Crown Square

Speech by Cllr David Barker delivered to Matlock Mercury on Sat 12th Jul 2008

The Editor

Matlock Mercury

Dear Madam

There is much controversy over the new road layout at Crown Square which we are told is already agreed and not up for discussion. I am afraid this will remain the case on this and all other road improvements until there is a fundamental change in the attitude and outlook of the Highways Department of the County Council. A Highway official told me some years ago that there only concern was the free flow of traffic. The requirements of the pedestrian is obviously very low on their list, if it is even there at all.

The opportunity to have an avenue of trees and colourful shrubs along the new relief road was lost, the reason, the County Council insisted that only plants that grow naturally in the Dark Peak (gritstone area) could be used. This was strange because that section of road is in an urban area and on the limestone side of the valley.

We must insist that all the pedestrian areas in the new Crown Square have quality pavers, not tarmac and that all posts, railings (these only where absolutely necessary) and other street furniture including seats are of the highest specification. Specimen trees and flower tubs/beds to be provided where practical.

A final question. When is this work to be done-Not for some time I suspect if the Counties record is anything to go by. There has been no thru traffic directional road sign on Causeway Lane since last October. Holes have been prepared outside Woolworths twice and filled in again. In addition the 40mph sign at the bottom of the Dimple was taken down nine months ago but the poles, illuminated 24 hours a day are still there!

Yours sincerely

Councillor David Barker