A CONTROVERSIAL plan to place a new zebra crossing on one of Witney’s most congested streets has been approved.

Oxfordshire County Council yesterday agreed to put the Bridge Street crossing at the road’s southwest end, before the Mill Street mini roundabout.

It originally proposed to put it near the middle of the street, but the council said concerns about air pollution and parking led to a rethink.

There were mixed opinions on the decision, with some residents claiming the crossing would now be pointless.

County council officers insisted it was “a difficult decision” but argued the new location was the best compromise.

The final decision was made by cabinet member for environment David Nimmo Smith, who said: “We are not going to satisfy everyone on this, but I am persuaded by officers.”

Concerns had been raised during consultation that the original location would lead to a loss of parking spaces during evenings and weekends.

Officers also said the buildings on either side of the proposed crossing would lead to a “Grand Canyon effect” on air quality, where pollution from traffic hold-ups would be trapped.

At the new position on the bridge, officers said the River Windrush – which passes underneath – would help to disperse emissions.

Speaking after the decision, Crawley Road resident Duncan Wood said: “This decision completely ignores a petition backed by more than 400 people who wanted the crossing at the other end. They may as well not put it in.”

The revised scheme has been backed by Witney Town Council and West Oxfordshire District Council.