A NEW £170,000 pedestrian crossing in Worcester remains under wraps – three months after it was installed – because of the height of a nearby hedge.

Worcestershire County Council installed the crossing across Bromwich Road, off the New Road junction, but it is not safe to use until a hedge surrounding the nearby King’s School playing fields is cut back.

Instead of cutting back the hedge, the county council has agreed to buy the small piece of land on which it grows – measuring 23 metres square – from the Cathedral for £2,000.

A spokesman for the council said it made more sense to buy the land rather than ask the landowner – the Dean and Chapter – to cut the hedge on a regular basis.

“Acquiring the land is beneficial because, in the long-term, removing this part of the hedge is safer, more practical and is better value than trimming the hedge on an on-going basis,” he said.

West Mercia Police has raised concerns about the hedge preventing motorists getting a clear view of the crossing as they approach from New Road.

Once the sale has been agreed the council will remove the hedge and reinstate a gateway into the playing fields to allow safer access for King’s School pupils.

The council spokesman said: “Both the police and county council officers agree that the hedge on the corner poses a risk in terms of visibility and acquiring the land would improve safety in the area for pedestrians, cyclist and motorists.

“Obviously, ensuring this is our priority before the crossing can go 'live'.”

Les West, Cathedral steward said: “We have agreed the sale of land, they have agreed the price and the legal people are sorting out the documents.

“They are going to reinstate the gates which will make it much safer for the pupils going into the ground.

“It is a good outcome for all parties concerned.”

It is hoped the crossing will be operating by mid October.

Colin Archer, of Malvern Road, St John’s, Worcester, regularly crosses the busy road to walk into the city centre.

The 65-year-old said: “That crossing is used by hundreds of pedestrians a day.

“I am feeling frustrated about the lack of operation of the lights because I am a pedestrian and a cyclist.”