Tragic death of lollipop man prompts installation of new pedestrian crossing

By Joe Coughlan, Local Democracy Reporter

Plans have been revealed to add a pedestrian crossing outside a Bexley school after its lollipop man died in a road collision.

Bexley council wants to create the crossing in Hurst Road outside Old Bexley C of E Primary School.

A petition, signed by 2,335 people, asking the council to add a crossing in Hurst Road was started after the school’s lollipop man, Gordon Jeffrey, died in a collision in March 2021.

The 72-year-old, who had worked at the school for three years, was hit by a van in Bourne Road while cycling to work, and reportedly died at the scene.

The topic was discussed at a cabinet meeting for Bexley council on February 22.

Conservative councillor Richard Diment, cabinet member for places, said at the meeting that the new crossing in Hurst Road is one of four planned for the borough, with other schemes planned outside Belmont Primary School, St Fidelis Catholic Primary School and Northumberland Heath Primary School.

Cllr Diment said: “Staff shortages in highways have delayed progress on this work but I am very pleased to say that significant progress has been made in the last few months and detailed designs have been prepared for an initial tranche of four schemes.”

The cabinet member said that a road safety audit was being carried out ahead of the crossing being added, followed by a consultation with ward councillors and relevant stakeholders. He added that the council was aiming for the crossing to be implemented during the school summer holidays this year.

Conservative councillor Cameron Smith, representing the St Mary’s and St James ward, said that road users were often seen driving too fast along Hurst Road, adding: “I’m thrilled the council has listened to our campaign and agreed to install a pedestrian crossing outside the school this year.

“It’s a serious step toward improving road safety in Bexley Village, where we have seen a few reckless individuals driving dangerously through our community.”

Conservative councillor Kurtis Christoforides, also representing the St Mary’s and St James ward, said: “A new pedestrian crossing on Hurst Road will help keep children safe as they travel to and from one of the largest primary schools in the borough.

“I am delighted that together with residents, parents, school and faith leaders. and local businesses, we have built a strong case for action and the council has listened and agreed with us.”

Pictured top: Hurst Road outside Old Bexley C of E Primary School (Picture: Google Street View)