Controversial traffic scheme scrapped

Apr 26 2006 By Emma Cullwick, Birmingham Mail

HOMEOWNERS furious over plans to create a one-way traffic system through the Dickens Heath village can breathe a sigh of relief after council chiefs rejected the controversial proposals.

Solihull Council mooted the idea after families living in Dickens Heath complained about the volume and speed of traffic passing through the centre. Some residents believed a one-way system introduced at the junction of Dickens Heath Road and Hensborough Road would see less traffic travelling along the stretch.

But Lib Dem Euro MP Liz Lynne labelled the idea a "non-starter", saying it would funnel lorries and other traffic down residential roads next to the only children's play area in the village.

In January, villagers were invited to have their say over three options to combat traffic problems. Letters outlining the plans were sent to 100 households, with 86 responding.

Now council chiefs have given the greenlight to go with the people's choice, and have scrapped one-way plans all together.

A council spokesman said: "We thought the one-way systems would increase speeding vehicles, reduce flexibility of the local highway network and have safety implications by increasing the number of vehicles turning right from Dickens Heath Road into Hensborough Road.

"However, the issues raised by residents about inconsiderate parking and inappropriate vehicle speeds are still of concern," he said.

Now householders will be consulted about possibly constructing an additional "tabletop" junction in Hensborough Road.

* Have your say on this story at www.icbirmingham.co.uk/mail/news/yoursay