Construction works

What works are taking place?

Construction works started in February 2024, with an estimated completion date in September 2024. The works have been divided into three phases, see the current project status section for further details.

Accessible descriptions for the preceding image

Following the different options, surveys, and public consultation, WSP developed the above design, which uses an informal layout. This approach has been successfully used on many other schemes, including Poynton, Coventry City Centre, and Ponders End in London. In these examples, vehicles move more slowly through the junction than they would in a traditional layout.

The design hopes to achieve the following:

• Strong visibility: The approaches would be located to make clear to drivers that they are travelling from the public highway into a shared environment. Advance Directions signs (ADS) will also be provided on each approach.
• Provide a high-quality street environment: high-quality carriageway, footway, and street furniture materials have been proposed to create a stronger orientation away from vehicles.
• Remove any priority at the junction: an informal street layout will be provided at the two existing mini-roundabouts to redress the balance between vehicles and other users. This will be achieved by removing all traditional road markings and transforming the centre from a junction to a landmark. The mini roundabouts will be marked with a circular leaf pattern.
• Courtesy crossings at commonly used paths: The crossings will be placed in areas where pedestrians typically prefer to cross, in a very similar location to the existing crossing. Courtesy crossings will also be provided at the approaches as they provide short opportunities to cross the street, which is particularly helpful to people with disabilities. In addition, the visibility splays at the proposed crossing are as good or better than the existing ones as existing planting will be cut back and street furniture moved.
• Prioritise the shopping parade for pedestrians: Car parking currently dominates the area in front of the shops. While vehicle access is essential, this area will be improved to prioritise pedestrians while keeping service access and parking. This will be achieved using high-quality materials and rearranging the parking layout.
• Improved school access: The Avery Corner car park entrance will be widened to allow two-way movement and the approach will be designed to give stronger pedestrian priority. Subject to ongoing land acquisition in this area.
• Introduction of “blended” crossings: We have proposed to include a “blended” pedestrian crossing at the Avery Corner car park entrance which forces drivers to slow down and gives pedestrians priority.

Has this approach been tried before?

Yes, this approach has been used in other parts of the UK, including Exhibition Road, Bexleyheath Town Centre, Ponders End, and Poynton. It is worth noting that the Poynton, Bexleyheath Town Centre, and Exhibition Road schemes have won awards.

When will construction work start and finish?

Construction works started in February 2024, with an estimated completion date in September 2024. See the latest General arrangement drawing (PDF document) for the overall layout of the project.