THE road layout near the site of a fatal crash is to be changed, although a tree almost scuppered plans.

Councillors have approved turning the existing Pelican crossing in Aldersbrook Road in Wanstead into a Toucan crossing and the news has been welcomed by residents.

The plan is also to widen the crossing and install a cycleway.

Redbridge Council's Area One Committee considered the proposal for the busy road, near the junction with Harpenden Road, which should make it safer for pedestrians, drivers and cyclists.

At the meeting last night members agreed to pursue the scheme and because it forms part of the Olympic Cycle Route Enhancement programme, to provide sustainable access to the 2012 Games, the Olympic Delivery Authority will pick up the £105,000 bill for the work.

Mike Russell, of Park Neighbourhood Watch, welcomed the news but said the fight would go on for more improvements to roads in the area.

Mr Russell, of Dover Road, said: "I remember the incident with the two lads being killed and that could have happened anywhere on that road, it's not just that junction.

"It is a good thing, I'm not going to knock things that are for safety.

However, Mr Russell said he was dubious of separate plans to widen mini-roundabouts, in a bid to force drivers to reduce their speed, in the area as it could lead to a build up of congestion.

Vera Wright, who lives in Harpenden Road, welcomed the news.

The 83-year-old, a member of Wanstead Park Women's Club, said: "It's good it's not going to cost us anything and sounds like a good idea.

"There are quite a lot of accidents on the road and I belong to the women's club (which meets in Aldersbrook Road) and we come out at about 10.30pm and we are amazed at the speed some of the cars come down there.

"The accident there last year was dreadful so anything to make the roads better and safer is a good thing."

On June 14 last year Wasim Butt and Najib Karim, both 18, were killed when the black Lexus in which they were passengers hit a tree on the road, near the junction with Herongate Road, just yards away from the crossing.

The plans for Aldersbrook Road include widening the footpath to accomodate a cycle path, laying anti-skid road markings either side of the crossing, the removal of a tree to aid visibility, and improving street lighting.

Peter Goody, Conservative councillor for Snaresbrook Ward, questioned the necessity of removing the tree.

He said: "I wonder whether we are being seduced by the idea that because another authority is offering money we are just grabbing it, whether or not it's justified."

Steve Grayer, lead officer for the committee, said two semi mature trees would be planted nearby to replace the one more mature tree.

He said: "Come the Olympics we are expecting higher use of cycling and it is someting we are trying to encourage and it is part of the London Mayor's strategy."