A CONGESTION-busting scheme for Leicester Road could still be on the cards.
Heavy traffic around Rugby’s out-of-town shopping hub – which has increased since the November openings of Elliott’s Field Retail Park and Technology Park – has prompted a call for action by Rugby and Bulkington MP Mark Pawsey.
But a Warwickshire County Council spokesman said £9million improvements to the Avon Mill roundabout and Hunter’s Lane – approved by the council last May – were still being drawn up.
Mr Pawsey said: “It is clear action should be taken regarding the traffic flow in these areas, due to the build-up of congestion.
“It is vital to address these issues and ensure residents can get the full benefit of Rugby’s expanding retail offer. The improved shopping facilities have a lot of potential benefit for the town and it’s vital we see that fully realised.”
He added the council had confirmed it would discuss adding double yellow lines to nearby Technology Drive, where residents have raised concerns about dangerous parking on the road.
A spokesperson for Warwickshire County Council said: “We are currently considering the points raised by Mark Pawsey MP, and are in the process of preparing a response.
“We are undertaking further design work to establish the Avon Mill/Hunter’s Lane scheme in more detail – including drainage and bridge design principles, environmental considerations, a review of utilities, liaison with landowners and occupants of affected properties and planning requirements – and also reviewing cost estimates.”
The scheme proposes to expand Avon Mill roundabout linking Newbold Road and Leicester Road, and add a new roundabout to the existing junction at Hunters Lane.
A cycle route between the Rugby Gateway site, the train station and the town centre is also on the drawing board.
The spokesman said: “The scheme is intended to encourage more cycle trips as an alternative to the private car.”
