As Orange continues to expand and businesses in the CBD flourish, there’s no doubt it’s becoming increasingly difficult for pedestrians to make their way around the city.

While a radical plan to reduce speed limits in parts of the city to 40km/h and widen pedestrian refuges may help pedestrian safety, children and the elderly will still have difficulty crossing busy roads.

Clinton Street resident John Edwards said he wants to encourage his young daughters to walk between home and school, however a lack of safe crossing areas makes it difficult.

According to Mr Edwards people often speed through roundabouts making nearby refuges almost impossible for pedestrians to use.

The fact that the roundabouts are often covered in leafy foliage also makes it hard for children to see oncoming traffic.

Mr Edwards would like to see pedestrian refuges placed in the middle of busy streets such as Byng and Hill streets.

Of course it’s not only families in the CBD who are concerned with traffic flow.

Residents living in some of Orange’s many retirement complexes also have problems crossing streets.

Orange councillor Reg Kidd has suggested refuges be built from the edge of the road to slow down traffic and lessen the distance a pedestrian has to walk.

No matter what’s needed to improve pedestrian safety in Orange, now is the time to speak up.

Council want to hear from any Orange residents  with particular concerns about traffic conditions which could prove hazardous for pedestrians.

A progressive council must balance the need for expansion and development with the safety and wellbeing of its citizens and that includes its children and elderly.