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RESIDENTS have hit out over what they have described as “unsafe” plans to improve a junction at the A52 through Radcliffe-on-trent.
Highways England has proposed a number of changes to A52 junctions across the county, including at Bingham Road in the village.
But some local residents have raised safety concerns over the plans, which include widening the road from two lanes to three and removing the left turn onto adjoining Carter Avenue.
Stephanie Leech, 26, who lives near the junction, has started a petition calling on the proposals to be changed or scrapped.
She said: “It’s not that the road is safe as it is – it’s dangerous – but these changes will just add more problems. We’ve an academy nearby – the road is going to become a raceway if these changes go ahead.
“The number one problem at that junction is speed, that’s the main issue – and nothing is being done to tackle that.
“A lot of residents around there are elderly and can’t raise their concerns because they don’t have social media. One of my neighbours was in tears because of it.
“People don’t feel like they are being heard. I know some people have trouble even getting into their driveways and that is because they don’t feel safe near the junction.”
Objections raised include that properties will face three lanes of oncoming traffic with no measures to reduce speeding along the stretch of main road.
Colin Marshall, 70, a former driving instructor who lives on Harlequin Close, told the Post: “It’s an absolute disgrace. The main problem is getting rid of the left-hand turn [onto Carter Avenue].
“I was a driving instructor for more than 20 years – the safest way of making a left turn out of any junction is with traffic lights. People come tearing along the A52 often at far more than the 40mph limit.
“I just can’t see the reasoning behind it at all. If people complaining is going to save one life – then it will have been worth it.”
Another homeowner, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “I don’t think anybody is happy about what they are planning.
“This junction is dangerous – people come flying down, we need something to slow them down.
“What they’re suggesting just won’t do that.
“A lot of elderly people live here and a lot of children walk along here. It’s not safe.”
Other sections of the road where improvements are planned include at the Gamston roundabout, Stragglethorpe Road junction and A453 Silverdale junction.
Highways England Project Manager Kanishka Varoon said: “Safety is our primary concern and changes will only be made after full and careful consideration.
“We remain committed to working with local communities and stakeholders as we progress our plans for this scheme.”