Residents living on Hurdis Road in Shirley are calling on Solihull Council to install a pedestrian crossing near Shirley Park, with approximately 400 people signing a petition over road safety concerns.
Campaigners describe the crossing as "long overdue" due to ongoing confusion between pedestrians and motorists at the park entrance. Currently, only a speed bump exists, leading to dangerous situations where some drivers stop for pedestrians while others drive straight through.
Alan Wilson, a 20-year resident of the road, said: "A crossing is definitely long overdue. I've signed petitions, the council have never done anything."
Residents report that traffic has "increased threefold" as drivers use the road as a rat run to avoid Stratford Road, making it increasingly dangerous. Many describe near-misses and say pedestrians are "putting their lives in their hands" when crossing.
The issue escalated after a serious accident on May 9, 2025, which left the community "very shaken." Wendie Tilt presented a petition signed by around 400 residents to April's full council meeting, highlighting that the entrance is used daily by vulnerable residents, including young children and elderly people.
Councillor Ken Hawkins, cabinet portfolio holder for environment and infrastructure, acknowledged the concerns and promised that "officers will revisit the site and have a look at what can be done," despite previous assessments finding visibility adequate.
