Roadworks get rethink (From Oxford Mail)

Roadworks get rethink

6:00pm Thursday 16th February 2012 in News By Rhianne Pope

Ruth Wilkinson

Safety concerns have led to highway officers taking a second look at road ‘improvements’ which took months to complete.

Headington residents are concerned their streets are now a more dangerous place after Oxfordshire County Council finished its work in the area.

The New Headington Transport Improvements scheme began in October last year in an attempt to make the streets safer for cyclists and pedestrians.

But after spending nearly £500,000 on it, the county council is finding itself in the position of having to think again after reports drivers are speeding up.

As part of the roadworks, the installation of several flattened speed bumps with crossings have reportedly led to some drivers mounting kerbs and cutting corners.

Chicanes have also been put in place which are at the same level as the road.

Local city councillor Ruth Wilkinson felt there were not enough measures in place telling drivers what to do.

She said: “There is concern from motorists about right of way and sight lines, and some pedestrians have witnessed vehicles mounting pavements via the dropped kerbs as they turn.”

She also expressed concern about a lack of signs.

Kennett Road resident David Clover called the scheme “half-baked”.

“The number of accidents in the area will almost certainly go up,” he added.

Last week county council officers met Mrs Wilkinson and Patrick Coulter, of Highfield Residents’ Association, to investigate some of the issues.

County councillor Rodney Rose, the cabinet member for transport, confirmed the council was investigating the matter.

He said: “Our officers are having a look at the area and I will wait for them to report back before commenting further.

“I am taking the residents’ concerns seriously.”

At some junctions bollards have already been put in place to make the roads safer, while others have been given red imprints to highlight crossings.