Lib Dem Kirkby Lonsdale councillor pushes for county support for zebra crossing

Local Liberal Democrat councillor Nick Cotton is urging Cumbria County Council to back plans for a zebra crossing by Booths in Kirkby Lonsdale to make it safer for local residents.

Back in 2017, Nick allocated money from his highways budget to fund a study for the crossing and since then Kirkby Lonsdale Town Council has pledged £10,000 to the crossing and Nick has secured several other contributions.

But a recent bid for LIPs funding for a zebra crossing put forward by Kirkby Lonsdale Town Council was unsuccessful, partly as a result of a prior report from the County Council which indicated it may not be justified.

But after discussions with Nick, the Lib Dem leader of South Lakeland District Council Giles Archibald has agreed to hold a meeting with representatives from Kirkby Lonsdale Town Council and Cumbria County Council to try and get the backing of the County Council in time for the next round of LIP grants later this spring. Additional resources are also being sought to supplement any LIP funding.

Nick said: "The need for a crossing outside of Booths, especially for older residents, kids going to schools and for parents with toddlers, is something that comes up a lot on the doorstep. The concerns have increased since the County report.

"I understand why the Town Council's bid was unsuccessful this time around, but I have been encouraged by the opportunity for a second bite of the cherry. I am also working hard with Giles to secure additional funds from other sources

"There is strong local support for this - together, I am sure we can make it happen."