A CROSSING dubbed the ‘most hated in Worcester’ will be ripped out as part of a revamp of a congested city junction which will begin next week.
The pedestrian crossing on Croft Road, close to the railway arches, will be removed almost two years after county highways chiefs vowed to tackle the crossing which has frustrated city commuters caught in gridlock around Worcester.
Highways chiefs are scrapping the current zebra crossing in favour of a toucan crossing which will see pedestrians only able to cross when traffic is halted by a red light.
To enable the junction to be converted, the existing roundabout near the entrance to the Cattlemarket car park is also being scrapped in favour of an improved road alignment with updated car park access.
Once completed, motorists heading north on Croft Road will be unable to turn right into the car park and will be asked to use the existing entance on The Butts.
Traffic heading south will be able to enter the car park as usual. The current mini roundabout needs to be removed and this is the first work to be completed as part of the scheme.
Whilst this takes place, temporary traffic signals will be required. Once the work to remove the roundabout is complete, the temporary traffic signals will be removed as the majority of the remaining works can be completed off the carriageway without any major impact on traffic.
At the end of the scheme, the road will be closed overnight for a few nights from 9pm to 6am for resurfacing works. A diversion route will be signposted for vehicles.
The work marks the conclusion of a major examination of the city’s traffic problems and Coun Alan Amos, cabinet member for Highways, said: “It’s great news we can share more details on these key schemes after a period of closely evaluating the issue and potentials solution available.
“Cutting congestion remains a priority for the council and with the additional funding proposed for the next three years, even more can be done to tackle the hotspots around the county.”
For the duration of the scheme, the access to the Cattlemarket car park from Croft Road will be closed so vehicles wishing to use the car park are advised to use The Butts entrance.
Pedestrians will be unaffected during the works, due to the installation of a temporary crossing and minor pedestrian diversions which will be in place at all times.
Visit www.worcestershire.gov.uk/relievingcongestionlatestupdates for more.
