Drivers commuting through Saltaire roundabout are being asked to be patient during major road works. The busy route will be disrupted for around six months as a result of work which will begin in the middle of July.
Shop owner Angels Walmsley: "Please don't stay away"
The new layout will see the notorious congested roundabout replaced by a junction managed by traffic lights between the A650 and A657.
The aim of the scheme is to improve the control of traffic flow and make it safer for pedestrians while creating a reduction in rat running.
Shop owners are worried this will have a devastating effect on their business. Butterfly Rooms owner Angela Walmsley said: "We don't want people to avoid the area, it the last thing we want.
"We understand that it's going to be a bit inconvenient for people but there is no point in having a brilliant road system if there are no shops along the way."
This scheme will work alongside other highway projects currently being implemented in Nab Wood and Saltaire which include the extension of the bus lane back to Bankfield and giving buses priority signals.
Clarence Road and Albert Road will be closed off to traffic. When the work is completed there will be a new one way link between these roads.
Ms Walmsley said: "Its not so much about the actual impact of what they're actually doing, it's the impact whilst there actually doing it.
"I completely understand that we need a better road system and everybody gets that, anyone who has driven through Saltaire understands that. But because the road works are going on so long the impact that it's going to have on trade ....."
Ms Walmsley, who hopes that during this time people will not be discouraged to have days out, said: "Come to Saltaire, it's fine. It's going to be difficult, there is going to be traffic but don't let it put you off.
"Worse case scenario, get a train, get a bus, walk. It's a beautiful walk along the canal, there are plenty of ways to get here and it's a brilliant day out. There are tonnes of beautiful shops so don't let it stop you."
 |
| Many more of these to come ... setting up barriers at Saltaire roundabout today |
No comments:
Post a Comment
BCB News Online welcomes comment on our stories. As a courtesy to other readers, please use a proper name and tell us where you're posting from. Thanks!