Understand
New pedestrian island in Queniborough to be removed after making road too narrow for buses
Overview
A newly installed pedestrian island on Rearsby Road in Queniborough, Leicestershire, is to be removed temporarily because it left the road too narrow for Arriva Midlands buses to pass without mounting the pavement. The junction upgrade was carried out by developers David Wilson Homes, prompting Arriva to withdraw services from the village centre. Leicestershire County Council announced that the island will be taken out while a new design is drawn up, and a temporary free taxi service is being provided to connect residents to the nearest alternative bus stop 500 metres away.
Key points
- A newly installed pedestrian island in Queniborough has made Rearsby Road too narrow for buses.
- Arriva Midlands withdrew services 5 and 5A from the village centre because drivers were forced to mount the pavement.
- The junction work was completed by developers David Wilson Homes as part of a capacity upgrade.
- Leicestershire County Council stated that the pedestrian crossing point will be removed temporarily so buses can use the road.
- A free taxi shuttle is being operated to take residents from Rearsby Road to the nearest bus stop 500 metres away on Melton Road.
- Local councillor James Poland criticised the situation as a 'total shambles' and noted he had previously warned highways officials about the issue.