EVER since the two lanes past Brooklands have been narrowed into one in the interests of traffic-calming, the queues at the traffic lights, particularly down Western Road, have been horrendous.
By reducing the capacity on the A259 at its busiest point, not only does this increase driver-frustration and, therefore, the risk of accidents, it has also pushed more traffic through unsuitable roads within Sompting, particularly West Street, as dr
ivers struggle to travel during busy periods.
When the road was resurfaced, I saw this as a golden opportunity for West Sussex County Council to put things right, and restore the road-markings back to the way they were.
I am delighted that they have seen reason on the westbound carriageway, and that the two lanes have been put back.
Unfortunately, at the moment, they are still insistent on keeping the eastbound carriageway restricted.
There are two main roads going east/west past Sompting – the A27 and the A259.
Because these roads cannot cope with the existing levels of traffic (which will only get worse once the new store at Lyons Farm opens), drivers in their frustration use roads which are not suitable for through traffic and West Street in Sompting is one of the worst affected.
This traffic scheme may, or may not, improve safety along that particular stretch of road, but it has the opposite effect on the residents in West Street – which is also a conservation area.
I have suggested that both lanes be restored on the eastbound carriageway, and that the nearside lane should be made left-turn only at the lights, which should improve traffic flows when the road is particular busy.
One has to bear in mind that this particular section of the A259 actually carried two lots of traffic – that on the A259 itself, but also traffic from Brougham Road and Western Road.
Tim Clarke
Sompting parish councillorNOTE: All letters must include a name and address which can be withheld by request.
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