Middleton parking spaces could be lost in Grimshaw Lane safety plan

Grimshaw Lane safety scheme sparks objections over parking loss

# Parking spaces could be lost as Middleton road safety scheme faces objections Plans to make a dangerous road in Middleton safer have faced objections from residents concerned about the loss of parking spaces. The proposed changes on Grimshaw Lane follow a history of speeding, crashes and near misses, with the road subject to a 30mph speed limit. The road has been the scene of a number of incidents, including the death of 78-year-old Terence Lewis James after he was hit by a car on September 30, 2024. The proposed safety scheme includes three pedestrian crossing islands, improvements to bus stops and longer double yellow lines at blind spots. The changes are designed to reduce bottlenecks around junctions, prevent obstructive parking and make it easier and safer for pedestrians to cross Grimshaw Lane and nearby roads. However, the proposals would mean the loss of around 10 parking spaces in the areas affected by the improvements. A council report said 13 objections were raised during consultation, with some residents unhappy about losing parking to accommodate the longer double yellow lines and bus stop improvements. Council officers believe the relatively small loss of parking is justified by the safety improvements, particularly for pedestrians and bus passengers. The council report said buses are sometimes obstructed by parked vehicles, making it difficult to provide level access at bus stops. It also highlighted difficulties faced by pedestrians, including vulnerable road users, when crossing Grimshaw Lane and the wide adjoining side roads. Some residents have raised concerns about how the changes could affect people with limited mobility. Ann Lewis, who has lived on the road for years, said she was worried about losing parking near her home and the impact this could have when carrying shopping. Other residents have backed the proposed parking restrictions. Michael Jackson, who lives on David’s Farm Close, said parked cars can make it difficult to see the road when leaving his street and argued that double yellow lines should extend further from the junction. Residents have also raised concerns about the lack of suitable crossing points. Neil Eaves, who lives opposite a location where a car crashed, said he had witnessed several accidents and believed proper crossings were needed, particularly to make the road safer for children. Councillor Dylan Williams, the Middleton East ward representative, has campaigned for safety improvements on Grimshaw Lane for years. He said he had listened to residents and believed the majority of the public supported the scheme. The Middleton Township Committee is due to consider the proposals on September 17. If the scheme does not go ahead, the £133,655 allocated for the project will be returned to Transport for Greater Manchester.