Talks start over limiting lorries in 'small' suburb

Traffic investigations are taking place in a Derby suburb following calls to limit lorries passing through the area.

Councillors and highways chiefs at Derby City Council have met to discuss the possibility of a weight limit restriction for vehicles to be introduced in Spondon because of frequent problems with HGVs.

It comes after the road network in the area was described by worried councillors as "extremely fragile", with high levels of traffic and congestion a common problem.

Residents have backed the campaign, with some fearing pedestrians are in danger because of the high number of lorries passing through and that the village is "too small" for them.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) said reported problems include "tyres exploding onto shop windows", property damage and stuck HGVs unable to get through the bypass at Willowcroft Road.

Last year, one angry resident launched an online petition on the change.org website saying she felt "constantly exasperated by being stuck in traffic through our village due to random roadworks and unexpected road closures".

A post on the Spondon Councillors Facebook page said Conservative councillor Jonathan Smale had a meeting with Derby City Council officers to discuss the problem.

The social media post said: "On Thursday 1 May, Councillor Smale met with Derby City Council's head of traffic & transportation.

"They walked from the Sitwell Street/Willowcroft Roundabout to Dale Road Park to highlight some of the traffic problems we're facing, especially regarding HGV travel.

"Ironically, during the walk, two HGVs were seen clipping kerbs at pinch points, which was dangerous to pedestrians.

"We plan to collect more data soon through surveys conducted at various times and on different days to provide a clear picture.

"We'll be asking residents to support us by helping collect this information."

Sally Newbold, 66, told LDRS: "I've got grandchildren, and I literally have to hold them tight on the pavement because so many are coming past, and they are going too fast.

"It's dangerous. The village is too small for them."

Colin Earith, 88, said: "A weight restriction is needed, but it has been needed for a long time. The roads in Spondon are very narrow, and any issue causes traffic to be built up."

And Jackie Boole, 77, who lives near the centre of Spondon, said: "It is dangerous for children to cross the road.

"Many of them pass through the main road here in Spondon, which has narrow streets, and you can hear the vibrations. Sometimes the drivers get lost and are then trying to reverse around a tight corner."

Spondon councillors have confirmed talks about the issue have officially started with Derby City Council officers.

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