IMPROVEMENTS have been proposed to a busy junction due to safety concerns – as police clamp down on vehicles blocking the pavement.

Residents are being consulted on possible changes that could be made to the highway on High Road and South Row in Kells, Whitehaven.

Cumberland Council has been made aware of concerns surrounding the safety of the junction exiting South Row and on to the section of High Road near to High Road Store.

The proposal involves extending the existing junction markings to provide better visibility for vehicles exiting South Row onto High Road.

The intention is also to introduce hatched markings on the lengths leading up to the existing traffic calming, as well as removing the centre lines in an attempt to reduce the speed of vehicles.

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Copeland Police said they have received several complaints about vehicles blocking the pavement on South Row in recent months.

On May 27, four vehicles were issued with tickets for unnecessary obstruction, which carries a £30 fine. Police say they will continue to work with partners to address the issues.

Emma Williamson, deputy leader for Cumberland Council, who represents the Kells and Sandwith ward, said: “We have got a proposal in to ease some of the problems on that road. People need to feed into that consultation.

“The plan is to build the junction out a bit to stop people from parking on the corner, which makes it more visible when pulling out.

“The problem you’ve got is the school with parking and then rugby nights as well. We are just trying to make it a bit easier to pull out of that road.

“The bigger issue is inappropriate parking and people need to slow down because it’s a residential area. Children are crossing that road all the time.”

Residents are encouraged to comment on the proposal, by emailing: TrafficTeam.West@cumberland.gov.uk