Floral Clock Changes Must Reflect The Views Of Residents

3.45.09pm UTC (GMT +0000) Fri 16th Jan 2004

Changes to the road layout to the Floral Clock must reflect the views of residents, says Brunswick & Adelaide ward Councillor Paul Elgood. Last year the council was forced to withdraw plans for more radical changes after an outcry from residents and local traders.

The council is now proposing three options (see attached) for improvements to the scheme. Options 1 and 2 see improvements to crossings but leaving the traffic flow as it is, whilst option 3 proposes two way traffic to the northern side of the clock, a proposal extremely controversial with local residents when presented last year. An exhibition is currently taking place at Hove Town Hall on the changes.

Local Lib Dem Councillor Paul Elgood said:

"We were pleased that officers withdrew their controversial original proposals, which caused great concern for residents and traders. They have now worked up two more proposals which leaves the traffic flow as it is but adding crossings and safety features. Residents are already saying to me they much prefer the new options."

"Last year there was a huge outcry on the original plans. Residents feared greater road traffic and noise to the north of the square, whilst traders to the south feared that their passing trade would be wiped out by re-routing traffic. Many also thought these changes were an utter waste of public money, which could be spent far better in other ways."

"The council must take full account of the views and opinions of local people and traders. They must listen and should be seeking a consensus on the way forward."

Paul added:

"The Floral Clock, the centrepiece of Hove, should be returned to pedestrians, and the new crossings will certainly help achieve this."