Southsea's Kent Road may get passing places due to traffic concerns
Traffic congestion and safety issues prompt proposals
Plans are being put forward to introduce formal passing places on Southsea’s Kent Road following residents' concerns about traffic congestion and safety issues.
The proposed experimental traffic regulation order (ETRO) aims to ease vehicle passage by removing parking from selected sections of Kent Road, replacing it with no-waiting restrictions, road markings, and signs.
Kent Road, which connects Southsea High Street to several major routes and landmarks, currently narrows due to parked cars, particularly during school peak times.
Council figures indicate high traffic flows, with speeds averaging between 20mph and 21mph.
Among the safety issues are drivers mounting pavements and navigating with limited visibility.
An additional proposal suggests relocating affected parking spaces to Osborne Road, offering 53 metres of replacement parking.
These developments follow complaints from residents regarding the number 18 bus service, introduced on Kent Road last year.
Residents cite noise, vibrations, and low passenger numbers on the service.
At a transport meeting, Richard Lacey, a Kent Road resident, expressed concern over the bus route and urged reconsideration for safety.
An alternative route for the number 18 bus has been proposed, taking it along Portland Road, Osborne Road, Duisberg Way, and Clarence Pier.
However, Cllr Peter Candlish defended the bus route, emphasizing the importance of public transport despite congestion challenges.
Councillor Graham Heaney suggested trial re-routing of the number 18 bus to address residents' concerns.
Cllr Candlish promised to explore ways to assess the impact on road safety.