A NEW pelican crossing is to be installed on the busy A65 in Rawdon as part of a £320,000 package of spending on important safety measures across Leeds.

The crossing, in New Road Side, is close to Littlemoor Primary and en route to Benton Park Secondary, and will help children to get to and from school safely.

It is one of 11 zebra and pelican crossings planned for sites across the city, and is being welcomed by the three ward councillors for Guiseley and Rawdon.

Cllr Graham Latty said: "I am delighted this crossing has been given the green light.

"The A65 is a busy road and this stretch in particular sees a lot of children crossing, so it is very good news the safety measures, soon to be installed, will not only make the road safer for children, but will provide peace of mind to all residents crossing the road."

Cllr Pat Latty added: "The Park and Stride situated nearby means a crossing on the part of the A65 is sorely needed.

"Keeping our children safe is one of my top priorities, and I am pleased this crossing will help do just that as they cross the A65."

Cllr Paul Wadsworth said: The community will greatly benefit from this crossing.

"As well as helping access to the schools, the new pelican crossing will also help people who are trying to get to bus stops, the children’s centre and community hall, which are all nearby."

A Leeds City Council report said: "This location is close to Littlemoor Primary School and en route to Benton Park Secondary School. Consequently, the numbers of vulnerable pedestrians at the start and end of the school day are high.

"The majority of pedestrians crossing at this location are schoolchildren, some of whom use a nearby Park and Stride. The provision of a signal-controlled crossing would help facilitate walking journeys to schools, and has the potential to assist with access to bus stops and the nearby children’s centre and community hall."

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