26 September (Part 1) - Stainless steel clutter
The refurbished Bexleyheath Broadway undoubtedly looks smarter than it used
to be, I don’t think any of its many critics dispute that but safety concerns
have demanded several changes since it was partially opened in June.
This is what council leader Teresa O’Neill had to say about it a few days after it opened.
It
was carefully designed and implemented after a series of consultations with and support from
the Borough’s residents and businesses. The consultation included the Bexley Access
Group which represents the more vulnerable members of our community.
This scheme has been designed using an innovative concept of ‘shared space’ which
aims to create a better balance of priorities between drivers and pedestrians.
The most recognisable characteristic of shared space is the absence of street
clutter, such as conventional traffic signals, barriers, signs and road markings.
We’re convinced this will also lead to further economic regeneration of the
Borough’s strategic town centre as early indications are already showing. We
need to inspire our children and young people to welcome the new environment.
One
has to ask, if it was so carefully designed, why so many changes have been made since.
There were three attempts to get the road signs at the magic roundabout right. Are they
right now? The pedestrian crossings have proved troublesome and more signs appeared this
week. See photos taken yesterday evening.
How does that fit in with Teresa’s “absence of street clutter”?
Having gone that far why not put in a longer pole, paint it black and white and
plonk a yellow globe on it? A flashing light inside it would be a nice touch.