Audible pedestrian signals to be installed

The potential hazard posed to a group of visually-impaired Riverton residents by a busy road intersection has prompted Transport Minister Pam Beggs to order the installation of audible pedestrian signals at the site. 

Mrs Beggs said she had been made aware of concerns that residents of the Canning Lodge were encountering difficulties in crossing the junction of High Road and Herald Avenue. 

"It was put to me that some of the residents were either becoming housebound through fear of crossing the road, or placing themselves at risk by doing so - a situation that is obviously unacceptable," Mrs Beggs said. 

"The Main Roads Department has investigated the matter and discussions have taken place with the Association for the Blind on the needs of sight-impaired pedestrians." 

Mrs Beggs said that as a result of these discussions she had approved the installation of pedestrian walk signals with audible devices at the intersection. 

The facility will be installed early in the new financial year. 

"Hopefully this will improve safety and help maintain the independence of many of the Lodge residents."