SCHOOLCHILDREN and locals are being put at risk as a zebra crossing in Bradford on Avon has not been opened for almost two months while it waits for Belisha beacons to be installed.

Painted stripes for the crossing on Winsley Road by Conigre Hill and commissioned by the Wiltshire Council, was finished on September 30 but the electrical works still are not completed.

The delay has angered St Laurence School, which is deeply concerned for pupils’ safety, and local people.

Although there are barriers on either side of the road, no beacons are in place: confused pedestrians frequently use the crossing but drivers are under no legal obligation to stop there.

Residents living nearby are worried because pedestrians can see the clearly marked zebra crossing, which was completed in three days, but drivers cannot as there are no warning beacons.

In a letter to parents and carers the school’s director of finance and operations Emma Sandberg said: “Our concerns are for the health and safety of our students. I have raised serious concerns with the council about the length of time it has been since the crossing was installed.”

Sian, a Year 7 pupil at the school, said: “I feel really sorry for the people walking across here every day. Friends of mine get really scared trying to cross.” Many St Laurence pupils who walk to school will be able to use the new crossing safely when it is opened.

A Wiltshire Council spokesman admitted that the process was taking a bit longer than they had hoped.

“We apologise for the length of time it is taking to complete the work, however the original beacons sent to us were faulty. Replacements have been ordered, and they will be installed as soon as they are delivered,” he added.

“In the meantime we would encourage people to continue to exercise caution when they cross the road at this point.”

“I think it is disgusting that nothing has been done,” said Carol White, of Ashley Close, who is on crutches. “The cars won’t stop and all the confusion is very dangerous.”

Co-owner of London based consultancy Burtt-Jones and Brewer LLP owner and a resident of the town, Steve Brewer, said: “Lots of people are dismayed that it’s taken so long. To take two months is a bit extreme. I also work in London and in that time I have seen a skyscraper built.

“We’re struggling to see how the council can justify the delay for something so simple. They keep coming up with excuses. This needs to be completed before something bad happens.”

The installation of the crossing, which should be ready for use shortly according to the council, cost around £30,000.

This included widening the footway, moving the bus stop, resurfacing part of the road and fitting new street lighting.