Holy thread resurrection Batman.

lol indeed Londondrz

Tarquin, also speaking as a qualified driver, who has also done a lot of advanced training too... To believe that ANY collision with a pedestrian can be avoided with a simple emergency stop is a little short sighted (pardon the pun).
While some can be avoided, if someone walks out in front of your car at 10ft or less from the front of the car, even while going along at 20mph, you are going to hit them.
As a reminder... 20 mph = 12 metres (40 feet). (32 km/h) or three car lengths

Hitting the brakes would no doubt have occurred asap. But with people crossing from behind large vehicles etc, its impossible to prevent all accidents, especially when either party isn't giving it the attention they should be.

Defensive driving is a very important part of driving I agree, and not emphasised enough during lessons. That should change IMO.

it is indeed a very long wait I have had to wait for more then a few minutes to cross that road and even then cautiously as drivers speed up towards the lights.

The closing of the crossing by WH Smith h has made things interesting recently.

Far from ideal I have to say.

Sure - but they'll be finished the work in no time!