The Executive Member for Environment and Sustainability, Councillor Peter Gavigan, approved proceeding to public consultation on proposals to signalise two roundabouts on the B1365. The decision was made after a discussion that addressed concerns about traffic flow, pedestrian safety, and the impact of future housing and economic growth.

B1365 Roundabout Signalisations Consultation

Councillor Peter Gavigan, Executive Member for Environment and Sustainability, approved the commencement of public consultation on plans to introduce traffic signalisation to two roundabouts on the B1365, specifically at the junctions with Stainton Way and Viewley Hill Avenue/Newham Way. This decision was made to mitigate the anticipated increase in traffic demand resulting from housing and economic growth, as outlined in the Council's Highway Infrastructure Delivery Plan¹ and the Newham Hall Disposal Option proposals².

The report presented to the Executive Member highlighted that transport modelling indicated the need for signalisation to ensure safe and efficient movement of traffic. It was noted that in the last five years, there had been 11 accidents recorded at these two locations, involving 21 vehicles and resulting in 14 casualties, with common causation factors including failed to look/mis-judging other persons speed/trajectory. The proposed signalisation aims to improve safety for all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, by incorporating signalised crossings which are currently missing or inconsistent.

During the meeting, Councillor Nicky Walker, Executive Member for Finance, raised concerns about the impact on motorists travelling from Newham Way to Hemlington and the potential issues for pedestrians travelling between Hemlington and Coulby Newham. Councillor Gavigan assured her that the scheme was designed to alleviate these issues. Councillor Ian Morrish, Deputy Group Leader, inquired about the provision of maps and visualisations for the public consultation, and was informed that maps would be displayed in the affected areas, along with a visualisation board. Councillor Morrish also enquired about potential challenges, and it was noted that the Viewley Hill side currently lacks cycle paths and walkways, necessitating a less direct route. However, it was also suggested that the new signalisation could encourage the use of alternative routes, thereby reducing overall traffic congestion.

The decision to proceed to public consultation was deemed appropriate as it allows for stakeholder and resident feedback on the proposals. The alternative of not progressing to consultation was rejected, as it would have hindered the Council's ability to address potential congestion and safety improvements linked to growth ambitions. The costs associated with the works will be met from the current Capital Programme, funded by a combination of Section 106³ contributions, Towns Fund⁴, and Council Capital funds.