26/07/04 - Roundabout ruled out of Kendal's traffic scheme

A roundabout at Stramongate School has been ruled out of proposals for phase two of the Kendal Town Centre traffic scheme. The decision was made by Cumbria County Council's South Lakeland local committee at a meeting on Friday. The decision came after a consultation report concluded that the proposal was contrary to the local transport plan. It would be detrimental to cyclists and would increase the risk of accidents. 

The committee agreed to the statutory consultation on the pedestrianisation of Stricklandgate and to immediately action plans for variable message signs as part of a programme of work to improve car park and direction signing. The variable message signs change to give constantly updated information to motorists on the number of car parking spaces available in a particular location. These signs are being successfully used elsewhere in the county. County Councillor Oliver Pearson, Chair of South Lakeland local committee says, 

"Car parking is one of the issues still to be resolved in the implementation of pedestrian priority in Kendal. The variable message signs will be a valuable source of information for motorists. We are committed to improving the quality and safety of peoples lives in South Lakeland and will strive to meet the needs of pedestrians, motorists and cyclists in the finalisation of the scheme." 

The committee has also earmarked money for pilot park and ride schemes to encourage Christmas shoppers to Kendal. Achieving the goals set out in the Local Transport Plan giving pedestrian priority in Kendal Town centre will reduce traffic congestion and provide a more attractive shopping venue for local people and tourists alike.