It was worked out years ago that the safest approach to road safety was to have a dedicated road for traffic, a dedicated pavement for pedestrians and proper rules for cyclists.

Everyone stayed in their dedicated area and safety was never a problem.

Except in Southend, where it’s a case of a free for all.

Let’s not bother with roads, pavements or crossings, let’s all just wander about. Someone will no doubt stop, or not.

Any fool who says it’s all in the guidelines must need their bumps feeling.

S Pakenham
Eastern Avenue
Southend

...With all the controversy about the shared space for pedestrians and motorists at City Beach and Victoria station, may I ask exactly what the rules are for the conduct of pedestrians and motorists in this matter, as there appears to be nothing in the Highway Code.

Oh, I’ve just realised the answer. When a pedestrian is injured or killed it will be the motorist who is automatically blamed and prosecuted.

I feel especially sorry for bus and taxi drivers who will be automatically blamed for any injuries or fatalities, and hence lose their livelihoods.

Raymond Barker
Southchurch Boulevard
Southend