EFFORTS by two Redditch County Councillors to improve traffic flow on a congested Webheath road have ended in failure – due to the apathy of residents.
A doorstep survey late last year by Councillors Robin Lunn (Lab) and Brandon Clayton (Con) who both represent Redditch North, indicated residents of Heathfield Road, Blackstitch Lane, Weatheroak Close, and Yeadon Close were broadly in favour of making Heathfield Road one way.
However when county officials went to the expense organising a paper survey with pre-paid envelopes nearly 50 per cent of households did not bother to vote leaving 97 in favour of the move and 55 against.
For any scheme to be adopted, it requires the support of a majority of all households in the surveyed roads.
Coun Clayton said: “It is very disappointing. Robin and I worked together on this and we personally delivered the surveys. Before that we knocked on all the doors and everyone said they were in favour of the one-way system.
“But of course people can say anything and we needed actual proof in writing and so we gave people the opportunity to express their views and nearly 50 per cent didn’t respond – it’s very frustrating.”
Councillor Lunn added: “We know from the doorstep conversations we both had with residents that there was strong support for a one way system, which was reflected in the vote.
“However, it is important that any scheme has majority support from ‘all’ households. If the support remains high, and the amount of traffic continues to grow, then we would support another consultative ballot being held.”
The survey was carried out following concerns from local residents on the safe free flow of traffic along Heathfield Road.
In particular, concerns have been raised regarding vehicle conflict, resulting in reversing manoeuvres and regular footway overrun.
