Resident complains over Staveley 20 mph traffic scheme

Barry Wigzell lives on Main Street in Staveley. Mr Wigzell has sent two letters to Cumbria County Council (CCC) regarding the traffic scheme since it was first proposed in September and then approved in November.

Mr Wigzell argues that the residents were not consulted enough over the scheme and that it could introduce issues in the village as well as a 'lack of clarity' on the results of a cost-benefit analysis. 

In a letter to CCC dated September 6 2022, just after the scheme was first proposed, Mr Wigzell said: "What were the conclusions of the cost-benefit analysis carried out by an independent agency? Total cost of the work to be carried out, consultancy fees, payments to contractors and so on. Who benefits? Staveley Parish Council, CCC? I feel there is a lack of clarity.

"Cyclists travel at speeds of 20mph plus, what provision is being made to 'police' cyclists? 

In his next point, Mr Wigzell said: "Daily traffic: Double-decker buses, coaches, pantechnicons, postal deliveries, often commercial traffic ie. holiday, resident etc. Pollution and health problems from standing traffic during and after completion of traffic scheme." 

Mr Wigzel received a letter from the council after he submitted the letter saying that a copy is being sent to Emma Ukaogo, the traffic management officer 'in order that she may reply to you directly.' 

Mr Wigzel said that he did not receive any further communication after this. 

A CCC spokesperson said: "We have worked closely with the Parish Council and local member in the past few years to lower the speed limit from 30mph to 20mph in the village, as a safety measure.

“A public consultation took place on this scheme, and all feedback was given to the South Lakes Local Committee, who approved the scheme in November 2022. The works will be finalised at the end of March.

“Cumbria County Council is committed to ensuring road safety, and we hope that the local community will welcome this new speed limit.”