Commonsense wins at pedestrian crossing
GRAFTON businessman Bob Tomlinson joins a select band of people - those who have had a win over bureaucracy.
Mr Tomlinson has been concerned there was inadequate signage on the pedestrian crossing signs in the block between Fitzroy and Pound Sts since they were installed.
"I was always worried there were not signs on both sides of the crossings," he said.
"It's one of the busiest areas of the main street and with the trees in the median strip it's easy for drivers to not notice a pedestrian.
"The crossing at Bacon St had four pedestrian signs, two in each direction, one on each side near footpaths and one on each side of the median strip."
Mr Tomlinson said it was only a matter of time before someone was seriously injured or worse.
"I have had several near misses there and many of my friends have also commented on the problem with these crossings," he said.
Mr Tomlinson contacted Clarence Valley Council, which told him the RMS had control of those decisions.
Mr Tomlinson fired off a letter to the RMS in September, without expecting too much.
But earlier this month there was a surprise for him in his mailbox.
"The RMS agreed with me," he said.
"The letter said my request fitted in with their rules and they would advise the council to install pedes- trian leg symbol signs as soon as they could.
"It's a good feeling, having the bureaucrats agree with you."
Council deputy general manager Rob Donges said the signs would be installed soon.
"We're happy to do it. There's nothing more important than making sure pedestrians are safe," he said.
