A ROAD safety champion has welcomed the news that traffic light timings could be changed.

Councillor Jim MacLeod says he is happy that local authority officials are looking at the sequencing in place at a number of crossings in Inverclyde.

Mr MacLeod says that trying to cross a busy road in the time given can be challenging for many elderly and disabled people, as well as parents with prams.

He said: "I have raised the issue in the past few years with council officials that many traffic lights in Inverclyde need to have the crossing times increased on them.

"This would make it safer for disabled and older people to cross busy roads.

"After I raised the topic again with officials at a recent briefing meeting I was pleased to learn that a number of traffic lights are now being replaced and crossing times increased.

"As well as ensuring there are appropriate timings at traffic lights they need to be fitted with sound activated systems and tactile paving built on dipped pavements at crossings for people who are blind or visually impaired.

Cllr MacLeod says he would also like to see changes on main roads like the A8, pictured, which are controlled by the government's transport agency.

He told the Telegraph: "There are many busy roads throughout the district, including ones on our trunk roads.

"The trunk roads are the responsibility of Transport Scotland.

"One of those busy crossings is in my ward at Port Glasgow at the Coronation Park.

"It is tricky, you almost have to be an Olympic sprinter to cross the road in time before the traffic lights change.

"As we see more people being encouraged to walk, cycle and wheel as part of Inverclyde's Active Travel plans it is imperative that everyone's needs are safely met whether it is elderly, disabled, young people or guardians pushing prams or buggies around our district."