DANGEROUS JUNCTION SET FOR VITAL SAFETY MEASURES (York Liberal Democrats)

York Liberal Democrats <info@yorklibdems.org.uk>

DANGEROUS JUNCTION SET FOR VITAL SAFETY MEASURES

July 13, 2009 12:00 AM

Haxby and Wigginton Councillor Paul Firth has welcomed plans to install traffic signals at the busy junction between the B1363 and Mill Lane in Wigginton.

The plans were approved yesterday by the Council's Executive Member for City Strategy, Councillor Steve Galloway.

In a report prepared for the meeting Council Officers said delays for traffic exiting Mill Lane caused by the busy junction 'may be leading to inappropriate risks being taken by drivers'.

Officers recommended installing traffic signals at the junction as well as the introduction of a 40mph speed limit.

Councillor Firth attended the City Strategy Executive Member Decision Session where the report was being considered to support the proposals. He told the meeting that the proposed traffic signals and 40mph speed limit had the support of local residents.

He also welcomed plans to complete the work on the junction by the end of the current financial year. He said, "A solution to this issue has been needed for a number of years and the situation has been steadily worsening each year with the increase in both local and "rat run "traffic from the Strensall area that use this junction."

"There have been a number of serious accidents at this junction in recent years and it is important that measures are put in place to improve safety for drivers and pedestrians. The proposed improvements should have a big impact on the safety of the junction."

Councillor Firth added, "I also believe that the 40 mph zone could be extended further along the B1363 to further enhance the road safety aspect of the new junction, particularly as there is a local bus stop used by school children at the junction."