BROADSTONE TRAFFIC ISSUES ADRESSED

9.39.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 17th Jun 2009

Tackling traffic congestion

Traffic congestion in the Broadway has increased dramatically in recent years, creating parking problems particularly for blue badge holders wishing to shop in Broadstone.

While changes to the main bus routes have benefitted the community, buses have experienced problems at certain junctions. Grange Road, just off the Broadway, is frequently used by blue badge holders for on-street parking and by lorries delivering to retailers. As a result, buses were frequently blocked from accessing and exiting the Broadway.

A proposal to ban all parking and loading throughout the centre was initially proposed to help ease the problem. Objections from retailers and Broadstone Access Group led ward councillors to meet with members of the Chamber of Trade and Broadstone Access Group to discuss the issues and find an agreeable solution.

Cllr Mike Brooke said: "A scheme is being implemented later this year which will create a couple of designated bays for disabled drivers in a more suitable location at the same time as restricting loading in Grange Road. This should reduce congestion and benefit all concerned."