Discussion on £5m scheme for Rugby Road area
PLANS to upgrade two key junctions on Rugby Road alongside a range of highway improvements to existing cycling and pedestrian routes in Hinckley, are set to be discussed this week.
Proposals for the £5m scheme include improvements to the Rugby Road/Hawley Road junction. There are also plans to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists in the Granville Road, Spa Lane, London Road and Coventry Road areas.
The county council proposals, consulted on last year, also feature proposed improvements at the Brookside junction, alongside introducing a new residents parking zone and reviewing town centre parking facilities.
Several suggestions and comments were received during the consultation about certain aspects of the improvements.
The authority has reviewed the feedback and made amendments to the original proposals, which include a different design for the Brookside junction - where no trees will be removed - and looking to expand the residents parking scheme.
Councillor Blake Pain, cabinet member for environment and transport, said: “Rugby Road is a key route in Hinckley and it’s important we continue to invest in our transport network as the borough grows, with new homes, jobs and communities.
“If approved by cabinet, these proposals will improve sustainable transport options in and out of the town with quicker and more reliable journeys and encourage walking and cycling where possible.”
The scheme’s aim is to maximise the borough’s economic potential by reducing congestion and shortening journey times. It also aims to improve air quality by encouraging more people to walk and cycle.
The scheme is being funded with £3.5m from the Government’s National Productivity Investment Fund (NPIF), a funding pot which aims to provide upgrades to essential local roads. The remaining £1.5m will be provided by Leicestershire County Council and third party contributions.
The proposed plans will be discussed at Scrutiny on Thursday, 5 March before going to Cabinet on Tuesday, 24 March. Residents can watch the meeting online www.leicestershire.gov.uk/webcast