MP COLUMN: Inconceivable that council should see fit to force through low traffic neighbourhood trial

One of the issues that has really filled my inbox over the last few weeks is the borough council’s plan to close some roads to cars, specifically around the proposed experimental ‘Low Traffic Neighbourhoods’.  These schemes have been in the making over a number of years and, having heard from residents living in the area, there’s been genuine anger and shock at the way that the measures have been introduced in the last few weeks, with the arrival of yellow signs announcing road closures. 

The 18 month trial in Westy will coincide with the proposed closure of the Stockton Heath swing bridge, as Peel Ports undertake work to repair the mechanisms and re-paint the bridge.  This closure will push additional traffic onto routes around Latchford, directly into the area where roads are being closed, as well as causing problems for business and parents going to the two primary schools in the area. The scheme was devised many months ago and although well intended, will have all kinds of consequences on the wider Warrington road network.

It’s vital that local residents have an opportunity to comment fully on plans like the LTN if they’re going to be adversely impacted by them. Last week’s well-attended protest outside the Town Hall in opposition to the proposed road closures was a chance for people to show that their worries over the trial, having felt they have been ignored by the Council leadership thus far.

On Monday evening, Warrington Borough Councillors had the opportunity to vote to pause the Westy Low Traffic Neighbourhood after the opposition Conservative group put forward a motion to that effect. Regrettably, Labour Councillors have ignored the concerns of local residents and pushed ahead with the progression of the scheme.

It is quite simply inconceivable that, at a time when fuel prices have skyrocketed due to global events and local residents are being hit with increased journey lengths because of road closures, Warrington Borough Council should see fit to force through this Low Traffic Neighbourhood trial.

What’s even more baffling is that just last week the Council took a decision to pause the Orford scheme to allow for further consultations to take place, a move which was roundly welcomed by Warrington Conservative Councillors and local residents, but then disregarded the concerns of residents similarly impacted by the Westy scheme.

Working with the Conservatives opposition group on the Council, I will continue to push the Council leadership to recognise the full impact the Westy Low Traffic Neighbourhood trial will have on local people. I want to thank everyone who has got in touch to share their concerns about this scheme, and rest assured we shall continue to oppose its implementation and the implementation of further schemes elsewhere.

Also on Monday the Government finally confirmed that the Golborne Spur would be removed from the HS2 Bill, having listened to the views of local residents and elected representatives.  Labour in Westminster made it clear that they would retain the Golborne Spur, however the Government tabled their own amendment to legislation to change the route.  After ten years, a decision has now been taken and the Golborne Spur has gone from the plan.

I do accept the Government’s case that there is a need to increase capacity on our Victorian built railways, along the West Coast mainline and particularly to move more freight onto the rails.  The opportunity to have a faster rail service from Warrington Bank Quay, with High Speeds trains travelling between London and Scotland as well as a new East - West high speed line, can bring real benefits to people living in Warrington and can drive further regeneration of our town.  Warrington is already an attractive place for businesses to base themselves, this move will help to bring more well paid jobs, helping to level up and provide opportunity to people living locally.