to come to Downhills Park almost every day as a child and, even then, people were calling for a safer crossing.

"Fast forward 30 years and, as a dad, I know how important it is to ensure our roads are as safe as they can be for our children and young people. I am really proud to sign up today and give them my full support."

A council spokesman said the authority was looking at what measures could be introduced to make the road safer.