ePetition details
We are Appreciative of the changes thus far to reduce the amount of motor traffic using the E3 cycle route into the city as part of the measures to allow for greater use of cycles to compliment and take the pressure from public transport especially in the response to the COVID situation. The current road closures unfortunately have already demonstrated a shift in traffic to Sweetbrier Lane and Hamlin lane in particular.
While sweetbrier lane has some traffic calming measures installed they are not sufficient to reduce the speeds of traffic flowing down this residential street. Several contacts have been made over the past year to the council to address this but with no action taken. In particular, the roundabout at the junction between sweetbrier lane and Whipton lane frequently experiences fast traffic and has, to our knowledge, experienced 3 collisions in the past year. Most recently a lady knocked from her bicycle 2 weeks ago. This is the point that E3 crosses sweetbrier lane and it is conceivable that increased traffic volume, at inappropriate speeds would further increase the risk at this point. It is key to note that the road is at its busiest at rush hour, when if the scheme is successful there will be increased numbers of bicycles using the roundabout for their own commute to work. It is also the time when there are the most school-children walking to school who are also placed at risk by fast moving traffic.
We would call upon the council to make further point closures to ensure the area is entirely closed to through traffic. This would enable a safer environment for cyclists and those who choose active methods of transport. We note on your website ongoing consideration to closures on Ladysmith rd and Hamlin Lane (above the roundabout where no bus route exists to necessitate a Bus gate) and we support and urge the council to pursue these measures in a short timescale.
We feel really encouraged that the council is acting in this way and feel there is an opportunity for it to demonstrate significant benefit to all with this scheme in Heavitree. If it is done well, it could act as a positive example for further changes throughout the city of Exeter and generate local support. We are however nervous that if poorly and partially implemented, with redistribution of traffic on unsuitable residential roads, it could become an example of what NOT to do and cause an increase in resistance to proposed changes in the future.
Many thanks for the Good work so far, please continue making
Exeter a more sustainable, safe, happy and healthy place to
live
Started by: Ben Greenwood
This ePetition ran from 23/06/2020 to 21/09/2020 and has now finished.
One person signed this ePetition.