Apology issued over problematic on-off pedestrian crossing in Norwich

An apology has been issued to Norwich walkers and cyclists after a set of pedestrian lights was turned off again.

The pedestrian crossing on Chapel Field Road was off limits for more than three months last year, while work on Chapel Field North was carried out.

That work, part of a £1.7m scheme which saw a bus lane installed in Grapes Hill and St Stephen's closed to general traffic, finished before Christmas.

The pedestrian crossing was then turned back on. But earlier this month it was switched off, with barriers put up to stop people crossing the road.

Richard Bearman, leader of the Green group at Norfolk County Council and councillor for Mancroft, said it was annoying for pedestrians and cyclists. At a recent meeting of the Norwich Highways Agency committee, made up of city and county councillors, he said: 'I think it's important to recognise the inconvenience is quite high. When future works are being planned, I do think the needs of pedestrians and cyclists needs to be looked at.'

Joanne Deverick, Norwich City Council transportation and network manager, apologised for any inconvenience.

She said: 'Regrettably, it was not possible to conclude the works prior to Christmas, without having a serious detrimental impact on the traffic in the city centre at the busiest time of the year. The decision was taken to suspend the works for the Christmas embargo period.'

She said when signalled crossings were taken out of commission, alternatives were provided – with the Grapes Hill footbridge and the Chapel Field Road underpass the alternatives in this case.

As reported, other roadworks started this week in Magdalen Street and are due to start in Tombland and Palace Street in April.

• Do you think councils do enough for pedestrians and cyclists when carrying out roadworks? Write, giving full contact details, to Letters Editor, Prospect House, Rouen Road, Norwich NR1 1RE.