TRAFFIC lights could be introduced at major roundabouts on the outskirts of Worcester as highways chiefs look at ways of dealing with increasing traffic from new housing.
Worcestershire County Council is expected to put forward a bid to National Highways for traffic lights at the Ketch, with Norton and Whittington roundabouts also potentially being considered.
The proposals were highlighted in a report from county councillor Louis Stephen to St Peter the Great County Parish Council at its October meeting.
The report said county highways officers still maintained that the number of accidents on the southern link road (A4440) did not warrant changes on safety grounds.
However, officials have agreed to pursue the possibility of traffic lights because of capacity concerns linked to the number of new homes being built in the area.
Other highways issues were also discussed, including concerns about cars and delivery vans using the Red Hill Lane bridleway.
The plans could see traffic lights added to The Ketch roundabout on the A440 (Image: Google Street View)
Cllr Stephen reported that officers had agreed to press ahead with what was described as the simplest solution, reinstating a sleeping policeman at the bottom of the track and installing clearer “No Vehicles” signs.
Two speed bumps are also set to be installed at the Ketch viewpoint car park following concerns about anti-social behaviour.
Meanwhile, further work is expected on the Battenhall Park pedway after remedial work was carried out to address longitudinal cracks.
Councillors were told that although the repairs had been completed, their appearance remained unsatisfactory and further touching up and filling had been agreed.
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Plans for double yellow lines on Norton Road near Broomhall Green were also discussed, with a consultation with residents required before the restrictions can be introduced.
Police told the meeting there were no ongoing crime trends in the area, although an investigation was continuing after damage was reported to the bike shed at St Peter’s Community Centre.
Officers are also carrying out an operation using plain-clothes police to catch people riding illegal electric scooters and motorbikes.
Elsewhere, councillors agreed to donate £1,750 raised through St Peter’s Festival to Acorns Hospice on Bath Road. Recruitment for a new festival organiser is also set to begin.
A second set of village gates will also be installed at the junction of Bath Road and Norton Road after councillors said new white gates on St Peter’s Drive had received considerable positive feedback from residents.
Chairman Cllr J Renshaw also confirmed he would step down from the role on November 9 after two-and-a-half years.
Councillors paid tribute to his commitment and achievements during his time as chairman.
