Residents rally to campaign for return of railings amid safety concerns

People living in Upwey and Broadwey, Weymouth, are hoping their efforts will lead to Dorset County Council re-instating the sets of railings which were in close proximity to a preschool.

The railings on Dorchester Road, Broadwey, were removed last year by the county council as traffic levels in the area decreased.

However, residents say they have seen a significant rise in the traffic over the last few months and are now worried about the safety of local children.

The railings were situated next to traffic lights and were seen by residents as a way to encourage young people to use the crossing, as they helped to dissuade individuals who may be tempted to run across the road.

Resident Alan Bryson, 82, said: “I have lived in the area for 44 years and I can honestly say that those railings have probably saved many young children’s lives.

“They were a guide to young children in making sure they used the crossing, and could be safe, instead of chancing their arm on a busy road.

Without something as simple as the railings, I honestly fear someone could be knocked down.”

Resident Kieron Womble, who has been helping to lead the campaign for the railings to be reinstated, said: “The area contains many churches, pre-schools, primary and secondary schools - meaning many vulnerable groups are at risk.

“And from a health and safety aspect we would like the council to reconsider.

“I have had a number of people approach me about this issue.

“And I felt compelled to see what can be done.

“Almost everyone in the local area has given their support for the railings being reinstated, and I feel they should be.

“The railings have provided children with a guide to access and cross the road at the safest point, which is at the pedestrian controlled crossing.

“There are lots of children in this area.

“I would hate to think that lives are at risk, purely because a set of railings was not put up.”

The county council has been contacted for comment.