Fiasco of speed humps (From Stroud News and Journal)

Fiasco of speed humps

A BLUNDER by contractors Ringway cost them dear after they were forced to rip up ten 'sleeping policemen' - because they were too high.

The centrepiece of a 15,000 road safety scheme was removed and re-laid when it was discovered last Tuesday that the speed cushions in Ebley Road, Ryeford were too high.

"They were taken up because they were the wrong specification," said GCC spokesman Jane Bailey.

Ringway installed the speed cushions just weeks ago but they were higher than the specified 80mm. So the contractors agreed to dig them up and relay them at the correct height at their own expense.

The work is expected to be completed this week.

The scheme had already come under fire from SNJ readers, including retired Stroud businessman Darrell R Smith.

Mr Smith, founder of Stroud Motorhouse which was on that road for more than 30 years before relocating, asked the council to justify installing them on what he believes is now a relatively quiet road since the Ebley bypass was built.

"Why on earth spend money there while it's needed in other areas?" asked Mr Smith, of Selsley.

"Whatever budget it comes from it's a waste of money when there's so much needed for the National Health Service."

Gloucestershire County Council said the five pairs of humps were installed with red road markings and new street lights at a cost of 15,000 after thorough consultation with local residents and Stonehouse Town Council.

Sam Roffe, GCC spokesman, said that between 1995 and 2001 four accidents on that road resulted in injuries.

"The speed limit had already been reduced from 40mph to 30mph but the average speed on that stretch was still 36 to 37mph," she said.

"The county council consulted quite widely on the scheme - it did receive objections but also messages of support."

Ringway refused to comment on the removal of the speed cushions when asked by the SNJ.

* For full story see this week's News & Journal