A proposal by Stoke-on-Trent City Council to implement double-red lines along a significant stretch of Bucknall New Road has sparked widespread anxiety among local business owners.
The planned red route, slated for the section between Potteries Way and Lindop Street in Hanley, would replace existing double-yellow lines. Violators found stopping on the roadway face fines of £70.
Business Owners Express Deep Concerns
Lassaad Ben-Hmida, owner of Mobis phone shop, voiced a stark warning about the potential consequences. “This will be devastating for business,” he stated. “The town is already struggling; this will finish me off and every other business here.” He questioned the council’s priorities, asking, “Why are they surprised when things are quiet? People need even a few minutes to park outside their shops.”
Amy Griffiths, an employee at Global Groove Records, highlighted the importance of brief customer stops: “We occasionally have customers who quickly pull over and pop in.” Her manager, Peter Bromley, 54, echoed these sentiments. “Traffic flow has actually improved since they added another lane to a town that’s already struggling,” he observed.
Bromley further detailed the impact on local businesses:
- “We rely heavily on mail order now, like many others.”
- “The shop next door depends entirely on walk-in customers; they won’t get that passing trade anymore.”
- “There’s a real concern about the safety of deliveries. The loading bay will be on Lindop Street, making it dangerous for drivers reversing onto Bucknall New Road.”
Council Justification and Future Consultation
Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for transport, defended the council’s actions, explaining that they stemmed from concerns about illegal parking. “Following these concerns, we have reached out to those impacted by Bucknall New Road,” he said.
He continued: “We’ve received feedback and are planning further consultation on proposed traffic orders, including the introduction of red routes. We’re not able to provide specific timelines at this stage.”
The council maintains that these measures are necessary for several reasons:
- Improved road safety and accessibility for all drivers
- Enhanced reliability and punctuality of bus services
“Red routes play a key part in keeping buses reliable and on time,” Councillor Gordon-McCusker emphasized.