A new zebra crossing on Ethel Road in Leicester has sparked a heated debate among residents, with opinions divided over its safety and effectiveness. The crossing, completed in December 2025 at a cost of £58,000, serves as a vital link for locals visiting nearby shops, including the popular Tesco superstore, as well as for students commuting to and from the two schools in the area.
However, concerns were raised almost immediately after its installation, with the primary issue being the lack of adequate lighting. On social media platforms like Facebook, locals expressed their worries, highlighting the potential dangers of pedestrians being invisible to drivers due to the absence of proper illumination.
One resident, who shared their experience on Leicester City Council's Love Clean Streets app, stated, "I was almost hit by a vehicle on the zebra crossing. The driver didn't see me because the street light adjacent to the crossing wasn't working. I reported this months ago, and it's still not fixed." Another concerned citizen added, "Someone may get hurt if this issue isn't addressed promptly."
Despite these worries, when the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) took to the streets to gather opinions, most pedestrians expressed their support for the new crossing. Mr. Gangi, a 44-year-old resident, said, "Initially, it was a bit tricky to cross, but now that the lights are fixed, it's much safer. I'm all for it."
Another anonymous pedestrian shared, "I feel it's safe. I wouldn't cross anywhere else on this street."
However, not everyone is convinced. Audrey Russell, a 68-year-old resident, cautioned, "You have to be very careful when crossing. One side might let you go, but the other zooms by without stopping. You need to cross with caution."
While the council has confirmed that the approaches to the crossing meet recognized safety standards in terms of lighting, they have acknowledged a recent fault with one nearby streetlight, which they assure will be repaired soon.
The spokesperson for the council added, "The new crossing features advanced LED technology to internally illuminate the crossing posts and beacon. Additionally, the carpet of the crossing is also lit to ensure maximum visibility for pedestrians."
So, is this new crossing a step towards safer roads, or does it still pose a threat to pedestrians? The debate continues, and we want to hear your thoughts. Do you think the crossing is safe, or do you share the concerns raised by some residents? Let us know in the comments!
