Halo lights boost crossing safety

A PILOT safety scheme to install state-of-the-art LED lighting in Royton and Shaw is the immediate result of a review of zebra crossings in the borough.

Work will begin this week to install and test the effectiveness of new “halo” lighting at two sites, in Milnrow Road and Rochdale Road.

Last month Oldham Council announced a borough-wide review of crossings in response to public concern following the death of Annalise Holt (12) in Milnrow Road on December 17. Work was due to start there today.

One beacon will be moved closer to the crossing, the posts will be enhanced, and an assessment of the street lighting nearby will also be undertaken.

Councillor Dave Hibbert, Cabinet member for environment and housing, said: “I am delighted to see the installation of this lighting get under way so soon. Road safety is extremely important for us and it is important that we have a pilot scheme to test how effective LED-style lighting could be at crossing sites like this.”

As part of this pilot scheme, the Belisha globes at the crossing outside Royton Town Hall will also be replaced with LED beacons.