Agenda item

Report ES12008

Members considered a report outlining proposals to amend the junctions of Southend Road with Foxgrove Road and Brackley Road.

Southend Road has featured for several years as a location with a higher number of injury accidents than average for such a road.There is a history of accidents at the junction with Foxgrove Road and there is also a problem with vehicles speeding along Southend Road. 

Introducing the report the Head of Traffic and Road Safety advised that further information indicated that the cost of a four-arm roundabout for the Southend Road/Foxgrove Road junction (option 1) would effectively double in view of the proximity of communication cables. Concerning this junction a Member expressed his support for the scheme at option 2.

A Member enquired why the expense of removing the existing pedestrian island in Southend Road (north of the proposed roundabout with Brackley Road) was necessary. Members were advised that the island was recommended for removal as it was particularly close to the proposed zebra crossing. Later the Member enquired of the width of Southend Road at the location of the proposed zebra crossing and indicated that a refuge could provide a safe haven – including for school children - where it was only necessary to look one way to and from the crossing. He also explained that if a southbound vehicle was waiting at the stop sign (of the roundabout) it could obscure sight lines.

Another Member suggested the inclusion of a refuge in the middle of the zebra crossing. 

The Head of Traffic and Road Safety explained that children could misunderstand a refuge and any refuge would have to be narrow; however a refuge would be considered as part of the detailed design with any such minor modifications considered by the Director of Environmental Services in consultation with the Portfolio Holder.

With a refuge, as part of the Zebra crossing, it was also explained that visibility would be an issue and motorists might not see children waiting or stepping out; motorists might also be unsure on whether it was necessary to give way.

A further Member felt that if it was necessary to educate children on road safety (there is a nearby school) they should be directed to a zebra crossing so they have one place where they know they can cross safely. Another Member suggested a reduction of the speed limit in this part of the road.

In concluding debate the Chairman suggested moving the zebra crossing slightly northwards and he advocated that this along with other comments concerning a refuge be put to the Portfolio Holder for consideration.

The Chairman also suggested reviewing the traffic lights along Southend Road after the London Olympics.

RESOLVED that the Portfolio Holder be recommended to agree that:

(1)  the remedial measures as outlined in the second option are installed at the junction of Southend Road, Foxgrove Road and Park Road;

(2)  a mini roundabout be installed at the junction with Brackley Road as well as a zebra crossing to the north of the junction;

(3)  authority to make any minor modifications which may arise as a result of any considerations be delegated to the Director of Environmental Services, in consultation with the Environment Portfolio Holder;

(4)  the requirement for the traffic lights along Southend Road be reviewed after the London Olympics in the next Council year.