Relief for Road Users as Roundabouts Transform Notorious Junctions

Campaigners and local residents are hailing the impact of new mini roundabouts which have transformed two previously notorious junctions for Bedford road users. The roundabouts were installed on Goldington Road this autumn following a successful campaign by local Liberal Democrats.

Previously, motorists and cyclists turning onto Goldington Road from Goldington Green or Barkers Lane faced an anxious and often extremely long wait for a gap in traffic to turn into, amongst other difficulties.

Potential remedies were not possible for many years due to Goldington Road's designation as a trunk road. Following a change in the formal status of the road, local Liberal Democrat campaigners pressed for action to deliver a lasting solution to the problems.

Campaigning activity by Liberal Democrats from several wards including now Councillors Christine McHugh and Tim Caswell included a popular petition which was presented to Bedford Borough Council earlier this year.

The successful campaign resulted in approval for a new mini-roundabout at each junction earlier this year.

Since the installation of the roundabouts in September, feedback from residents has been overwhelmingly positive, with many reporting their relief at the transformation of such notorious and hazardous junctions.

Goldington Green resident Michael Simmonds is delighted by the changes, commenting: "We are so grateful to Mayor Dave Hodgson and our Goldington Councillors for the roundabout. We found the Goldington Green junction very stressful and dangerous previously, and it is now a pleasure to use. I have watched the traffic flowing across the junction and round it, and it works so well!'

"The junction with Goldington Road and Barker's Lane is also excellent and keeps traffic safely flowing. Thank you again to all involved!"

Cllr McHugh added: "The reason we campaigned so hard for these roundabouts is that we knew what a positive difference they would make at these notorious junctions. So it's great to see and to hear from residents how they have transformed both of them and are working so well.'

"We'll keep working with the Council and with Mayor Dave Hodgson to make positive changes for residents in Goldington."