One-way system and 20mph limit planned for Golden Square and East Hill in Tenterden
05:00, 13 February 2022
Part of Tenterden is set to have a one-way system introduced which residents hope will put an end to lorries mounting pavements.
A new 20mph limit will also be enforced as part of the plans to address traffic issues at Golden Square and East Hill.
The proposal, put forward by Tenterden Town Council (TTC), is expected to cost in the region of £32,000.
Golden Square would be used by vehicles leaving Tenterden, and East Hill by vehicles entering the town, with the joining road remaining two-way.
Additionally, the council would oversee the installment of an improved pedestrian crossing on Oaks Road.
Letters have been sent to residents in the area, with many appearing overwhelmingly in favour of the efforts to improve protections for pedestrians and drivers.
John Jordan said he was “very much in favour” of the proposal to address the “dangerous” road conditions.
“I’ve lived in Golden Square for about 60 years and we have always had a real problem with lorries and other HGVs coming down the hill," he explained.
“It is especially dangerous when the road narrows at the corner, cars coming away from town have to know to stop and wait otherwise there’s every chance they could crash.”
Fellow Golden Square resident Chris Jones also spoke in favour of the plans.
“I’ve already filled out the form to say go for it,” he said.
“The lorries can be a danger and the speeding is also dreadful at times.
“Sometimes you could be walking up the road and lorries or cars will mount the pavement to try and make way or get around somebody.”
One Oaks Road resident, who asked not to be named, said that even more could be done to address the issues.
“We never seem to install speed bumps any more, but I think that could be a good way to address some of the speeding around here.
“I think it’s potentially more of a problem for Oaks Road, the speeding, as it’s more flat than Golden Square but it definitely needs addressing on both roads.”