Newly designed cross walks in Hamilton have been hailed a great success.

Calls from pedestrians to improve crosswalks in the city centre prompted the Corporation of Hamilton to begin construction of raised zebra crossings on certain streets some 12 months ago.

And Corporation secretary Roger Sherratt said the new design has proved effective in encouraging motorists to slow down.

The scheme was initiated with the installation of a raised crossing on Par-La-Ville Road last year. There are others on Dundonald and North streets near Mount St. Agnes Academy and Dellwood Middle School, and at the entrance to the Bull's Head car park.

"We had received several complaints about these areas where there have been some nasty accidents,'' said Mr. Sherratt.

"Whenever we receive a complaint, the Street Committee investigates it and sees if anything can be done.'' The Corporation has also widened the adjacent sidewalk and removed parking to shorten some crossings. It is now in the process of reviewing all crossings to see what can be done to improve safety -- including those at major intersections with traffic lights.

"There has been a tremendously positive response from the public,'' said Mr.

Sherratt.

And a letter from a Hamilton businessman suggests that another should be placed on Church Street between Chevron House and the Boyle Building.

"My office overlooks the crossing and every day I witness pedestrians almost being hit by cars, bikes, trucks and buses,'' he wrote.