Harlow road to close for trial following concerns of 'rat running'
The residential road will shut in October
A residential road in Harlow is set to close as part of a trial scheme to help tackle 'rat running'.
Residents have shared their concerns in the area for a number of years. Old Road is now set to shut from Monday 19th October.
Locals raised issues with the road being used as a shortcut between Cambridge Way and Gilden Way, with the county council considering options to address the issue and encourage drivers to use more appropriate routes.
The authority has decided to trial an experimental closure of Old Road which will be in place between the junctions with Hart Road and The Hoo.
Access will be maintained in one direction for vehicles and both directions for pedestrian and cycle traffic.
The trial closure is for a maximum period of 18 months and once it is in place a statutory six-month consultation period will begin, allowing residents to comment on the process.
Councillor Mark Webster, Essex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Infrastructure, said: “Residents and local councillors have called for action to tackle rat running in this part of Old Harlow for a number of years.
“Old Road is a residential street and not an appropriate route for longer distance through-traffic.
“The experimental closure will stop drivers from using Old Road as a shortcut and aims to make it a quieter, safer and more pleasant place for residents.
“We recognise there may be divided opinions about the closure and we are keen to hear views from both sides.
“The trial will provide an opportunity for residents to share their views and for us to consider the evidence before we make a decision about whether to make the closure permanent.”
A final decision on whether to make the closure permanent is expected to be made by next summer and no later than Spring 2028.