New puffin crossing to be installed on busy South Shields road

Work began on March 15 to install a signalised puffin crossing on Galsworthy Road, between its junctions with Whiteleas Way and Benton Road.

A puffin crossing can detect when people are using it, as well as monitor traffic flows to help ensure vehicles are not waiting needlessly.

The scheme, which also involves removing the existing pedestrian refuge, comes following historical road safety concerns in the area and a public consultation held earlier this year.

Cllr Ernest Gibson – South Tyneside Council’s lead member for area management and community safety, and a Whiteleas ward member – said: “This route is a particularly busy stretch of road, with traffic moving between South Shields and Boldon Colliery.

“It is also flanked by residents’ homes on one side and a children’s play area on the other.

“A puffin crossing works really well for both the pedestrian and driver, ensuring pedestrians have time to cross the road without causing any unnecessary delays to traffic.”

The improvements are expected to take around five weeks to complete.

During this time, temporary two-way traffic signals will be in operation, enabling the works to be carried out safely. Pedestrian diversion routes will also be put in place.

The improvements have also been welcomed by fellow Whiteleas ward members, Cllrs Bill Brady and Doreen Purvis, and are being funded from the council’s road safety budget and a contribution from the West Shields, Cleadon and East Boldon Community Area Forum.