A PETITION calling for a signalised crossing on a busy Kilmacolm road has not 'convinced' councillors – but they agree further safety measures are needed following a campaign by residents.

A plea for the specific safety measure on Lochwinnoch Road, which was submitted to roads bosses by Lesley Pieri, was heard by a committee of councillors.

Hundreds of people signed the petition, expressing concern about the number of vehicles in the village and risk to children and the elderly as they try to cross the busy road.

But data analysing accidents led to officials deciding against a crossing a move and they were backed by elected members.

Gordon Leitch, of the council’s roads department said: “In summary, we don’t think that it justifies a signalised crossing across Lochwinnoch Road,”

“We’ve got concerns that if we did put one in, it maybe wouldn’t be called [upon] that often and then when it was the drivers might not take cognisance of it and drive through it.”

On the speed of traffic on Lochwinnoch Road, officers said the average was 15.8mph.

They also pointed out that the installation of a signalised crossing would remove up to six parking spaces in front of the shops.

Additionally, the council is already progressing mandatory 20mph speed limits in village and town centres, including Kilmacolm.

Council leader Stephen McCabe said: “I’m not convinced of the practicalities of installing a pelican crossing because I think it does create issues in terms of the length of the road, the back up and potential loss of parking spaces.

“But I do have sympathy with the petitioners in that it is a difficult place to cross at times.

"It’s a dangerous place to cross."

But petitions committee colleague Councillor James Daisley said the crossing should be rejected outright.

He said: “Having listened to everything that everyone has said and taken into account both sides, I feel that the petitioner, in their statement, doesn’t seem to be giving enough factual information or a compelling case for this to be taken forward.

"Whereas I believe that the officers have given a very compelling case for it not to be taken forward.”

While Councillor Chris Curley, the committee's convener, was against the introduction of a signalised crossing, he said he felt there was a case for reviewing the measures in place on the street as part of ongoing works to enforce a 20mph speed limit.

He successfully tabled an amendment which said the issue merited 'further action' and should be forwarded on to roads and environmental managers.

They will now be asked to bring forward a report to the next meeting of the council environment and regeneration committee.