Rugby gyratory barriers return amid safety fears - The Rugby Observer

Rugby gyratory barriers return amid safety fears

Rugby Editorial 26th Mar, 2015 Updated: 27th Oct, 2016   0

SAFETY barriers around the gyratory system are to be reinstated after concerns were raised by residents and councillors.

Railings between the Raglan Arms on Dunchurch Road and the puffin crossing on Russelsheim Way were removed by Warwickshire County Council because the junction’s current revamp includes new pedestrian crossings on Bilton Road, Russelsheim Way and Dunchurch Road.

However, Rugby Methodist Church, nearby residents and borough ward councillors said the barriers were needed to protect pedestrians and properties from car accidents, and to prevent jaywalking.

Warwickshire County Council transport spokesman Peter Butlin has now approved that the railings from the new crossing on Dunchurch Road to the entrance of the Methodist Church, and those directly opposite the alleyway on Russelsheim Way, should be reinstated.




He said: “It is important that the county council maintains our network of roads to benefit pedestrians and road users and that we de-clutter the street furniture whenever possible. However, community opinion is also very important and as this case clearly demonstrates we will take the opportunity where we can to ensure local concerns are addressed.”

Eastlands ward borough councillor Coun Neil Sandison, who initially raised concern along with church members and residents, said: “It’s good to hear they are re-thinking the removal of the guard railing.


“However, as yet we do not know if this is a full or partial re-instatement of the railings that should not have been removed in the first place without consultation.

Rokeby and Overslade ward borough councillor Coun Bill Lewis added: “Railings have been removed at other locations around the gyratory too where road safety will be compromised. Reinstating one railing will not address all the issues raised by the church and by local residents.”

Caldecott ward county councillor Coun Yousef Dahmash said the decision to reinstate other barriers around the gyratory would be made after the redesign is complete.

He said: “Once the scheme is completed, a Stage 3 Road Safety Audit will be carried out to check that the scheme is operating safely for all road users.

“At this stage the auditors will also highlight any problems which will have only come to light after the scheme has been completed.

“I would strongly urge anyone with concerns to get in touch with me directly as the local WCC councillor for the area once the scheme is completed if they feel there are issues which need to be addressed.”

The gyratory revamp to improve traffic flow by adding lanes and traffic lights is due to be completed within the next two weeks.

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