Villagers have say on traffic-calming ideas

At a public meeting on Monday, people spoke in favour of a scheme to introduce a 20mph speed limit through the centre of the village.

But residents did not seem convinced by an idea to introduce advisory cycle lanes and remove the central white line from the road – in conjunction with the reduced speed limit – saying it would cause confusion.

The package of measures, which also includes gateway signage, has been put forward by Longhoughton county councillor Kate Cairns, who would help pay for the project if it went ahead. A formal consultation will commence and residents are urged to submit their views.

Coun Cairns said: “There was support for 20mph. Some suggested the change in linage would be confusing. I agree. Any change causes a degree of confusion, but we can manage that with clear signage.

“These proposals are based on research and evidence that shows they work in slowing traffic. A road safety audit would also be carried out. While we discussed other speed-control measures, such as rumble strips, chicanes and removing all signage and lines, there was general consensus that none of these measures were desirable.”

Coun Cairns suggested the package of measures, ‘which is the most effective way to use the budget available to achieve multiple aims’, could be implemented as a trial.

To submit comments, email highwaysprogramme@north umberland.gov.uk with the subject Longhoughton 20mph scheme.