Barley Wood Signage Sparks Concerns in Oakham Town Centre
Councillors in Oakham have raised concerns about yellow signs directing what they believed is construction traffic through the town centre. These signs, for the new Barleywoods development by Bellway Homes, have reportedly caused confusion.
Rutland County Councillor Raymond Payne (Lib Dem) questioned the logic behind the signage, highlighting the existence of a safer alternative route via the bypass. He further argued that the signs themselves might be illegal, lacking proper approval from highways authorities. One sign was even found attached to temporary scaffolding outside Victoria Hall. (Cllr Payne should take a closer look, the sign is attached to the lamp post where it has been located since last year,
Bellway Homes, however, maintains that the signs are intended for potential home buyers, not construction vehicles. They say signs are standard practice and have received council approval for their locations. Additionally, Bellway assures the public that construction traffic follows predetermined routes agreed upon with the council and communicated to contractors. All developers are required to seek permission from the local highways officer at the council. There are national rules on how the signs should be used and what is displayed on them.
Bellway homes could erect construction route signs and the symbol of a house would need to be replaced with a symbol of a lorry.
The signs used by construction companies are similar to AA temporary signs that do not require consent.
Despite these assurances, Councillor Payne remains unconvinced, stating that the signs are clearly attracting construction lorries to the town centre.
This situation highlights the potential conflict between development needs and the well-being of town centres. Traffic congestion, noise pollution, and safety concerns can all arise from construction vehicles navigating narrow streets.
Nub News report:
