PENSIONERS are benefiting from a new £10,000 crossing facility in Upper Gornal.

People using Upper Gornal Pensioners Club in Kent Street had raised concerns about crossing the busy road due to speeding traffic.

Centre user Betty Williams approached councillors Keiran Casey and Adam Aston to see what could be done and was delighted when Dudley Council installed a new pedestrian refuge.

She said: "We were having big problems with crossing the road, particularly the elderly residents that came to the pensioners club.

"When we contacted Adam and Keiran they got on to the council straight away to find out what more could be done to help and they have both pushed this all the way.

"We are very grateful to them both for securing the funding to get this done and I am sure this will make a big difference, particularly for people trying to cross the road for the club, the bus stops and other local amenities."

Cllr Casey said it was a "great example" of councillors and residents working together, adding: "When Betty contacted me and Adam we wanted to get something done as quickly as possible to improve safety along the road, so we are both very happy we have been able to help."

Cllr Aston added: "We know how concerned residents are about crossing this road, particularly at very busy times, so it's great to see these new measures being put in.

“Fingers crossed this new pedestrian refuge will help improve safety for people crossing and hopefully reduce the speed of traffic using the road as well."