Calls for cameras in Walsall town centre after pedestrian hit by car

It comes after a car collided with a woman in her 30s at St Paul's Street last week, causing her to suffer head injuries and be taken to hospital.

Blakenall Councillor Pete Smith claims many motorists are ignoring a road sign at the junction of Lichfield Street and Bridge Street, warning drivers about the pedestrian zone ahead which can only be accessed by buses, taxis, permit holders and for loading.

He said: "The blatant disregard for this sign results in constant heavy traffic on St Paul's Street where the bus station is located.

"This in turn is increasing the likelihood of accidents."

Councillor Smith is now calling for traffic enforcement cameras to be placed at the location so drivers who flout the rules are handed automatic fines.

He added: "In certain crowded areas, particularly those designated pedestrian zones like bus station areas, the rights of pedestrians must come before the rights of motorists who flout the rules in order to make a short cut.

"Until action is taken to enforce the traffic rules on this stretch of road, the chances of further serious accidents to pedestrians near the bus station will continue."

Walsall Council's deputy leader, Councillor Adrian Andrew said it was disappointing that a number of motorists continue to drive into the restricted area of Bridge Street despite clear signage indicating the restriction.

But he added: "The council cannot install a traffic enforcement camera as it does not have the legislative powers to undertake this type of enforcement.

"These powers are held by the police who do undertake enforcement to limit the number of motorists illegally driving into Bridge Street.

"Council officers are in regular contact with the police and will continue to work with them to improve this situation."

Emergency services were called at 5.20pm on September 28 following reports of a collision involving a pedestrian and a Skoda Octavia.

The woman sustained a head injury and other abrasions and was treated at the scene before being taken to Walsall Manor Hospital.

The road was closed at Bridge Street for a short time.

The driver of the car was spoken to at the scene by police officers but no arrests were made.

The accident comes after a fatal collision at Walsall bus station in 2007.

Pedestrian Jean Crump, aged 65, of Bentley, suffered fatal injuries when she was involved in the incident involving an Arriva 360 bus.

The tragedy, which took place in St Paul's Street, left six others injured.