Decision details

The purpose of this report is to consider the introduction of Road Safety Measures in the form of a Traffic Calming Scheme along Derker Street, Arnold Street, London Road, Barry Street and Prince Charlie Street in Oldham (St James Ward).

RESOLVED - That:
a Traffic Calming Scheme is introduced along sections of Derker Street, Arnold Street, London Road, Barry Street and Prince Charlie Street comprising of a series of vertical deflections (in the form of Speed Cushions, Road Hump and Speed Table) and improvements to the existing mini-roundabout including improvements for non-motorised users where appropriate.
Waiting restrictions are also proposed at the junctions of Derker Street / Yates Street and Stoneleigh Street / Prince Charlie Street to improve visibility for vehicles exiting from the side road junctions.

Option 1 - Effective traffic calming schemes rely upon the spacing of an optimum series of physical measures that introduce both horizontal and vertical deflection to vehicles and thereby encourage slower speeds. On some roads the existing geometries (eg narrow sections, bends) can be considered as physical features that compliment any additional measures.
Option 2 - The preferred option along Derker Street, Arnold Street, London Road, Barry Street and Prince Charlie Street is to introduce such measures consisting of a Speed Table, Road Hump, pairs of Speed Cushions and improved warning signage changes to the existing mini-roundabout. It is intended that the preferred option will both slow down drivers that are accessing the area and deter those who are simply using the route as a timesaving shortcut. The benefit of such physical measures is that, correctly spaced, they will not rely on Police enforcement to guarantee slower speeds.
Option 3 - Alternatives to the installation of physical traffic calming measures can include the introduction of traffic signing and road marking schemes that may or may not involve the reduction of the existing speed limit. However, owing to the straight, wide alignment and gradient of the route it is highly unlikely that drivers will comply with such a scheme, particularly in the absence of any Police enforcement activity.
Option 4 - Consequently, the alternative option of solely introducing additional traffic signage, enhanced road markings and a reduced speed limit is unlikely to result in any significant reductions in vehicle speeds or rat-running traffic.

Options 3 and 4

Traffic Management Unit Consultees
Ward Members