Alton Masterplan: Danebury Traffic Barrier To Remain Closed

Council confirms proposed changes to barrier at Danebury Avenue will not be included

A proposal to open the barrier at certain times of the day had been part of the ‘preferred option’ put forward for consultation earlier this year.

Council leader Ravi Govindia has now confirmed it has been ruled out following representations from local people. He said:

“Local residents have not been persuaded on the benefits of opening the barrier. The potential for rat running and proximity to the nearby primary school were key concerns and we can now confirm it will remain closed.

"The proposal to open the Highcliffe Drive barrier also will not be taken forward in the masterplan. However, given the estate’s lack of public transport access we will continue to explore with Transport for London and local people the merits of extending the route of the K3, as well as increasing capacity on the busy bus corridor along Roehampton Lane to Barnes Station.

“Residents’ views have been crucial in shaping our plans and ensuring they address the issues local people care about. The weight of local opinion is very much in favour of this regeneration project and the improvements it will bring. I’m very much looking forward to seeing the final scheme later his year. ”

Following on from the preferred option consultation the council and its consultants are now working on a final version of the masterplan which reflects local people’s feedback, is within budget and within planning rules.

The council will produce the finished work in late summer 2014 and councillors will then decide whether to approve the proposal and continue to the next stage.

If approved, the council will then look to appoint a delivery partner for the project and to develop the masterplan into detailed planning applications. This would involve further consultation and engagement with the local community.

The earliest work could start on the first phase would be in late 2017.

July 18, 2014