Dear Cllr Adam, I refer to your request for a response to a letter about parking opposite Simpasture Shops in Newton Aycliffe. The original plan was to create a layby at the location. However, during the design period it was established there are British Telecom cables beneath the footpath where the layby was proposed. For the layby to be created at this location, the BT cables would have to be lowered or re-routed, at significant cost. It was agreed instead to leave the footpath at its current height and strengthen it so that it can withstand the impact of parked vehicles. Existing bull-nosed kerbs were replaced with splayed kerbs to make it easier for vehicles to access the path. I hope this information is useful. Alan Ramsey Highway Design Engineer Durham County Council
INCONSIDERATE DRIVERS
Cllr Kate Hopper and I have worked closely with the local community to alleviate a long term parking problem caused by inconsiderate drivers. The raised kerb, as stated by the design officer, was a technical solution and therefore we had to seek a compromise to keep costs down. This installation of the new bays has been welcomed by many and supports road safety and pedestrians alike. The new sloped kerb is significantly lower and more accessible than the original footpath and careful drivers can negotiate it without causing damage to vehicles or the kerb. However, we cannot account for those inconsiderate drivers who continue to flout the law and park on the grass or in front of dropped kerbs. Councillor Eddy Adam
