Local Plan 2011-2031 Proposed Submission Draft

Any development east of Knebworth would demand a substantial and effective solution to dealing with the extra traffic generated, both vehicles and pedestrians/cyclists [cf SP7 a b c d]

Watton Road is at peak times already overloaded, due to the current volume of local and through traffic.

The current layout of Watton Road east of the junction with the B197 and west of Bell Close creates chronic problems for through traffic, because of traffic calming structures and on-street parking. More housing and services east of Knebworth will exacerbate the existing problem.

Motorists effectively increase the capacity at peak times by driving on the southern pavement in the built-up area. [cf T1 a]

This already presents a hazard to pedestrians (this is a walk-to-school route) and causes damage to property. This would certainly worsen. [cf T1 a dii]

This could be mitigated by examining whether the current blockage of the old Stevenage - Hertford Road is still justified (near Ranworth Avenue). That road was built to cater for heavier traffic flows, because it is a former trunk road. [ SP7 e]

Or by creating an effective new by-pass, with a new entry to the development area, between Watton Road near Old Lane and Stevenage Road north of Knebworth. Or by implementing a one-way system using roads such as Old Lane, Oakfields Road, Haygarth etc.