A DETAILED survey of the A64 near Crambeck and Welburn is being undertaken to improve safety following the deaths of four pedestrians last year.

At the inquest last week into the deaths of Julie Gough, David Tinker and Judith and Charles McLaughlin, Ryedale coroner Michael Oakley said pedestrians had to “take their lives into their own hands” when crossing the 60mph road from one of its several bus stops.

Mr Oakley is writing to the Department of Transport calling for a review into measures such as proper lighting, traffic islands or relocated bus stops to make pedestrian crossing safer on the stretch of road.

Ryedale MP Kevin Hollinrake said that he has met with Highways England, as well as with ward councillor Caroline Goodrick, to discuss what should be done.

Also present at the meeting were local campaigners Andy and Carol Sollitt of the A64 Road Safety Action Group. This group was set up in July to press for improvements to be made to safeguard road users, and includes representatives from Crambeck, Welburn, Whitwell, Crambe and Huttons Ambo.

Mr Hollinrake said that once this survey is completed later this year, Highways England will consider all options to make the road safer, including pedestrian refuges, signage and average speed cameras - depending on the budget and following consultation with local people.

Construction for these improvements could start in 2019, he added.

Mr Hollinrake said: "Highways England is looking into a rolling programme of refuges along the whole stretch of the A64, with one at Crambeck and one at Welburn taking priority, as well as the possibility of new signs and speed cameras.

"I'm pleased something is being done as, understandably, local people are very worried about this stretch of road and they want to know that progress is being made to find a suitable solution."

Mr Hollinrake said a pedestrian bridge has also been mooted, but that "Highways England said the cost and timescale would make this impossible".

News of the safety call has been welcomed by family and friends of the deceased who attended the inquests.

Judith Tinker, Mr Tinker’s mother, said: "I do think something needs to be done on the A64. It’s dangerous from York through to Scarborough. I believe it's about time."

Mick Smith, a friend of Dave and Julie’s, said: "I think the coroner’s summation is about right. You’ve got two bus stops there and no provision of safety for people to cross the road."

Pat Watson, sister of Charles McLaughlin, added: “We’ve been a few times to that bus stop, we’ve seen the situation, and we know how dangerous it is, as proved by the four fatalities.

"Hopefully there won’t be any more."