Shopper safety is key for bus re-route
BUSES will soon be running anti-clockwise round the town centre in a bid to improve shoppers' safety and bring extra services.Under the new plans, buses will travel in the opposite direction to the way they currently run, and stop in Museum Street, Dogs Head Street, Upper Brook Street and Northgate Street.
By Mark Bulstrode
mark.bulstrode@eveningstar.co.uk
BUSES will soon be running anti-clockwise round the town centre in a bid to improve shoppers' safety and bring extra services.
Under the new plans, buses will travel in the opposite direction to the way they currently run, and stop in Museum Street, Dogs Head Street, Upper Brook Street and Northgate Street.
Passengers will be dropped off alongside the main shopping areas, to avoid the need for them to cross the road.
Mike Motteram, Suffolk County Council road safety officer, said: "The strategy has been driven by improving access into the town centre for bus transport so they can get closer to the shops. It is about sustainable transport for the future and to make it easier for bus users.
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"Although passenger safety was not the primary objective of the plans, this is a very important secondary benefit. It will cut out the need for pedestrians to rush in between traffic."
The moves aim to benefit current bus users and attract new users, while also cutting the number of cars around Ipswich town centre.
Relocated
Adjustments to road entrances and junctions will be made under the plans, with many bus stops relocated.
The changes will be up and running on October 27, with the exact details due to be announced during October.
Mr Motteram said that bus passengers would be made aware of the changes when details are finalised.
He added that the route would be reviewed for its first 12 months to monitor its success.
Also included in plans, put forward by Ipswich Borough Council, will be a new contra-flow cycle lane running along Upper Brook Street and Northgate Street.
In consideration for town centre residents, restrictions will also be imposed on delivery times. They will be scheduled between 4.30pm and 2am and from 8am to 10.30am.
Borough councillor Penny Breakwell, said: "We hope that the introduction of these traffic orders will let people enjoy the freedom to visit a relatively traffic free town centre and to enjoy our facilities."
"The gyratory bus system will allow easy access to shops and restaurants in the town centre and improve traffic flows around Ipswich. It will mean a cleaner and more attractive Ipswich for all to enjoy."
Weblinks
www.ipswich.gov.uk
www.ipswichbuses.co.uk
