Decision details

(1)  The proposal to implement traffic signals at the entrance/exit of the Nugent Retail Park be agreed as detailed in drawing 11239- 01, along with removal of the existing staggered Pelican crossing and incorporation of a full pedestrian crossing stage in the proposed new traffic signals.

(2)  The bus lane, which is currently suspended, be permanently removed.

(3)  Authority be delegated to the Executive Director of Environment and Community Services, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder and Ward Members, to implement any changes considered necessary at the detailed design stage.

(4)  The scheme construction costs of £80k be met from the Transport for London funding for Congestion Relief Schemes.

(5)  The current right turn bans at the nearby junction with Leesons Hill and Station Road be retained pending a further review of the junction, and the impact of the ban on traffic flows in surrounding roads.

This Decision approves recommended changes at the entrance to the Nugent Centre and nearby locations to reduce congestion and improve safety.

Traffic has increased since completion of the Nugent Centre and queuing, particularly from vehicles turning right on to Cray Avenue, has delayed traffic. A staggered Pelican crossing south of the exit adds to congestion with frequent crossings by shoppers across Cray Avenue. The crossing will be removed and traffic signals added with pedestrian facilities at the Nugent Centre entrance. This will enable the “walk with traffic” design to be used, minimising delay as some traffic will be able to proceed while pedestrians are crossing.

Such a signal controlled junction will reduce traffic delays by helping to control vehicles exiting and entering the retail park. Accidents will be reduced as each movement will have its own movement stage, avoiding give way operation.

Additionally, shoppers will be more likely to park in the Nugent Centre car park as there will be a dedicated exit stage.

The section of bus lane, currently suspended, will also be permanently removed. Although there might be a slight delay to buses, their delays overall (in both directions) should be reduced by the improvements outlined.

Installing a no right turn ban at the Leesons Hill/A224 junction during the Chislehurst Road bridge closure has improved A224 traffic flow and reduced the number of injury accidents at the junction. The ban will therefore remain in place for congestion and safety reasons pending a review of the junction.