CAMPAIGNERS in the borough, who have got together to put a stop to the growing problem of 'pavement rage', will officially launch the pioneering project today (Thursday) at 11am in Church Square.

Representatives from disabled groups, St Helens Council, the police, St Helens Chamber and others, have formed a task group to raise awareness of the problems caused by pavement hazards. Under the Pavements for People campaign, changes to current legislation will be looked at and a high profile awareness campaign launched.

Target areas include:

obstructions outside shops and commercial premises such as A-frames;

parking and cycling on pavements;

street works;

dog fouling;

wheelie bins and

overhanging trees and shrub.

A Pedestrians Charter for shops where people-friendly access is given is already proving popular with retailers keen to sign up to demonstrate their commitment to the project.

The campaign actively encourages people to keep pavements free of obstructions by enlisting the support of shops, businesses and residents to think about being 'pavement-friendly.'

To many people, obstacles such as A-frames don't constitute a hazard, but for disabled people, people who are visually impaired, mums with prams and elderly people with shopping, they can be very dangerous.

Bylaws are being looked at so that persistent offenders can be prosecuted and St Helens Council already has a problem hot-line number for people to ring regarding hazards on St Helens 456470.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.