Beam Park Councillors Welcome Progress on Marsh Way Junction Safety Works and Call for Further Discussion on Cancelled Flyover Scheme.
Beam Park councillors Matthew Stanton and Trevor McKeever have welcomed confirmation that improvements to the traffic signals at the A1306 New Road and Marsh Way junction are still going ahead.
The councillors are also seeking further discussion following the cancellation of the separate active-travel scheme across the Marsh Way railway flyover.
Councillor Matthew Stanton said:
“While our immediate priority has always been improving safety at the junction of Marsh Way and New Road, the deaths of cyclists in the area and the absence of safe, continuous cycling provision cannot simply be ignored.
“We cannot accept a situation where people are discouraged from cycling because they do not feel safe, only for low cycling numbers then to be used as evidence that better provision is not needed.
“We understand that the current administration has the final say over what form any future proposals should take, and how it balances safety against the practical needs of those using the route. We also recognise the genuine concerns about removing a traffic lane from an important route serving local residents and businesses.”
“However, cancelling the previous design does not remove the underlying questions about cycling safety and access to employment. We would therefore welcome further discussion with Council highways officers, Transport for London, cycling representatives and local businesses about whether a more balanced approach is possible.”
Councillor Trevor McKeever said:
“Marsh Way has to work for a wide range of people. That includes people walking or cycling, passengers using the bus stops, drivers and businesses that rely upon practical access to the area.
“There are genuine physical constraints around the flyover, its gradient and the existing bus stops. We are not approaching this with a predetermined alternative, nor are we asking anyone to impose the previous scheme in a different form.
“We would welcome a constructive discussion with officers about what could realistically be delivered, balancing improved safety and accessible cycling with practical walking, bus and car access, as well as the operational needs of local employers.”
The councillors will continue to seek updates on the programme for the New Road traffic-signal works and would welcome further engagement with officers and transport partners about the wider Marsh Way route.
Councillor Stanton added:
“The priority now is delivery of the junction safety improvements. Beyond that, we hope there remains room for a practical conversation about whether further safety and accessibility improvements can be achieved while respecting the other needs of the route.”
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