Things of huge interest to some

Source: RTN

Pedestrians COULD be spared a dangerous scramble across the busy N332 at Calpe by improving an old footpath and a tunnel under the carriageway.

A potential life-saver, it could mean a quick and cheap local solution to an ongoing problem where locals fear there could soon be a tragedy.

Visitors arriving by train at Calpe Station – inland of the road – either have to wait for a bus or walk into the historic town and risk the high speed traffic and flatten themselves against crash barriers because of the lack of a proper pavement.

A petition is currently circulating calling for a proper pedestrian crossing with traffic lights or a footbridge near shopping centre Commercial Aitana. However, these need the permission and funding of the highways department in Madrid.

Carole Saunders, of Calp Independientes Los Verdes, told RTN the path was discovered on a map of walks round Calpe. “Without spending too much money, this is a quick solution to the problem of this very dangerous crossing.
“The town hall is already committed to keeping this country path clear, so it is already in the municipal budget.”

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She said there were stretches of the path where it would need to be levelled to make the walk easier and more signs would be needed.
Carole said the tunnel – literally wide enough to drive a horse and cart through – had obviously been made when the main road was constructed.
She admitted it needed a footpath and steps down from roadside or the path cleared straight up to the station itself.

“It means we have a situation that could take years to resolve if a government department becomes involved,” said Carole. “Or we can be sensible and solve the problem locally.

“We have this tunnel and path – which is mapped on the walks of Calpe – and whilst it needs to be more accessibly to visitors coming from the station, provides a quick and cheap solution.”