‘Covid-compliant’ pedestrian crossing installed in Chesterfield

A touch-free pedestrian crossing has been installed in Chesterfield.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

It has been introduced on Saltergate as part of a trial by Derbyshire County Council (DCC).

Pedestrians can hold their hand under the black box instead of pushing the button.

The hands-free crossing has been installed at Saltergate in Chesterfield. Pictures by Ed Fordham.The hands-free crossing has been installed at Saltergate in Chesterfield. Pictures by Ed Fordham.
The hands-free crossing has been installed at Saltergate in Chesterfield. Pictures by Ed Fordham.
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

A DCC spokesperson said: “We’re trialling hands-free technology originally developed to help people with sight and other impairments.

“As this involves the crossings being activated without the need to touch the buttons there are also benefits with regards to Covid safety.

“It’s being introduced at a crossing at the junction on Saltergate in Chesterfield and others around the county where road safety improvements or crossing refurbishments were already planned.

“If the trial is successful, we will look at the potential for introducing this technology on more pedestrian crossings in Derbyshire.”

It has been installed as part of a trial by Derbyshire County Council.It has been installed as part of a trial by Derbyshire County Council.
It has been installed as part of a trial by Derbyshire County Council.
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Ed Fordham, a Liberal Democrat councillor on Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “It’s a great piece of good technology which will help to reassure residents and visitors to the town that we are putting their safety first.”

A message from Phil Bramley, Derbyshire Times editor

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription at www.localsubsplus.co.uk or buying a paper.