Pondtail & Kings Road misery AGAIN

Residents and motorists at Pondtail and Kings Road in Fleet face another nine weeks of traffic jam misery, following the start of the latest works.

The four-way junction – which is a major route from Fleet to Farnborough and Aldershot – is being transformed as part of Hampshire County Council's plan to create a new cycle route.

The works include new traffic signals, pedestrian/cycle crossings, and cycle lanes across the canal bridge to Velmead Road.

The junction and Kings Road as far as Pinewood Hill will also be resurfaced.

Local residents say they are angry the junction is again being dug up.

Last year it suffered eight months of upheaval and traffic chaos when South East Water replaced water mains along Kings Road.

The junction has also been dug up by other utility firms a number of times, during the past few years.

And London developer Aldershot Road Ltd wants bulldoze the boarded-up buildings and butcher's shop at the junction, and replace them with new retail units. Many local residents have objected to the council about this planning application, citing traffic concerns.

"Here we go again," said resident, Jeremy Page. "I've lost count how many times there have been temporary lights and the road dug up."

Jane King agreed. "Why can't these companies liaise with each other so this work can all be done at the same time? It's a nightmare getting in and out of my own home because of this."

The cycle route works are part of the Fleet Town Access Plan.

"The works will take place in a number of stages, with careful planning to minimise the disruption caused," said Rupert Hunter, supervising engineer.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused. We aim to cause the least amount of disturbance."

So….what are your views on this? Do share!