Next Mayor must act on Angel crossing, says Bridget Fox

10.22.00am GMT Wed 12th Mar 2008

Liberal Democrat campaigner Bridget Fox is calling on London's Mayoral candidates to listen to local people and act on the dangerous Angel crossing.

The crossing, between Angel tube and Liverpool Road, is used by thousands of pedestrians every day. In 2004 Bridget Fox launched a campaign to get the crossing redesigned; thousands of people signed her petition, and she got the backing of Islington Council. But as TfL are responsible for this crossing, it needs action from the Mayor.

Bridget says, "Ken Livingstone has had 8 years as Mayor to sort this out, but nothing has changed. Everyone who knows the Angel, knows this crossing is a nightmare. The wait between crossing times is too long, the pedestrian island is too small, the railings are dangerous for cyclists, and vehicles are still passing when the green man comes on. "

Ken Livingstone suggested closing Liverpool Road to traffic, but Bridget disagrees. "Ken Livingstone is ignoring local views. His idea would increase the north-south traffic on Upper Street, making it harder not easier to cross. Closing Liverpool Road would also route more local traffic through Barnsbury; that's not what local residents want. And what about the bus routes along Liverpool Road? It's a crazy idea. We need a new Mayor with a new approach."

Bridget is calling for a re-designed crossing to the north of the Liverpool Road junction. Bridget says "That would avoid conflict with traffic from Liverpool Road and make it easier for people catching the bus."

Now she's urging voters to ensure that London's future Mayor will listen and act, to make the Angel crossing safer for everyone.

Brian Paddick and Bridget Fox want a safer Islington

"Brian Paddick knows Islington and has listened very positively to our views on Angel crossing. It's time for a fresh approach."