Tidal flow traffic system causing chaos for commuters

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 3rd Jul 2006

Liberal Democrats are calling on the council to sort out a confusing traffic management system that's causing chaos for commuters travelling to and from the south of the Sheffield during rush hour.

There are currently road works being undertaken by a utility company in the area of the tidal flow traffic management system at the busy Queens Road, London Road and Wolseley Road junction. The works, being undertaken on Wolseley Road, have caused disruptions which have been worsened by the lack of signage informing motorists of the temporary changes.

The tidal flow traffic management system is designed to switch designated lanes between outbound and inbound traffic during peak times in the morning and evening. However, the roadworks have brought about the closure of some lanes which has caused general confusion and unnecessary delays at the junction.

Lib Dems have been informed that the roadworks will be in place for at least two months. They believe that given this length of time and the level of disruption the confusion is causing, Sheffield City Council must now act to ensure that new signage is erected as soon as possible to improve the situation.

Councillor Sylvia Dunkley, Liberal Democrat Shadow Cabinet member for Transport, said: -

"The lack of signage informing motorists of the changes brought about by the roadworks has led to general confusion and unnecessary tailbacks for commuters. The junction at Queens Road, London Road and Wolseley Road is always busy but these latest difficulties are making a bad situation worse whilst also creating a safety hazard"

"We have called for the council's traffic management team to improve the signage in the area, but so far they have given no assurance of action. I'm disappointed because the current problems could be alleviated with some clear and concise information for drivers"

"We understand that necessary roadworks can cause unavoidable temporary problems, but in this case the Council has the opportunity to improve the situation for commuters in the south of the city. I hope they heed our call and take action to reduce the congestion"