Norden's Councillors are to begin consultation on a village-wide traffic plan that will aim to solve some of the most commented-on issues faced by local residents.
At the latest Norden Area Forum Councillor Peter Winkler addressed members of the public with ambitious plans to develop a strategy which will take on a broad range of problems including availability of parking, yellow lines, parking enforcement and speeding in the village. The plan comes following opposition to a council designed TRO (Traffic Regulation Order) which was opposed by members of the forum earlier this year.
Councillors explained that they wanted to give every possible opportunity for residents and businesses to have an input into what matters to them and a proper say about what they would like to see happen in the village.
Councillor Winkler, who is leading on the project said: "We know that this is a very emotive subject for people and there will be no easy answer to the problem. What seems an obvious solution in one street may just push the problem somewhere else, that is why we are looking at such a comprehensive plan across the whole village."
"The public must have a voice in this process and that is why we are proposing to have a full and detailed consultation so that everyone can have a say. We will however work closely with Rochdale's highways team to ensure that a finalised plan is properly designed and legal."
"Members of the public will have every opportunity comment and we will take everyone's feedback into consideration when putting the plan together, once the plan is at a draft stage we will then share this and let people comment again."
Like many villages, Norden suffers from a general lack of parking space, narrow streets and homes which were designed and built in a time where many people did not drive or own vehicles.
The needs of businesses and shoppers can often conflict with those of residents, but local businesses have always played a constructive part in helping to promote sensible parking. We owe our well used village car park to one generous business owner who built this and allowed free use to the public.
Initial discussions have already begun and residents will see more information being rolled out in coming months as the public are invited to get involved and have a say. Watch out for more information on this site as it is released.