A proposal to close a road which would have prevented through-traffic movements in Bengeo will not go ahead. Hertfordshire County Council announced on Thursday (November 17) that following consultation, it will not be proceeding with plans for a trial road closure point at the top of Byde Street, Hertford.
The closure would have prevented through-traffic movements within Bengeo, which lies on the northwest edge of the county town. A consultation found low levels of local support for the proposals. The proposals were put forward earlier this year as part of the Bengeo Quieter Streets consultation.
The key objectives of the project were to establish quieter residential streets and a more pleasant environment for residents and visitors. It also aimed to encourage more journeys by foot and bicycle for people travelling in and around Bengeo.
This followed submission of a petition where concerns were raised in 2021. Hertfordshire County Council (HCC) said that the volume of vehicles driving through the area has caused concern within parts of the community and is seen as a barrier to cycling and walking and the general enjoyment of the environment where people live.
In response, HCC confirmed it would engage with the local community on a proposal to limit through traffic. The proposal suggested physically preventing through motor vehicle movements on a trial basis between the A119 near Hertford North Station and the B158 on Bengeo Street via the Bengeo residential area.
The main features were to include a bollard and planters in Byde Street by its junction with Fanshawe Street. This would have been supported by double yellow lines, preventing parking near this location, to aid vehicles needing to turn around and keep the area clear for emergency vehicle access.
A consultation received more than 2,700 responses. In total 38 per cent of all respondents supported the trial, 61 per cent did not and one per cent were not sure. Within Bengeo, west of Bengeo Street the responses were similar with 37 per cent in support, 62 per cent not supporting and one per cent unsure.
Properties within this area were proactively encouraged to respond to the consultation via a letter distributed. Further analysis of this area of Bengeo showed that 74 per cent supported the trial closure south of the point closure location, whilst only 24 per cent supported it to the north.
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