Support for Option 1  and for the democratic process in consulting local people from Jesmond residents

We include our names in response to the incorrect and emotive comments made by a North Jesmond councillor in relation to the Council proposals to improve Acorn Road.

As Jesmond residents (North and South) ranging from families with children, students, young people and the elderly, we reiterate our wish to see the democratic outcome of the Acorn Road consultation and the choice for Option 1 to be realised.

Change is desperately needed for Acorn Road to improve wellbeing, to promote and ensure a healthier, friendly and vibrant neighbourhood, as well as to help boost the local economy.

There are a number of locations in Jesmond where provision for pedestrians is substandard, particularly Acorn Road. Transport for London footway width guidance recommends an unobstructed footway width of 3.3 metres for High Street shopping areas, Acorn Road offers less than half this!

Whilst Option 1 is not an entirely 'perfect' solution, we believe it represents a positive compromise between the extremes of pedestrianisation and no change. We are disturbed at recent individual attempts to undermine a democratic and transparent process with the local community. Option1 shows that it is possible to rebalance our streets in favour of pedestrians, wheelchair users and cyclists whilst maintaining car access and parking provision for those that need it.

 Our Jesmond councillors would serve us well if they could work towards improvements for Acorn Rd in partnership and indeed, benefit of us all.

 Link to the original design work from February is here: http://diystreetsnewcastle.wordpress.com/2014/03/10/acorn-road-designs-here/

Updated in May here: http://diystreetsnewcastle.wordpress.com/2014/05/08/acorn-road/