Zebra Crossings on Side Streets Increase Pedestrian Confidence

Edinburgh had a summit on new zebra crossings. They wanted them on side streets like in Europe. It happened over a year ago. Money seemed to be the problem in March 2024. The council said they had no funds for it then. But, Councillor Neil Ross became more hopeful recently.

Neil Ross brought it up on November 7, 2024. He said these crossings boost road safety. People feel safer crossing roads with them. They give pedestrians priority at side streets. These crossings are also quite cheap. Ross thinks the government should legalize them.

Ross said that low-cost zebra crossings improve safety. However, funding from a trust is still pending. They probably won’t get a decision this month.

Daisy Narayanan gave an update in March 2024. The last update was in September 2023. The council and Transform Scotland held an event. It publicized a study on these crossings. Edinburgh Napier University did the study.

The event was for other Scottish authorities. The aim was to get support. They wanted on-street trials in Scotland. The council explained their interest in Edinburgh. Professor Pat Landon presented the study. Representatives from other areas shared their experiences too.

Forty-eight people attended the event. They represented councils, partnerships, and Transport Scotland. The Q&A showed a lot of interest. Councils want these crossings in Scotland. Transform Scotland is writing a letter. It asks for ministerial support. It wants Transport Scotland to help. They should remove barriers to on-street trials. They should partner with councils for these trials. The council plans to study existing crossings. This will provide local evidence for road users.