Drive to stop jams and improve journey times on busy city road

TRAFFIC congestion on one of Sheffield’s busiest roads is being targeted in a new drive to improve journey times.

And people who use the route have been asked to give their opinions on a series of possible solutions which have been drawn up.

Until the end of April, local residents, businesses and commuters are being invited to give feedback on proposed changes to Ecclesall Road, which runs into the city centre from the south west, as part of the so-called Smart Route project.

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Plans include tackling congestion at key hot spots as well as making sure that public transport is punctual and reliable. Other proposals aim to improve facilities for pedestrians and cyclists, while encouraging some car users to consider other options.

Coun Ian Auckland, Sheffield Council’s transport spokesman and a member of South Yorkshire’s Integrated Transport Authority, said: “We have been working closely with the South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive, looking at what the public have told us were their priorities.

“Detailed plans are now on the table and we want people who use the road to help us make them work as well as they can.”

Coun Auckland said people could see the proposals by visiting the website at www.smartroutes.co.uk/ecclesallroad and can also fill in a consultation leaflet online.

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Questionnaires will be posted direct to those who live and work along the Smart Route while visitors and commuters will be able to collect a consultation leaflet and response form at one of 50 community access points along Ecclesall Road.

A drop-in session will also be held on March 30 at the Polish Catholic Centre, at 518 to 520 Ecclesall Road, from 2.30 until 7pm and a dedicated Smart Routes Information Line has been set up on 0845 303 0343.

It will be open Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm, and operators will be able to take down any feedback people have about the ideas. An answer phone facility will be also be available outside office hours.

Responses to the consultation will need to be received by the team by April 18. They will then be reviewed by the council and it is planned that, subject to funding, improvements will be made in 2011 and 2012.