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‘PUFFINS’ HELP POOLE’S PEDESTRIANS CROSS

A new type of pedestrian crossing, known as ‘Puffin’, is being installed at the refurbished traffic signal in Ashley Cross, Lower Parkstone.

‘Puffin’, which stands for Pedestrian User Friendly Intelligent crossing, uses sensors to detect people on the crossing. The ‘thinking’ crossing gives anyone needing more time the chance to cross safely and allows the traffic to return to normal more quickly.

The new crossing also differs from the traditional pelican style with the warning red and green men sign located just above the push button, rather than on the opposite side of the road.

Richard Moore, member of the Borough of Poole’s Disabled Design Group, said: "This new crossing will improve safety at this junction by allowing additional time to cross the road for those who need it. With the new rotating knob, anyone who is blind, partially sighted or deaf will know when it is safe to cross, making it much easier for people with different types of disabilities."

Steve Tite, Traffic and Highways Manager, added: "This new system will work well for both pedestrians and drivers on this busy stretch of road. It is really sophisticated and gives more time, to anyone who may be elderly or have young children, to get across the road safely. The crossing should also reduce frustration for drivers. If the button to cross is pushed but the pedestrian moves away, the crossing will know and allow traffic to flow as normal."

Steve Tite