HGV traffic investigation starts for Spondon

Traffic investigations are taking place at a Derby suburb following calls to limit heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) passing 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 lorries.

It comes after the road network in the Derby suburb was described by worried councillors as “extremely fragile” with high levels of traffic and congestion a common problem.

Residents have backed the campaign. Some fear pedestrians are in danger because of the high number of lorries passing through and believe the Spondon village is “too small” for them.

Those living in Spondon have been urged to collect and hand in evidence of traffic problems being caused by HGVs in the area. Examples of problems reported so far include “tyres exploding onto shop windows”, property damage and stuck HGVs unable to get through the bypass at Willowcroft Road, and 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”.

Spondon councillors have confirmed talks about the issue have officially started with Derby City Council officers. A post on the Spondon Councillors Facebook page said Councillor Jonathan Smale met with Derby City Council officers to discuss the problem.

The post said: “On Thursday (May 1st) 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 curbs at pinch points which was dangerous to pedestrians. We explained to the officer that we’ve begun compiling evidence, including contributions from residents and other data we have gathered.

“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.”

Residents have backed the campaign who say traffic problems caused by HGVs is a common problem.

Sally Newbold, 66, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: "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.”

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.”