Posted on Thursday 2nd February 2012
Proposals for a speed reducing buffer zone on the approach roads to Brocton Crossroads on the A34 have got the backing from Brocton community leaders.
A meeting of the parish council last night heard about the plans from local County Councillor Len Bloomer, who has been active in finding a solution to meet local community concerns about safety at the junction.
The junction has been at the centre of a local campaign for action since a tragic death at the junction in July 2010. Over the last five years there have been five other accidents which have involved minor injuries.
Councillor Bloomer said the buffer zone solution was the right solution for Brocton Crossroads.
“I have been working closely with the parish council and our Cabinet member for Highways Mike Maryon to ensure we find a solution that will work and be deliverable fast.
“Our highways experts have been hard at work, with the police, looking at a range of options. But we want the most effective solution. The buffer zone fits the bill. We can change the speed limit to 30mph safely and get action on the ground in a matter of months and cause the minimum of disruption.
“Completely rebuilding the junction would cost £1million – but a comprehensive safety audit has shown we can deliver even greater safety benefits at a lower cost with the buffer zone plan. The most expensive solutions are not always the best.
“This is good news too, because big cost projects mean less money to spend on safety elsewhere in the district and the county,” he said.
The buffer zone will create deceleration zones as drivers approach the junction and the village along the A34. A 40mph stretch will provide a cushion leading to the 30mph zone near the roundabout.
The entrance to the village will be guarded by a speed camera set to the new 30mph limit and there will be dedicated provision for traffic turning into the properties fronting the A34.
This buffer zone will be monitored over a 12 month period to make sure it is delivering reduced speeds and increased safety for villagers and drivers.