The council have been able to produce and display their own signs on Riverside Park reminding dog owners of their legal responsibilities.

So surely they can produce larger signs to guide motorists across the bridge and highlight where to wait to allow visibility and space for oncoming vehicles?

I understand that 'unofficial' road signs can be used with Department of Transport permission?

Traffic flow is obviously important, but there are many general safety issues which need to be addressed.

Cyclists riding at speed on the footpath, regardless of pedestrians.

Joggers who seemingly can't stop, stepping into the road with oncoming traffic. Vehicles mounting the pavement to get through.

Also, over hanging branches, and build-up of leaves and general debris, which narrow the walking area.

Movement of people and vehicles between the activity and canoe centre, in an area which floods during heavy rain.

Deliveries to the canoe centre.

People crossing from one side of the park to the other.

People crossing Woodmill Lane to Wessex Lane.

All of this in and around a restricted area that was designed for a horse and cart.

I have lived close to Woodmill Bridge for 17 years, drive over it, and regularly walk my dog across to the Park.

I'm also an ex-cyclist, so can consider all points of view.

Traffic lights are not the solution.

In 2007, when the temporary lights were installed, drivers accelerated to get through a green light, and regularly 'tail-gated' to jump a red light.

Speeds increased dramatically, as they have over recent years.

Drivers overtaking the queue on the wrong side of the road to enter Oliver Road (which they still do), endangering those exiting.

Safety issues were raised at the time. Also in 2007, the Highways Dept, were debating the problems surrounding long vehicles and the lack of appropriate signage. 12 years on, and still no solution.

The 2018 consultation with Balfour Beatty highlighted general concern over safety issues, regardless of opinion on lights.

Stress, anxiety and anger spill out everywhere now - people trying to get from A to B as quickly as possible, and anyone who gets in the way is suddenly an irritant, the enemy.

We all need to support each other, otherwise what's the alternative?

The situation can no longer be ignored, or I fear there will be serious consequences.

S.M. Pope

Southampton