David Archer from North Leigh has written a letter criticising a number of different road safety measures.

We are told that the on-going blanket reduction of speed limits, across towns and villages throughout Oxfordshire is to reduce casualties and deaths on our roads by 2050.

In the Burford Road, Witney, near the Windrush pub, there is a very expensive pedestrian crossing, that cost around £200k, that has never been activated since being putting place over 18 months ago.

A fairly substantial amount in the name of safety. Having contacted various county councillors, who either weren’t interested or have tried to get the crossing activated; but failed in their pursuit.

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I sent a letter to the leader of Oxfordshire County Council in March.

The reply was very definite that activation day was April 4. I am now thinking that it is April 4 2050 as the lights remain inactive.

Why do I think this? Because it would seem it’s acceptable to have inactive lights installed, until a number of casualties are recorded at this point.

At which time the lights will be activated to meet the 2050 zero casualties targets.

Similarly the profusion of 20mph signs, popping up everywhere are something of a safety statement that’s not working, turning thousands of drivers who have diligently kept clean licences for 30-50 years plus into law breakers, the Archbishop of Canterbury among them being 3mph over in a 20mph limit.

David Archer

North Leigh

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About the author 

Andy is the Trade and Tourism reporter for the Oxford Mail and you can sign up to his newsletters for free here. 

He joined the team more than 20 years ago and he covers community news across Oxfordshire.

His Trade and Tourism newsletter is released every Saturday morning. 

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