Barnes junction in line for major improvements (From Richmond and Twickenham Times)

Barnes junction in line for major improvements

9:00am Saturday 17th November 2012 in News By Amy Dyduch

Barnes could see major changes to a busy five-arm junction as the council plans improvements to the traffic hot spot.

The council is consulting on proposals which should help combat congestion and ease traffic flow at the Castelnau, Rocks Lane, Elm Grove Road, Church Road and Queen Elizabeth Walk signalised junction.

The five-arm intersection, and associated traffic movements, means road users endure queues in Castelnau, Rocks Lane and Church Road.

The council wants to make Elm Grove Road one way southbound and remove the existing banned left turn from Elm Grove Road to Ranelagh Avenue.

The council is also suggesting that arrows are painted on the highway showing the direction of traffic and illuminated one way and no entry signs are installed at each end of Elm Grove Road.

Councillor Chris Harrison, cabinet member for environment, said: “I urge people to take a look at the plans for this intersection and provide views so we are able to decide on the way forward with the proposed scheme.”

The council hopes the level of rat-running in other residential roads will be reduced as a result of shorter queues.

Coun Harrison said: “This is a particularly troublesome junction which causes a lot of issues, so by people commenting on proposed works will help us assess the nature of the changes which we feel would alleviate most of the area’s problems.”

Consultation documents have been sent to people living nearby and questionnaires should be returned by November 26, or online form at richmond.gov.uk/consultation_details.htm?id=C01215.