Safety fears over gyratory system

Editor News editor Cllr Harper makes some valid points about the pedestrian and cyclist access to Maidstone town centre in relation to the new gyratory system (letters January 11, 2018). However, it is a pity he chooses to accuse Liberal Democrat councillors without knowing the facts.

He was not present when the Lib Dems raised these issues again and again at numerous meetings between KCC officers and county and borough councillors throughout the planning stages.

In particular, we gave our opinion right from the outset that the pedestrian refuge in the centre of the road was too small and its capacity would need to be improved with the closure of the underpass.

We also requested consideration be given to a westbound cycle lane across the Broadway bridge.

In an overwhelmingly Conservative-run county council these views were ignored and the gyratory scheme was designed purely as a vehicular traffic flow solution.

Lib Dem councillors have repeatedly raised safety concerns and have requested an early review of the gyratory scheme. This has been refused.

We continue to work at both county and borough councils to achieve the necessary adjustments to the gyratory scheme and would suggest that, as Cllr Harper’s views are similar to our own, he works with us in attempting to achieve them. Rob Bird, Leader of Lib Dem Group, Kent County Council and Fran Wilson, Leader of the Lib Dem Group, Maidstone Borough Council.