LibDem Activist is campaigning for the repair of a Shefford road barrier.

8.47.00am GMT Sun 14th Mar 2010

Two years ago, a road barrier bordering Churchill Way, Shefford was damaged by a car sliding off the bend on the bridge. The road concerned is very busy, bearing lots of HGV traffic as well as being a 'route to school' for two schools and a Community College. Since the accident, Paul Mackin, Sheffords's Town major and LibDem party member has been calling for its repair and restoration.

The barrier was put in place in 2005 following a campaign pursed by Paul and the Town Council because there had been a series of accidents including three serious incidents when vehicles had left the road at this dangerous corner. One vehicle demolished part of the play area fence, another ended up in a nearby ditch several metres from the road.

Following the incident where the present damage was caused Paul has arranged for the Police to submit a damage report to Central Bedfordshire Council so that the cost of the necessary repairs may be charged to the driver's insurer. But given the time that has elapsed that might be too late.

Paul says "I am very concerned for the safety of pedestrians in this area and for children using the play equipment. We asked for the play area be located away for the 'outside' of this fast and dangerous bend during the initial planning phase but our request was ignored. Probably because of the cost of providing a safer location. Although the Police carryout speed checks in the area they do not do them at the times they are really required. My greatest concern now is for the children who could be damaged or killed by more vehicles leaving the road at this dangerous corner. Repairs are now essential and CBC needs to make funds available and collect from the relevant Insurers afterwards"

PAUL FJ MACKIN

SHefford Town Mayor & Liberal Democrat.