Kidbrooke residents are demanding immediate action to address safety concerns at a busy junction following a tragic accident last week. A woman in her 60s lost her life after being hit by a motorbike at the intersection of Kidbrooke Park Road and Pegler Square. This incident has highlighted the dangers that residents face when crossing the road in the area, with many describing it as a ‘lethal trap’.
Data from Transport for London (TfL) reveals that there have been two other fatalities on Kidbrooke Park Road since 2022, indicating a longstanding issue with road safety in the area. Charlie Fancy, a local resident, shared her concerns about the high speed of vehicles in the area, especially near the junction with Pegler Square. She emphasized the need for better management of crossings along Kidbrooke Park Road to ensure the safety of pedestrians, especially those with young children.
In response to the community’s outcry, Labour councillor Sandra Bauer has initiated a petition calling for speed calming measures to be implemented at the junction. The petition has garnered over 300 signatures so far, reflecting widespread support for improved safety measures in the area. Cllr Bauer emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that residents cannot afford to wait for long-term solutions while lives are at risk.
Residents living near the junction have reported ongoing concerns about the noise and speed of traffic passing through the area. Cllr Bauer suggested the possibility of narrowing the road to reduce the volume of traffic and enhance pedestrian safety. The aim is to prevent further tragedies and ensure that families in Kidbrooke can navigate the area without fear of accidents.
TfL has expressed condolences to the family and friends of the victim and has pledged to collaborate with the police on investigating the collision. Penny Rees from TfL reiterated the organization’s commitment to Vision Zero, which aims to eliminate road deaths and serious injuries in London. By working closely with law enforcement and community stakeholders, TfL hopes to identify the root causes of accidents like the one that occurred in Kidbrooke and implement effective measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The tragic loss of life at the Kidbrooke junction has sparked a renewed sense of urgency among residents and local officials to address road safety issues in the area. Through collaborative efforts between the community, council representatives, and transportation authorities, steps can be taken to enhance safety measures, minimize risks, and create a more secure environment for all road users in Kidbrooke. It is crucial that concerns raised by residents are taken seriously and that concrete actions are implemented swiftly to prevent further tragedies on Kidbrooke Park Road.
