Comments on: Traffic signs of Parwich #10

By: Peter T

Peter T — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 17:30:31 +0000

As far as I know the main trials of this have been in urban settings. Several Dutch cities and parts of London have tried this out. However the Action Group would be interested in hearing if anyone knows of any rural examples.

On the 2000 Village Survey some argued for fewer road signs and some argued for more. There was also some concern about the speed of vehicles in the village and parking in specific locations.

In general since 2000 the number of signs has been increasing, as well as the introductions of features such as the bollards and chicane by the entrance to Parsons Cross (Highways tends to focus on engineering solutions and increases in signage) resulting in a gradual erosion of the village character.

The closure of the Spar Shop has eased problems in one area that did caused concern, though the planned changes in the rebuilt Memorial Hall car park may have further consequences.

The idea of ‘shared space’ arose locally as a result of the traffic survey undertaken as part of the Memorial Hall rebuild planning application. Out of this survey the Parish Council have had some discussion with Highways on the removal of redundant signs.

So the Village Action Group are keen to hear varying views and know whether there is a consensus further action.

By: mikes

mikes — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 17:17:31 +0000

Sounds like a good idea to me

By: Mike A

Mike A — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 14:15:53 +0000

I think it’s an interesting idea, and it would be good to hear more opinions – both for and against. Is there information out there on other villages who have done the same thing, for instance?

When the road signs series is finished, this would be a good subject for another poll. I’ll get something together nearer the time.

By: Colin B

Colin B — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 13:18:58 +0000

Me too

By: Lynne

Lynne — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 12:58:13 +0000

I’m all for it.

By: Peter T

Peter T — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 12:32:35 +0000

The problems of pedestrians and vehicles having to share the same space applies to most of the village not just by the School or the play areas and sports facilities. Having signs for specific locations may unfortunately suggest to motorists that they can pay less attention elsewhere.

At the Peak Park visit in January, the Village Action Group raised the idea of the whole village becoming a 20mph zone with pedestrians having right of way. It is possible (as has been found in other locations) that removal of signs and road markings within a shared vehicle and pedestrian area results in safer roads.

The Peak Park Authority are very interested in this idea, and the Village Action Group would be interested in hearing what local support there might be for this.