Burnham and Highbridge town councillors have this week supported proposals for a new pedestrian crossing to be introduced on Burnham-On-Sea seafront outside Sunspot Amusements on the North Esplanade.
Councillors considered the request during a Planning Committee meeting on Monday (September 21st) and agreed to write to Somerset Council asking for the proposal to be formally investigated in order to improve safety at what is already a well‑used crossing point.
Sunspot Amusements says the location is frequently used by families, older visitors and people with limited mobility due to the dropped kerbs on both sides of the road and a matching gap in the promenade’s chain and bollards.
A Sunspot spokesperson adds that traffic levels and vehicle speeds during busy holiday periods can make crossing difficult, with occasional instances of speeding vehicles accelerating along The Esplanade.
They say a formal crossing — whether a zebra crossing or another design recommended by highways officers — would reduce the risk of accidents and provide a clearer, safer link between the promenade and the businesses on the landward side of the road.Â
Sunspot Amusements also has indicated it would be prepared to consider funding both the installation and ongoing maintenance of a crossing, subject to costs and agreement on the details.
Councillors were generally in support of the application. Cllr Peter Clayton told Monday’s meeting it would help attract more people from the seafront into the High Street to use shops. Several councillors also they would also like other proposed crossings near local schools to be considered.
The Town Council will now write to Somerset Council to begin discussions on the proposal.
