Quieter Streets project could close Byde Street

Byde Street will close to through traffic if an experimental traffic order comes in to force as part of measures to improve the environment for local residents, pedestrians and cyclists.

The 12-month trial would see a barrier created across Byde Street at the crossroads with Fanshawe Street and Farquhar Street. This would include a bollard and planters, supported by double yellow lines to prevent nearby parking and to keep the area clear for emergency vehicle access.

The key objectives of the Quieter Streets Projects are to establish quieter residential streets and a more pleasant environment for residents and visitors alike; and to encourage more journeys by foot and bicycle for people travelling in, and around Bengeo.

The volume of vehicles driving through the area has caused concern within parts of the community, exacerbated by the number of vehicles parked in connecting streets. Measures to tackle the "rat run" over the last 20 years have failed to fully resolve the problem. Currently the area is covered by an "access only" Traffic Order, including a right turn ban from Bengeo Street to Cross Street (during the AM peak period) and one-way traffic Tower Street is one-way. These measures have been introduced over several years and have had a varying degree of success.

If the trial goes ahead residents will be given the opportunity to comment on the measures. The community will later be asked if they would like the trial to remain in place and made permanent towards the end of the trial period.

You can find our more about the Quieter Street Project on the Hertfordshire Councty Council website, where you can also take part in the public consultation, which closes at 11:45pm on Wednesday 3rd August 2022.