THE furore surrounding the installation of the mini traffic-island in Burford is no surprise to me as we live within 30 yards of the centre-spot, thus having a very close view of its effect on traffic.
I have yet to meet anyone who considers it to be contributing in any way towards solving the problem of excessive speed along the A456 through Burford.
I have been to The Shirehall and spoken to the engineering project manager responsible, and I have also involved the MP Philip Dunne, as this has been a shambles since its inception with layout, signage and visibility compromised in the mad rush to be seen to be 'doing something'.
I am trying to persuade the authorities to recognise the dangerous nature of this ill-conceived installation before one of the numerous minor incidents, which occur on a daily basis, results in something far more serious.
It does not help that a large majority of drivers do not know the correct procedure on approaching the obstacle and I have witnessed, and recorded on video, numerous 'near-misses' and attended one potentially serious collision which, fortunately, resulted only in major damage to both vehicles.
If the authorities were serious about road safety, this type of obstacle would not be imposed without proper notification, and consultation with local residents.
A sign fixed to a lamp-post informing of "Changes to traffic management" is just not good enough.
I sincerely hope that this dangerous situation is properly resolved soon, otherwise the fears expressed by so many concerned observers will, sadly, come to a serious and sad conclusion.
JOHN HUGHES
Burford, Tenbury Wells