There has been a renewed push to shut down the footpath leading to a crossing where a woman was killed after its permanent closure was not guaranteed.

Despite pressure from Nascot councillor Mark Watkin, Hertfordshire County Council has refused to rule out reopening the crossing where 89-year-old Betty Shaer died after being hit by a van on May 20.

Her death on May 20 sparked appeals for the footpath opposite the crossing, between Courtlands Drive and Stanbury Avenue, to be closed.

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Neighbours say they had asked Hertfordshire County Council, which is responsible for roads, to install traffic lights or signs at the crossing.

They also called for trees and bushes that restrict visibility at the roadside to be cut back prior to the accident, which has since been done.

The council’s reasons for not guaranteeing closure included that it is still waiting on a police report, a feasibility study, and that the safety of the crossing could be improved by a fence.

Watford Observer: The crossing, prior to being cut back. Picture: Google Street ViewThe crossing, prior to being cut back. Picture: Google Street View (Image: Google Street View)

A spokesperson for Hertfordshire County Council said: “We can confirm that works at this location are ongoing, including the provision of a permanent fence either side of the crossing point.

“Once these works are complete the crossing will be reviewed before a decision is made as to whether it is safe to open it to the public.

“The county council’s local transport plan policies strongly encourage active travel such as walking, so decisions to remove a pedestrian facility would not be taken lightly, and a consultation process with key officers and residents would be required.”

However, Cllr Watkin has assured people in the area that he will accept nothing less than permanent closure.

He said: “While I accept that in the short term the crossing will remain closed while further reports and reviews are collated, I have made it abundantly clear that I will vehemently oppose its reopening should such a possible decision be considered.

“I fully support policies encouraging walking, but though I would understand if there is no alternative, that footpath is only about 20 feet from another footpath.”

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