Hundreds sign petition to reopen Chesterfield road
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People living on Crow Lane say they were not consulted about its closure to launch a new ‘sustainable and green’ cycle route between the town centre and Chesterfield Royal Hospital.
The closure was made following a joint request from the Royal and the Chesterfield Cycle Campaign to Derbyshire County Council (DCC) to close Crow Lane to traffic at the town end.
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Hide AdHowever, residents claim they were not asked ahead of the closure and their reasons to object to the move are ‘many and varied’.
“The initial ‘road closure’ signage indicated that this was for three weeks only with most assuming the closure was for road works,” a spokesperson for the residents said.
“It subsequently became apparent that DCC had agreed to its closure liaising with the NHS and the Chesterfield Cycle Campaign group. The road would now only permit cyclists, pedestrians and horses.”
They say there are ‘numerous’ cycle and walking tracks as well as bridleways in the area which could have been considered before closing Crow Lane.
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Hide AdThe spokesperson added: “The closure of Crow Lane will cause congestion and traffic to be diverted elsewhere onto already overstressed roads.”
She says alternative routes will add up to 20 minutes on journeys into town and divert traffic past local schools.
“This is to mention nothing of the considerable added air pollution along these built-up roads, and the health impact it may have on children and the elderly,” the spokesperson said.
“DCC always speak of the need to be both transparent and accountable. They have been neither in this decision.”
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Hide AdA spokesperson for DCC said: “We were asked by the Government to look at a range of measures to help get more people cycling and walking - and closing Crow Lane is part of our response as it enables people to cycle safely to the Royal Hospital.
“We are aware of the petition and will consider it once it arrives with us. We have also had a large number of people contact us to say how much they appreciate the road closure.”
To sign the petition, click here