Youngster paves the way for safer crossings in Standish

Youngster paves the way for safer crossings in Standish

Alfie and family with Wigan Council and Bethell representatives at the Wigan Road crossing

An eleven-year-old boy concerned about the safety of a busy main road has seen his request for a pedestrian crossing become a reality.

A frequent visitor to Ashfield Park in Standish, Alfie Haywood grew increasingly concerned about crossing Wigan Road to access the park, particularly when he was on his way home from school or crossing with his family and younger sister.

Encouraged by his nan Ruth, Alfie wrote a letter to Wigan Council and Lisa Nandy MP to raise his concerns and request safer crossing, resulting in a toucan crossing being installed, along with improved road infrastructure for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists.

Alfie, a pupil at St Peter’s High School in Orrell, said: “The reason I wanted this crossing is because lots of children and families visit Ashfield Park, but because this is such a busy road, somebody might get run over and hurt, and a crossing will allow people to cross the road safely.

“I feel very proud and confident that the council listened to my idea, and I would like other children to know that they can help their community to become a better place.

“It also showed me that you don’t have to be an adult to change something; if something’s wrong you should say something about it and try and do what you can to help.”

Following the agreement between the council and local MP, the project was delivered by Bethell and funded through Section 106 allocations, which require developers to provide positive infrastructure in communities.

In addition to the toucan crossing and improved infrastructure on Wigan Road, Bethell has also improved bridleways, walking and cycling pathways around the nearby Lurdin Lane, as well as installing new street lighting, to ensure safety and accessibility is enhanced across the wider area.

Councillor Paul Kenny, portfolio holder for planning, environmental services, and transport, said: “It’s fantastic to see the completion of this pedestrian crossing in Standish, making this busy road much safer for everyone and particularly for children and families visiting the popular Ashfield Park.

“I’d like to thank Alfie for his confidence and determination in driving this important issue forward, as well as Bethell for their work on the scheme.

“The wider project makes sure that accessibility is enhanced around the area, demonstrating the council’s commitment to investing in infrastructure that supports healthier, safer, and better connected communities.”

Gary Hunt, contracts manager at Bethell, added: “We are proud to have worked in partnership with Wigan Council to deliver this important Active Travel scheme, providing long-term benefits for the local community.

“The improvements will encourage more people to walk, wheel and cycle, supporting healthier lifestyles and better connections to local parks and amenities.

“Working alongside a busy road and close to local residents, the team has worked hard to minimise disruption while maintaining pedestrian access throughout the project, ensuring the community can continue to enjoy these important local facilities.”