MOVES to install a pelican crossing on a road where a schoolgirl was hit by a bus are a step closer following a public meeting by concerned residents.

Twelve-year-old Scarlet Taziker was hit by a bus when she was on her way home from Turton School, while trying to cross Turton Road, Bromley Cross, near Shady Lane, on January 21.

Cllrs Samantha Connor, Stuart Haslam, and Bolton North East MP, Mark Logan, met last Thursday with members of the Turton Road Crossing Group, which is calling for the road to be made safer for pedestrians.

Cllr Connor said: “We identified the issues and discussed a preferred location for the potential crossing.

“Cllr Haslam is reporting back to the relevant officers and will update us as soon as possible.”

The accident prompted Kathryn Henderson to create a petition to try and make it safer for children to cross Turton Road.

Miss Henderson said: “Near Rigby Lane has been suggested as an area that the pelican crossing could go.

“This is also close to the schools in the area too.

“I feel happy about the outcome, but I just hope it doesn’t take a long time.”

Mr Logan added: “Speeding and pedestrian safety was a key concern of Bromley Cross residents during my last community crime forum.

“I will continue to work with Greater Manchester Police to catch vehicles speeding on our roads.

“The installation of a pelican crossing near Turton Road must be given serious consideration.”

Council highways and transport chief Cllr Stuart Haslam, said: “I was very sorry to hear about the accident on Turton Road and send my best wishes to the girl for a speedy recovery.

“I met with residents of the area on Thursday, and the petition which has now over two thousand signatures, clearly shows the high level of concern in the area.

“Road safety is our number one priority and it is something I take very seriously.

“Once the council has received the petition, highways officers will be asked to prepare a report with options for consideration.”

You can find out more on the official Turton Road Crossing Facebook page.

Sign up to the petition here.