New speed limits for South Shields streets after death of pensioner on busy road

South Tyneside Council plan for Marsden Road, South Shields, will also see traffic speed limits reduced to from 30mph to 20mph in 14 other streets nearby.

The scheme, now subjest to planning approval, will also see nearby streets including Harton House Road, Mitchell Gardens, Harton House Road East, Harton Rise, Grinstead Close, Highfield Drive, Horsley Vale, High Meadow, Midhurst Avenue, Leafield Crescent, Wells Grove, Westhope Close and Ridley Close also having speed restrictions lowered.

The move comes following the death of pensioner Martha Johnson was knocked over and died on Marsden Road, last year.

The tragedy happened in August - only yards from the Aged Miners Cottages - where the 88-year-old former charity worker lived and led to residents calling for additional road safety measures to be introduced in the area.

Parking issues have also been raised as an issue.

A spokeswoman for South Tyneside Council said: “Road safety is a top priority for us.

“The proposals are to reduce the speed limit on Marsden Road and the surrounding area to 20mph. They also include the installation of speed cushions and aim to improve safety along this stretch, where a pedestrian sadly died last year.

“The planned scheme has been drafted in consultation with ward members and statutory bodies, including the police, and followed a consultation event with local people earlier in the year.

“A new signalised puffin crossing has now been installed as the first stage of the works. This crossing replaced a temporary crossing point that was put in place after the incident.

“Members of the public are invited to submit written representations on the proposed speed reduction measures by 17th August.”

Residents can have their say by contacting Head of Legal Services, South Tyneside Council, South Shields Town Hall, Westoe Road, South Shields, NE33 2RL or emailing [email protected]