Mayor Dave Writes: Transporting Bedford... and Cutting Congestion

In his July column for the Bedford Indpendent, published earlier this month, Mayor Dave Hodgson wrote about the disruption caused by Network Rail's closure of Bromham Road Bridge. Mayor Dave writes that the works, which will be followed by a rail service downgrade due to the Government's decision that intercity trains should not stop in Bedford, contrast with the Council's congestion-busting scheme for Britannia Road, which is causing disruption but will at least be followed by clear improvements for local road users.

Mayor Dave writes: "...there's no sugar-coating the disruption being caused by these (Bromham Road Bridge) works. However, the Council is monitoring traffic levels across the town on an ongoing basis and will of course take actions to cut congestion where possible.'

"I know what a big impact road congestion can have on people's everyday lives, whether at home or work or both. That's why we're taking action via our Transporting Bedford 2020 project to cut it."

Focusing on the Britannia Road Works, which are underway after commencing at the beginning of the school holidays, he adds: "...During the works, Britannia Road itself will be closed northbound, but the work will bring clear benefits when completed in early 2020. The series of measures to cut queues include road widening, upgraded traffic lights, changes to the road layout and more.'

"We've also worked closely with the hospital, which is making changes regarding the layout and entrances to its car parks intended to improve traffic flow in the area. It's an example of how we are working with others to maximise the benefits achieved through this project."

You can read the full piece on the Bedford Independent website here.