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Leslie attacks road impasse

From the Telegraph & Argus, first published Friday 28th Jan 2005.

An MP today said it was "hugely disappointing" that a dispute over who is responsible for the upkeep of the Bingley relief road was delaying schemes to reduce traffic problems in the Aire Valley.

And Shipley Labour MP Chris Leslie slammed Bradford Council's stance in refusing to take control of the £47.9 million road from the Highways Agency unless the Government pays for a short-term scheme to ease the congestion it causes.

As the Telegraph & Argus revealed exclusively yesterday, the Government says funding to improve traffic flow will only become available if the Council agrees to become responsible for the A650 between Saltaire and Crossflatts roundabout.

The Council has also refused an offer by the Agency to fund a study into the traffic problems.

The stalemate is likely to result in a lengthy public inquiry - leaving motorists facing jams until a solution is found.

But Councillor Anne Hawkesworth, the Council's executive member for the environment, said it would maintain its position.

She said: "At the time of looking into the de-trunking of roads by the Council previously it was made quite clear by councillors that they believed when major roads were de-trunked they should be de-trunked fit for purpose.

"My big question is why didn't the Highways Agency do a feasibility study in the first place and certainly before it was handed over."

Mr Leslie said: "It is hugely disappointing to see the Council posturing rather than working in partnership with the Highways Agency.

"To delay yet further joint work on Shipley and Baildon congestion solutions is irresponsible on the part of the Council.

"I thought the proposed engineering study by the Highways Agency would have been a major step forward, but it seems the Council is prepared to sacrifice progress in favour of a protracted public inquiry which will take us nowhere."

Nab Wood resident Val Peleshi, who has been affected by congestion, said the Council was right to ask for the Government to pay for a scheme.

"You can't set up a huge road and leave all the little roads to cope with it all. It's ridiculous."

As previously reported, Council highways staff have drawn up short-term solutions to ease congestion. These include traffic calming in Cottingley; a review of signing, lining and signal timings; boosting cycling; and reducing the number of commuter journeys.

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