Stephen Metcalfe, Member of
Parliament for South Basildon and East Thurrock recently met with Cllr Rodney
Bass, Cabinet Member for Highways at Essex County Council to discuss the
ongoing campaign to see the speed limit in Dry Street dropped to 30mph.
Following a constructive
meeting, Cllr Bass reiterated what he had already made clear on many occasions
that he did not have the authority to alter the speed limit without embarking
on a further consultation.
The current 40mph limit was
introduced at the end of August following an earlier consultation undertaken
before Cllr Bass was the cabinet member and before the tragic death of Justin
Bowman. However, Cllr Bass agreed that he would arrange for a speed survey
within the next few weeks and that he would consult again with the Police to
identify whether a further reduction in the speed limit or other safety
measures should be introduced on Dry Street. He would also examine the
implications of potential additional traffic on Dry Street as a consequence of
recent planning applications for new housing development in the vicinity and
any conditions imposed by the planning authority thereto.
Stephen Metcalfe, who has been
working on this issue together with Basildon Council Leader Tony Ball, said: “I
am grateful to Cllr Bass for agreeing to a new survey and fully accept that he
has to act both proportionately and within the legal frame work laid down by
law.”
Stephen continued: “I hope that
following the survey and subsequent discussion with the Police, and taking into
account all other factors evidence will emerge to support a 30mph limit, but at
this stage we will have to wait and not pre-judge the survey.”
Stephen finished: “I, Cllr Tony
Ball and Cllr Bass are aware of how emotive this issue is and have great
sympathy with the family and friends of Justin who was sadly killed in Dry
Street earlier this year. Our overriding aim is to ensure our roads are safe
for all users and that appropriate speed limits are in place, which I for one
hope will be 30mph for Dry Street."
