Accident on Rooley Moor Road

Dear Editor


Accident on Rooley Moor Road


The recent accident on Rooley Moor Road illustrates the problem of speeding on this stretch of road and the reluctance of Councillors to do anything about it. 

Indeed a proposed initiate by Councillor Biant to look at traffic on this road will make it more dangerous, making speeding more likely.  In January 2018 Councillor Biant commissioned a study in order to 'increase traffic flow' and to introduce 'a scheme ...........to formally promote any (parking restrictions) proposed'.  Speeding is not mentioned or considered in this study.

Highways will carry out the study and agree it with councillors.  Residents only get to comment AFTER the restrictions on parking are agreed.  The cost is £4,500.  All concerns by residents about speeding on this road are ignored.  We have asked for information about the survey and to make comments BEFORE proposals on introducing parking restrictions are agreed.  We have pointed out that removing parked cars from along the route will enable cars to go even faster.  The obvious fact that parked cars slow down traffic is even acknowledged in surveys carried out by highways on other roads.

The council, councillors and highway employees refuse to talk to us in any way or to businesses. Emails are not even acknowledged, let alone answered. They seem to have undertaken a vow of silence. What price local democracy and representing the concerns of residents? Who do these councillors think they are?

In respect to 'traffic flow', it only takes 90 seconds to travel the length of the road identified in the survey.  Traffic does not have to use Rooley Moor Road, it is not the main route into town from Norden or Bury.  Hold ups last for a matter of seconds.  Single and double yellow lines are not wanted by residents.  What is needed are measures to tackle speeding.  The recent crash was an accident waiting to happen.  Why are councillors ignoring our concerns?  They answer to the electorate, make sure do in the local elections in May.

Regards

Mick Coats

66 Rooley Moor Road