Lack of pedestrian crossing makes new bus station dangerous, say travellers

Lack of pedestrian crossings on Smith Sreet makes bus station dangerous

The new Rochdale bus station, which officially opened in November 2013, is facing criticism after travellers pointed out that there is no safe area to cross at the front of the station.

The station opened to a very positive reaction, however, after two months use the lack of pedestrian crossings at its front entrance and exits on Smith Street is causing serious concern.

One traveller who contacted Rochdale Online said: “The new bus station lacks crossing points at entry points and exits to the bus station. Just observe for yourselves the many near misses. It's only a matter of time before a fatality occurs.”

Other comments passed to Rochdale Online when we visited the bus station included: “It’s dangerous” and “I think it will become a problem when the trams start running and there are more people about.”

The supervisor on duty at the bus station said: “It has been brought up with us before but it is not something we can do anything about. It is a council issue.”

A spokesperson for Rochdale Borough Council said: “We are currently reviewing the pedestrian crossing facilities around Smith Street; this is in conjunction with Transport for Greater Manchester and other statutory stakeholders.”

A spokesperson for Transport For Greater Manchester added: “TfGM and the council are aware that some users of the new Interchange have requested that a pedestrian crossing facility be provided on Smith Street. As with any new facility, we are keeping the new pedestrian access arrangements under regular review, with a view to ensuring that any further physical measures that might be required are identified.

“As part of this ongoing review, particular attention is being paid to the links across Smith Street between the interchange and the new Metrolink stop, which is due to be brought into passenger service this year.”