Work has commenced on Phase 2 of the Green Lane development project. This comprises the installation of traffic signals at the junction with Eastbury Road and, after that, the introduction of a 20mph speed limit between Dene Road and Watford Road, a new pedestrian crossing near the Watford Road roundabout, traffic calming measures between Watford Road and Hallowell Road and the reversal of traffic flow in Rowland Place. Work should be finished by late Spring 2010.
The traffic signals were authorised by Cllr Keith Burrows, Cabinet Minister for Planning and Transportation following favourable recommendations from TfL, the emergency services and LBH. We have been told that, as the signals are a road safety improvement, there was no need to consult with Northwood residents.
NRA is very much against the installation of traffic lights. It is felt that they will seriously impede traffic flow, bringing gridlock to the town centre at certain times, with little tangible improvement in road safety. Indeed, there is concern that driver frustration will result in risky manoeuvres such as jumping the lights. The proximity of the mini-roundabout is a major concern, as it seems inevitable that it will become clogged with vehicles backing up from the lights.
We can only hope that our fears prove to be unfounded.
LBH is also in consultation with TfL in order to make changes to the road layout in Station Approach. We will pass on news when we have more detailed information.