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Big changes or little changes?
The original proposal document had images showing
dramatic changes of environment. The proposals in the new consultation have
been scaled back to refining the environment rather than changing it. The
individual changes are quite minor. It is the culmative effect which may change
people's perception of our main shopping street.
The road system will be basically unchanged. The only
difference is an option to close the Queensthorpe/Sydenham Road
junction. The Kirkdale 'wobbly' roundabout is retained.
For pedestrians the major change is the removal of all
the zebra crossings and replacement with controlled crossings. This despite the
evidence that people preferred uncontrolled to controlled crossings and the
original idea of a free Kensington style layout. Very welcome is the 'Pocket
Square' at the Venner Road junction. This has been widely called for. It is to
be hoped that the necessary emergency service access can be accommodated within
the tree planting. Also very welcome is a crossing at Newlands Park where
anything would be better than the current 'run for your life'
option.
For cyclists the only mention is a controlled crossing.
It is unclear what route that would serve and its position on a steep slope
would appear problematic for any westbound cyclist. The introduction of raised
ramps and granite cobbling would also appear to add both danger and discomfort.
The additional stops at controlled crossings will make travel slower and more
arduous, particulary on slopes. Sydenham Road is not cycle friendly. These
proposals ignore the expressed wishes of cyclists and may make it even less
friendly.
Bus users will see a repositioning of stops. However the
return to a convenient train/bus interchange has not been proposed. The
situation of Station Approach is dependent on the cooperation of the station
operator which is due to change from Southern Rail to TfL and so has been taken
out of this plan for later consideration.
What next?
Having read the document - do you agree or disagree with
these comments. You can discuss them in our Forum
«here».
You can get further information and discuss the
proposals with the designers and council staff at the Naborhood Centre:
• Thursday 15 May, 5-8pm
• Saturday 17 May,
10am-2pm
A public forum will be held at the Naborhood Centre,
Saturday 17 May, 2-4pm.
A second forum will be held on Thursday 22 May,
7-9pm for those who can’t make the first
Make sure comments are returned by June 2nd
Attend the Sydenham Assembly later in June.
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