Work to begin on new crossing at scene of pensioner's death (From Wandsworth Guardian)

Work to begin on new crossing at scene of John Chivers's death in Mitcham Road, Tooting

8:00am Sunday 10th March 2013 in News

New traffic lights at a "dangerous" crossing near Amen Corner have been welcomed.

In 2009, the Tooting community joined forces and campaigned for a new crossing in Mitcham Road, outside St Boniface Church, after pensioner John Chivers, 84, was hit by a bus and killed there in November 2009.

The campaign was the brainchild of late Father Ernest Bonvini, from St Boniface, who started a petition which generated 1,000 signatures.

Tooting MP Sadiq Khan campaigned with Father Bonvini to press for the new crossing.

Mr Khan said: "While the campaign began as the result of a tragic accident, the local community, especially the congregation of St Boniface Church should be very proud of our achievement.

"I would also like to pay tribute to late Father Bonvini, who led the campaign on behalf of his congregation at St Boniface Church and local residents, to make our community safer.

"Thanks to a great local campaign we will finally have a safe crossing on what has been a very dangerous road."

Gloria Benson, who has lived in the area for 20 years, said: "It's shows what a community can do if they put their mind to it.

"I've heard about so many accidents there over the years and it's a great relief to hear something is being done."

Wandsworth Council has confirmed that work will begin on the new crossing next week.