Why we fixed road junction

Aug 4 2010 Harrow Observer

AS BOTH present and past Headstone North councillors, we were interested to read your article on the junction of George V Avenue and Headstone Lane ('School unites in road safety call,' Observer, July 22).

When we took control of Harrow Council four years ago, the situation at this junction was clearly unacceptable, which is why our Conservative administration took various steps to try to alleviate some of the problems and dangers faced by pedestrians.

This included the imposition of speed restrictions at the junction, as well as a new zebra crossing on Pinner Road and clearer and better road markings.

As ward councillors we were acutely involved in this improvement process, meeting with residents, council officers and Transport for London.

It is therefore very encouraging to see that a right-turn filter will be installed at the junction, and that the traffic lights will also be rephased.

Continuing improvements for this junction formed part of our safety review last year, and we're pleased the new Labour administration is carrying out our recommendations.

It is important that road alterations of this nature are not rushed, as their potential impact has to be assessed and monitored.

This is why changes like this need to be done gradually and can sometimes take a little while to come to fruition.

However, we hope these carefully considered improvements, to be completed by September, will make a positive difference for the pupils and staff at Nower Hill High School and all motorists and cyclists.

COUNCILLORS Janet Mote, Headstone North ward, Tony Seymour, Headstone North ward,

Eric Silver, formerly Headstone North ward