Extra signs could prevent a tragedy (From Romsey Advertiser)

Extra signs could prevent a tragedy

2:40pm Wednesday 11th April 2012 in News

A PARENT has warned of “an accident waiting to happen” if motorists are not warned of the dangers of a newly congested road.

Kevan Vear said as a result of the closure of Romsey Road, many drivers were using Botley Road instead, which runs close to two schools.

The father-of-two believes there should have been temporary signs put up to warn drivers that there are likely to be schoolchildren on this road and to take care.

He fears that a child could be knocked down.

“With that increase in traffic and children, it’s an accident waiting to happen,” he said. “I see a situation happening that might end up in tears.”

Mr Vear, of Mount Temple, Romsey, uses Botley Road every day and his son Joe, 15, goes to Mountbatten School.

The 47-year-old salesman said since the closure on Friday, for work on Ashfield Bridge, he has seen a marked increase in traffic, including large lorries.

Despite its proximity to Halterworth Primary School and Mountbatten School, Mr Vear says the only signs are directions and that motorists who are used to using national speed limit on Romsey Road may be less familiar with Botley Road.

Mel Kendal, Hampshire County Council’s executive member for environment and transport, said Botley Road was not part of the assigned diversion route, designed to incorporate motorways and A roads, but appreciated that people may use local knowledge.

He said speeds should not go above 30mph on Botley Road and speeding would be dealt with by police.

He added: “The existing school warning signs should not need reinforcement with additional signs on Botley Road, but we are working closely with Network Rail and Test Valley Borough Council to ensure that the traffic management arrangements that have been put in place are appropriate and we will continue to monitor the situation and make any adjustments or improvements that we agree are necessary.”