Plans are being drawn up for the next stage of the London Road ‘improvements’. Whatever you feel about the first phase, which has seen disruption around the Headley Way junction, the next stage, from Osler Road to Bury Knowle Park, will be all the more high-profile and will have a significant impact on the area. Ruth and I both think that the opportunity should be taken really to improve the whole area, in conjunction with the changing shop-face of the centre. First of all, though, there needs to be real consultation on what the County is proposing.

At present, there are some controversial proposals from the County: having a raised junction at Windmill Rd but keeping the present layout for cars crossing the junction, moving bus stops, decreasing the taxi rank, changing the parking arrangements and — most controversial of all — removing the underpass and replacing it with a pedestrian crossing, just west of Stephen Road.

As you know, your local councillors have worries about getting rid of the underpass, which many elderly people, and young mothers, tell us is the only way they feel safe crossing the road. A crossing would not solve all those problems, as some who are slower of the mark feel pressured by the limited timespan of the green man. On the other hand, I have heard people also say they would like to see a crossing permanently where there is a temporary one now — next to Osler Road. So, perhaps this should all be re-thought.

But, at this stage, Ruth and I want to hear your views. Please do send us your comments, writing them here or sending us an e-mail. At this point, we want to get as broad a range of opinions as necessary. Let’s make this into a big conversation!