Local residents object to the proposed plans of the above named LTN. We intend to unite to oppose these plans and demand an opportunity to be consulted so the final plans benefit ALL residents.

We support the overarching objectives of reducing traffic and improving the environment. We stand ready to embrace change for the benefit of the wider community.

However we object to the proposed plan. We object to its implementation before consultation with a review only six months later and we request amendments to the plan.

We request changes be made before the scheme is unilaterally implemented. We do not accept your current plans. We do not agree that these plans should be implemented without prior consultation. We do not accept that it is democratic for consultations to start only after the scheme has been implemented. We believe this is entirely un-democratic and we believe that you are abusing emergency measures which were intended to solve far greater problems than local 'rat-runs'.

The proposed plan is impractical and counterproductive to the LTN objectives. Should the proposed plan be submitted and accepted in its current form, it would force the road traffic from the existing 400+ residential units affected, through one single-lane residential street. The proposed plan is counterproductive to LTN objectives as it will increase the traffic along the route at least threefold (more than negating the anticipated 15% reduction from such a scheme). Furthermore, the traffic will not be able to flow bi-directionally as the route is too narrow. The cause is likely to be significant congestion which will increase engine idling and fuel consumption thereby delivering a negative impact on the quality of air which is already exceptionally poor.

We note concerns that congestion may cause problems for emergency service access. Our elderly, vulnerable and residents in poor health have increased dependency on emergency and medical services during this COVID 19 pandemic when timely interventions are sometimes critical.

We also note concerns about the current scheme in respect of public service access vehicles and the compounding impact on the above when they perform their regular weekly duties.

The current scheme makes no provision for an alternate route for traffic to enter or leave the area. Thus, at least every week, when the public service vehicles perform their duties, 400+ residences will be placed in gridlock with little to no vehicular access.

We are gravely concerned about the impact of the increased traffic to the west end of Windermere Road. There is already often congestion at this junction due to the local garage, this is likely to back onto Northfields Avenue and cause wider issues especially at rush hour. Making Windermere the access route or 'driveway' for 400+ residences will negatively impact residents, especially those on the west end of Windermere Road.

We note that this proposed scheme will do little to make the area safer for walking, cycling and similar activities such as street parties that the enforced LTN claims to be supporting. Indeed, there are no additional provisions made in these plans for pedestrians or cyclists. It is already a practical impossibility for cyclists to pass oncoming traffic without stopping in between cars due to the width restrictions of the streets. The increased congestion will make it dangerous for children and young families who walk to the two local primary schools and the local nurseries and physical activity classes. In its current form, the scheme will concentrate traffic levels into small, unsuitable streets which are already in a poor state of surface repair. This will lead to increased congestion and increased local air pollution all of which generally reduce safety for pedestrians and other road users. It is also sadly possible that public service workers will be placed at a greater risk from 'road rage.' due to gridlock that will be caused on a weekly basis. Residents are concerned about the possible negative impact on the value of their properties and abilities to secure parking for their vehicles caused by your plans.

We propose a counter-proposal that involves small changes such as removing the barrier at Devonshire Road and then repositioning other barriers so that Trent Avenue is not turned into the new 'rat run' between West to East that your proposed scheme will create. These changes are minor, are easily accommodated and yet still allow an LTN to be established thereby allowing 'traffic planning' to achieve their objective of establishing LTN.

Our counter proposal better supports the attainment of the objectives of an LTN by introducing the evidence and direct experience of residents regarding the real & actual flow of local road traffic. The removal of the barrier at Devonshire provides an opportunity for traffic to enter and leave this area by two routes. This small but critical change will help to reduce congestion, and engine idling plus will support improved emergency and public service access. We expect the scheme to be reworked to deliver on the objective of removing the 'rat run' between Northfields Avenue and South Ealing Road and not merely create a new 'rat run' involving Trent Avenue and Windermere Road.

Yours sincerely

Residents of Trent Avenue, Windermere Road, Devonshire Road, Overdale Road, Dorset Road, Derwent Road, Weymouth Road