Campaigners in call for crossing in Oldbury

Residents are demanding action to install a crossing on a busy road through Oldbury after a woman was recently knocked down.

Around 150 people have signed a petition to Sandwell Council asking for officials to introduce a new crossing, in Londonderry Road, Langley, to improve safety when out shopping.

But Council bosses have ruled that it falls below the required safety threshold.

Resident Sue Colhoun and her husband Patrick, aged 64 and 65 respectively, have led the campaign.

Mrs Colhoun was knocked down in May by a motorist who had been parked outside the Queens Head hardware store.

Mr Colhoun, a retired engineer, said: "This is a nice, vibrant area with shops that are used by the local community.

"But we fear for our lives trying to cross down here as it is so busy. We were told to use the other crossing but it is a quarter of a mile away and it is too far for people who struggle to walk."

Sandwell Council's neighbourhoods boss Councillor Ian Jones said: "The residents did present the petition to us, and the engineers and officers have been to looked at the road. I am afraid it does not however cross the safety threshold needed, for us to be able to install a crossing."