THIS is how the new junction of the A141 and Kings Ripton Road in Huntingdon could look as part of a £400,000 scheme to improve safety in the area. Sixteen-year-old Warren Hay, who lived in Alconbury, died close to the junction in May 2007 after being hit

THIS is how the new junction of the A141 and Kings Ripton Road in Huntingdon could look as part of a £400,000 scheme to improve safety in the area.

Sixteen-year-old Warren Hay, who lived in Alconbury, died close to the junction in May 2007 after being hit by car as he tried to cross the A141 to reach Jubilee Park.

Warren Hay Road Safety Action Group campaigners - including Warren's family - called for safety improvements to be made and Cambridgeshire County Council fast-tracked the plans.

A public consultation has now been launched to seek the public's views on the scheme.

The project aims to provide improved safety for pedestrians crossing the A141 and reduce accidents involving cars entering and exiting Kings Ripton Road.

It includes traffic lights at the A141/Kings Ripton junction, a staggered pedestrian crossing on the A141, improved footway links and upgraded street lighting.

County Councillor Matt Bradney, cabinet member for growth and infrastructure, said: "This has been a top priority for me and Cllr Mac McGuire who have been working with local members and councils to deliver this.

"There is clearly great demand in the community for this and we and our other partner councils have listened closely."

Depending on the public's feedback, work is expected to start in March.

Maxine Hay, Warren's mum, told The Hunts Post she welcomed the consultation.

"I am totally happy with the plans," she said. "They cover all areas of concern - the junction, the crossing and lighting. We have no problems with what is proposed."

However, she would like to see the scheme extended.

"I'm concerned that we have not secured enough money for a footpath all the way to Jubilee Park. We are looking at between £50,000 and £60,000 for the footpath. If we are developing this safety scheme then we must go all the way. It is all or nothing."

She added that the action group had raised £13,000 towards the cost of the extended footpath and would continue fundraising.

Mrs Hay said: "The scheme suggested would only go to Sycamore Farm, but there is another 200 metres or so until you get to the perimeter of Jubliee Park. We cannot leave the kids short."

INFORMATION: An exhibition on the A141 plans takes place at the Commemoration Hall in Huntingdon from 11.30am to 7pm tomorrow (Thursday) and Friday. You can also have your say online until January 12 by visiting www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk