A FLINTSHIRE family says they fear for their children’s safety after their 5-year-old boy was knocked down on a ‘dangerous’ road in Saltney Ferry.

Saffron and Danny Williams' son, Jacob, was involved in a collision with a car on Saturday, August 27 when playing with his dad and a friend near his home on North Street, Saltney Ferry.

He sustained several open wounds and was air-lifted to Alder Hey children’s hospital in Liverpool.

There has been much concern amongst residents about the safety of the road with a lack of road safety measures in place despite children being known to play nearby in the adjacent residential streets.

READ MORE: Residents call for change over 'dangerous' Flintshire street

Recalling the moment she heard the news that Jacob, who has autism and ADHD, was knocked down, Saffron said: “It was a shock for the whole community – everyone knows Jacob. He’s a loving little boy who wants to help people.

“I was in tears; I didn’t know if he was alive or dead. Seeing your child like that is the worst feeling ever – it’s not nice for anyone. He was panicking and screaming. We thought he’d hurt his back, hip, or spine, he couldn’t move. The lady – bless her, did try to help but she was in shock.

The Leader:

Mum of two, Saffron said: “There’s no awareness signs, no signs saying children are playing, and no speed bumps. I’ve rang the council to explain what had happened, I’ve wanted to move prior to this, I’m not happy where I’m living and it’s not safe for Jacob.

“It’s had to take something like this to happen for them (the council) to say they can’t pedestrianise it – it’s not about pedestrianising it. It’s about making it safer for children and adults.”

Currently, Saltney Ferry Road reverts from 60mph to 30mph as drivers approach the built-up area shortly after a sharp turn which is a blind spot.

The road also includes retirement bungalows, a small café, and a primary school.

The Leader:

“He’s very lucky. There have been children here in the past who have been seriously hurt – he’s not the first.

“Having that road there, with no road safety measures is dangerous. I’m not blaming the lady; I actually feel sorry for the lady. There’s no warning of a blind spot. They have it for animals, so it annoys me.

“I don’t feel safe after what’s happened to my son. He cries when he crosses that road. It’s traumatic because there is no safe place to cross. Jacob is scared and doesn’t want to be here.

“In most places there would be some safety measures for children as it’s a residential area but there’s just nothing.

READ MORE: Wrexham: Calls for action over 'dangerous' A525 road

“I’m scared to let him out knowing there’s no safety measures. A lot of people around here have been begging the council to do something and they haven’t.”

A Flintshire Council spokesperson said: “Flintshire County Council is saddened to hear of this tragic accident and our thoughts are with the family at this difficult time. 

“The council is committed to improving the safety of all road users, and as a matter of course, we will work closely with the police to understand the circumstances surrounding this incident and will take appropriate action where needed.”

They added: “As with all road traffic collisions of this nature, it wouldn’t be appropriate for the council to comment further until the police have concluded their investigations.”

Jacob is home now recovering from his injuries.