I must congratulate Merton Council for a comprehensive proposal to deal with excessive traffic volumes and speeds along Ridgway and towards the Belvedere Estate.
With some 15 or so schools off Ridgway it has been a dangerous road for pedestrians for too long, particularly off peak in mid-afternoon when traffic is lighter but faster when many schools finish for the day.
Having lived on or very adjacent to Ridgway for 30 years I have seen all sorts of speeding including overtaking, which will explain the 11 vehicles per day travelling in excess of 56 mph, not the emergency services!
The interests of the wider area of course need careful consideration and the proposals towards Wimbledon Common seem to address this.
A dedicated cycle route along Southside would of course be terrific.
The Council’s paperwork indicates that total traffic movements will be reduced by a significant percentage; we just need to ensure that the traffic calming results of adding mini roundabouts does not encourage further use of certain side roads.
It is hoped that reduced traffic speeds and more general “calmer” traffic flows will lead to safer pedestrian crossings since these are currently too dangerous.
Hopefully the design will not attract too much street clutter and signage to spoil our conservation area but safety must come first.
Of course we all need to give Merton Council our views on the scheme via the website so we can all help shape the small details of the scheme in our respective areas.
Simon Pole;
Berkeley Place and 30 years Ridgway pedestrian
- Send your letters to: letters@wimbledonguardian.co.uk
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