Green Party councillors in Exeter have stepped into the battle over re-opening a city road to cars and lorries.
Dryden Road is set to be re-opened after six years of being dedicated to pedestrians and cyclists, and supporters of the move say it will benefit everyone.
It will, they say, re-open a route which will alleviate congestion and pollution on nearby streets such as Bovemoors Lane as well as stopping the use of a rat-run through the nearby hospital grounds.
But objectors including the Greens and the Exeter Cycling Group are opposing the recently-published Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) which could lead to the re-opening of Dryden Road early next year.
It was passed by members of the city’s highways and traffic orders committee after months of argument and debate. If re-opened, the layout will include pedestrian crossings, a cycle lane and a 20mph speed limit.
The cycling group has already launched a crowdfunding campaign to pay for a legal challenge. Now the Exeter Green Party is also urging people to oppose the current proposals.
In a statement it said they would threaten the safety of those walking, cycling and wheeling in the area. A spokesperson said: “The Green Party is committed to making Exeter a safer and healthier city.
“When it comes to transport, that means safe routes for walking, cycling and wheeling and less congestion and air pollution. It is clear that the current proposals to manage safety along the road are either inadequate or non-existent.
“We urge local people to respond to the consultation, explaining how the proposals to reopen Dryden Road to traffic would impact on them, their family and friends. Numerous concerns have been raised by the public and the Green Party has a duty to challenge any measures that could make our city less safe.
“The decision on Dryden Road is crucial, not just for this road, but because it will influence future decisions. It will determine the direction of travel in Exeter.
“As Greens we want to see less traffic, cleaner air and people of all ages able to walk, cycle and wheel around our city safely.”
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