Council criticised as sign obstructs bus stop in Leighton Buzzard

Central Bedfordshire Council (CBC) has been criticised for leaving a road sign in the way of a bus stop in Leighton Buzzard.

Following the installation of a new footpath on Leighton Road this summer – involving controversial roadworks lasting around two months – residents were left frustrated to see a road sign left in the way of the Apex Park bus stop, Leighton Road.

The sign and SLOW marking near the bus stop. Image: Leighton Buzzard Lib Dem group.

placeholder image — The sign and SLOW marking near the bus stop. Image: Leighton Buzzard Lib Dem group.

Concerns were raised as it could cause access issues, particularly for the disabled, cyclists or families with prams. A 'SLOW' marking (for motorists) had also been painted onto the path instead of the road.

Central Bedfordshire Council (CBC) says that the road sign was supposed to be relocated as part of the scheme – and that it is now arranging for the sign and the SLOW marking to be removed "as soon as possible".

The remaining posts and the SLOW road marking at the bus stop. Image supplied.

A resident, who wished to remain anonymous, claimed: "You probably can't get a wheelchair or a bike between the posts. You have got these massive posts and then literally 30cm behind it, you've got the bus stop.

"There's just been no thought.”

The footpath was installed so residents travelling out of town didn’t have to walk on the verge or the road to access the Apex Park bus stop.

The Leighton Buzzard Lib Dem group, added: “It is ridiculous that the sign by the bus stop has not been moved and we have asked the council to address this urgently.

“The new footpath should help those on mobility scooters, bicycles, and with buggies access public transport and leisure facilities safely. The sign’s location completely negates this and it needs to be moved.

“This stretch of footpath was long overdue to be completed. For too long residents have had to risk their safety by walking on a busy main road.”

A spokesman for CBC said: “We recognise that the positioning of this sign is not suitable, particularly for wheelchair users and others with mobility needs, and we’re sorry for the inconvenience caused.

“The sign was in place before the new footway was constructed and was due to be relocated as part of the scheme, but this was delayed while issues around land ownership were worked through. We are now arranging for the sign and the 'SLOW' marking to be removed as soon as possible."

The LBO has asked the council if further roadworks will be needed while the sign and the SLOW marking are removed – and whether the SLOW marking will now be repainted onto the road.