Hopes that traffic calming measures would soon be undertaken in Bicknacre are becoming a distant dream, it was claimed this week.

Parish council chairman, Chris Saltmarsh, accused Essex County Council of pushing the scheme - which was to benefit from funds set aside from the building of the A130 - further and further back.

"I wouldn't say it's definitely been thrown away, but the decision has been made to push it back further into the future. Given the support that local people showed for the scheme I think they will be pretty annoyed," said Cllr Saltmarsh.

He said councillors had learned of the decision at a recent meeting with Essex County Council.

Both the council and residents wanted mini-roundabouts to be installed on Main Road, near the school, Priory Road, and the White Swan.

It was hoped this would make the route more time consuming for rush hour 'rat run' drivers who would have to give way to those joining from minor routes.

"It probably would have helped with commuters using the village as a rat run, though I'm not sure it would have helped at other times," said Cllr Saltmarsh.

In the four years since the plans were proposed, workshops had been held to develop ideas and contractors have assessed the road.

Crossing the busy road to get to Priory Primary School would also have been made easier, he added.

The issue is set to be discussed at the parish council's annual assembly, scheduled for 8pm tonight at Bicknacre Village Hall.

Published Friday, May 2, 2003

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