Heated debate leads to introduction of traffic calming measures in Barkingside and Hainault but no speed bumps

Jessica Earnshaw Thursday, March 21, 2013
4:40 PM

Two roads will see traffic calming and safety measures introduced following a heated debate among councillors, but speed bumps will not be included due to the “noise and aggravation” they cause.

The plans will see cycle lanes, a new pedestrian island, at any time waiting restrictions and flashing amber lights in Fencepiece Road, Hainault and tactile paving and warning signs in Timberdene Avenue, Barkingside.

Both schemes were agreed despite a number of votes against the plans at the area committee three meeting, at Hainault Forest Community Association, Manford Way, Hainault last night.

Ninety-two per cent of residents consulted supported the plans for a new pedestrian island in Fencepiece Road, between Tomswood Hill and New North Road, while only 59 per cent said they wanted cycle lanes.

Cllr Joyce Ryan said: “I don’t particularly want the lanes but we are a cycling borough.”

Cllr Harold Moth said: “I very seldom see a cyclist on that road, the most I have ever seen is two. I think the lanes are a waste of money.”

The lanes and signs will be added after a decision by chairman Cllr Alex Phillips following four votes each way.

Cllr David Poole, who voted against the plans, said: “It looks like unnecessary street clutter and the road markings will end up costing us extra money each year. The cycle lanes will also restrict on street parking.”

After a large number of objections by residents, councillors voted against introducing £9,000 speed humps in Timberdene Avenue, but tactile paving and slow markings will go ahead.

Cllr Moth said: “I have been pushing for this scheme for five years, residents have told me about a number of near misses and small children regularly play out in the area.”

Cllr Nick Hayes said: “The only element that is controversial about this is the humps. Relatively low speeds have been recorded but it is a narrow street.

“I’m no fan of them as they cause noise and aggravation, but if we need them lets put them in.”