Helmsley traffic calming 'unnecessary' (From Gazette & Herald)

Helmsley traffic calming 'unnecessary'

PEOPLE power has triumphed following a tense confrontation with highways bosses over "unnecessary" traffic calming measures, that residents claimed would ruin the scenic streetscape of Helmsley.

At a public meeting called by the town council on Monday evening, North Yorkshire County Council highways chief Paul Shephard backed down over plans to lower the speed limit, build speed cushions and put "pinch points" on the town's Ashdale Road, The Crescent, Eastgate and Pottergate.

"If people don't want them, then we'll take that on board and withdraw the scheme," said Mr Shephard.

Town council vice-chairman Coun John Buffoni said it had been categorically assured by the county council that consultation would take place with residents and local councillors before any proposals were introduced - so it was a disgrace that they had not had a chance to put their opinions forward.

"I would put it to you that, at best, we have been misled and, at the very best, we have listened to assurances that weren't worth the words - it's time to start listening to the town council," said Coun Buffoni.

Colin Brown, highways team leader, said the town council had been consulted when the traffic management strategy was devised.

"What we wanted to do was consult with you on a 20mph zone in Ashdale Road and surrounding streets. Clearly, you don't like that. You could have just told us, instead of making such a fuss," said Mr Brown.

Roy Watson, one of the 20-strong audience, said: "This will desecrate one of the oldest parts of Helmsley, and we are supposed to be living in times of conservation. The urbanisation of Helmsley is causing distress to people."

Jean Marsden said: "I don't want to see traffic-calming measures on Ashdale Road. I've lived there 30-odd years and there's only ever been one slight accident. I don't want these humps - and I call them humps, not cushions, because they're not comfortable."

Mr Shephard said the justification for the traffic measures was that there had been two personal injury accidents on the road in the last three years.

Caroline Foster, also of the highways department, asked town councillors to reconsider plans for a bus terminus in the town's market place. Members agreed to discuss proposals at their next meeting. The scheme for Carlton Lane will still go ahead.

Updated: 10:52 Wednesday, June 30, 2004