New £40,000 crossing will make it safer to visit Hartlepool park

A raised zebra crossing and footpath will be installed in Park Avenue to make it easier and safer for people to get to Ward Jackson Park from its car park.

A road hump will be put at the northern end of Park Avenue just before the junction with Cresswell Road to slow down traffic, and which will also act as a crossing point for pedestrians.

And a 20mph speed limit will be introduced on Park Avenue between The Parade and Elwick Road.

Alastair Smith, assistant director (neighbourhoods), said in a report: “Following the provision of a designated car park for Ward Jackson Park, within the grounds of the former Tunstall Court building, it has been the intention to improve pedestrian links between the car park and the park.

“There have also been concerns regarding the speed of traffic on Park Avenue.

“This will give a direct, safer link from the car park to the park for pedestrians, and encourage greater use of the car park by visitors.”

The scheme, estimated to cost about £40,000, was supported by the council’s Neighbourhood Services committee.

Councillor Brenda Loynes said: “As ward councillor, I support this scheme.” Coun Loynes asked if the 20mph limit could be extended down to the Wooler Road roundabout, adding: “The Parade is a rat run.”

Officers said consultation would be needed and the new scheme will be monitored for a year to 
see if any more work is needed.