A petition has been launched to change a roundabout described as like the 'wacky races' in Gwersyllt.

Urgent action has been called for to improve the dangerous mini roundabout at Dodds Lane/Hope St/High St in Gwersyllt, over claims some pedestrians don't feel safe crossing the road.

Local residents and regular visitors to Gwersyllt shopping centre and other local facilities have identified the whole area as needing an urgent traffic assessment, and changes to be made as a priority.

Local Plaid Cymru campaigner Pete Howell, with the help of local resident Paul Dolton, has started an online petition, and a campaign to highlight the risks.

The Leader: Community campaigner Pete Howell at the busy junctionCommunity campaigner Pete Howell at the busy junction

Mr Howell said: "This junction has become busier due to the vibrant shopping centre, primary school, Lidl and train station access all being nearby. It's a real hotspot and an accident waiting to happen. The online petition has been signed by dozens of people already and we are requesting urgent risk assessments and action before the inevitable happens."

His call has been backed by several local residents, including Mr Dolton who said: "I cross here everyday with my children and wheelchair-bound partner and we really don't feel safe shopping or going to church when crossing. I think it could really help the elderly also."

A mother added: "I struggle everyday taking my son to school. We have had some near misses so many times. It is only a matter of time before someone is seriously hurt."

Mr Howell added: "As a relatively easy way of reducing risks for both drivers and pedestrians, we propose:

  • A zebra crossing on Dodds Lane to help with people crossing to the shopping centre
  • All four roads to the junction to have a 20 mph speed limit
  • For the roundabout to be repurposed as it is hardly visible due to large lorries driving straight over it
  • Road markings to be painted as they are non-existent."

The petition will be taken to the Wrexham Council.

Cllr David A Bithell, lead member for environment and transport, said: “The petition, once received, will be considered as per our usual practice with petitions.”

The link to the online petition is at: https://www.wrexhamplaid.cymru/dodds_lane_roundabout