Resurfacing works on Rue des Landes, Le Bourg and Le Chene – the main road passing through Forest to the airport – start next week. The four-week road closure will see traffic have to take a three-mile diversion around the airport.
The three informal crossing points are across La Rue des Croisee (which leads to Petit Bot), one across Le Bourg that heads up to Vue de L’Eglise, and one across the main road to Forest Stores, close to existing bollards.
A THS spokesman said these would not be formal zebra crossings and there would be no signage.
‘There are already many informal crossings across the island and we have promoted them on previous works such as Braye Road,’ he said.
‘They are installed to improve accessibility, especially for those with visual impairments or mobility challenges, typically where a pavement ends at a junction or at particularly busy vehicular access points. They have flush kerbing and tactile paving. Motorists still have priority, with those using the crossing still needing to ensure the roadway is clear before crossing.’
Forest senior constable Wayne Bertrand said the parish had not been consulted about the crossings.
‘But it is quite a busy area,’ he said. ‘So we would welcome anything that makes roads safer, as long as its done sympathetically.’
The roadworks have prompted frustration from local businesses especially as the road was also closed for a month last year.
THS said it acknowledged there was a significant number of businesses, schools, organisations and attractions along with the airport that will be impacted by the work.
‘We are grateful for their understanding ahead of and during the works, but we hope this will improve accessibility and general travel infrastructure for the area,’ the spokesman said.
‘These works are taking place to allow a full resurfacing of the road, which when completed will be placed under a three-year embargo – meaning further scheduled works should not be permitted during that time, outside of emergency roadworks.’
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