20 December
The Woodside Road trial, which has seen the road reduced to one lane in either direction, will not become permanent.
This decision was made after extensive consultation with residents and commuters and by reviewing the survey data gathered from the trial. The council has reviewed the impact of the lane reduction on traffic journey times and queue lengths. The data shows that although journey times were similar on most days and at most times of the day, they increased travelling out of the city in the evening peak, particularly around the Broadgate roundabout. This then had knock-on effects for University Boulevard and Queens Road.
Alternative works to improve cycle and pedestrian facilities will commence Monday 8 January. Starting with path resurfacing near Hathern Green and Brook Road on the southern side (outbound towards Priory Island). Whilst we carry out this work, it will be necessary to keep the temporary junction build-outs and bollards to create a safe working area. After this is complete towards the end of January, we will restore the road to its previous configuration on this side.
Construction will then begin to widen the footway on the northern side of the road (inbound towards Broadgate roundabout) to improve facilities for cyclists. The bollards on the northern side of the road will stay in place until the footway works are complete.
Residents can continue to park on street as they did before but with a resident parking permit. The permits will be issued in the near future and we will look to fully introduce a control scheme to protect the grass verges.
We will let you know more about the improvements we are planning for pedestrians and cyclists in the New Year but wanted to let you know first about the outcome of the trial and the initial effects this may have on you.
Trialling road layouts in this way is important to ensure that we find the best solution for everyone. We apologise for any inconvenience that this may have caused you during this time.
