CORNWALL Councillor for Launceston Central, Alex Folkes, welcomed Cornwall Cabinet Member for Transportation and Highways, Graeme Hicks, and Cornwall Council Road Safety Engineer, Peter Moore, to Launceston on Tuesday morning for a walk and talk about the issue of safety on Dutson Road.

Dutson Road has been the subject of much criticism, with its narrow track and unconventional pavement layout leading people to call it "a death trap."

Cllr Folkes pointed out the lack of pavement, excessive speed of some drivers in a 30mph zone and the quite scary sight of a lorry squeezing between parked cars and high walls.

Mr Hicks said: "I completely understand what Alex is saying and he is clearly looking into issues of local concern.

"Unfortunately, we could go to any town across the county and we will find, somewhere, the same situation as we have here.

"It comes down to money at the end of the day. Finances are tight as it is and are getting tighter, with more cuts to be introduced next year."

When the potential costs of any crossings were posed to Mr Moore, he said they would be dependent on what would need to be bought and put in place.

He said: "If you are looking at putting in a new system, including lighting, then it could be around £60,000. If the footway is in good condition and visibility is already good then you can cut that price."

Cllr Folkes made clear his worry that children are at risk, as there is more than one part of the road that needs crossing and in some places no pavement at all.

He said: "I would hope there is nowhere else pupils have to walk to school between cars parked in a built up area."

Mr Hicks also suggested a route survey be taken place in order to document the way children are making their way to school in the area.

Dutson Terrace resident, Tony Lea, expressed great concern and unease at the risk of danger to both pedestrians and drivers when using the street.

He said: "Why are there places with flashing lights and crossings barely within a domestic area when we have had around eight accidents in two years on this road?

"We attended a meeting in February to discuss safety issues on the road. I was annoyed to be told about ambulances when accidents are happening here.

"I have had my arm nearly broken by a car travelling down this road. If I want to walk the dogs I have the problem of this blind corner and vehicles hammering down the road."

See this week's 'Post' for a full report.