Initial mixed reactions to Ashford's 'shared space' ring road scheme

As the new new road scheme in Ashford, Kent, is opened up to drivers and pedestrians, there have been mixed reactions to the new design. Cars, bikes and pedestrians now have equal priority in what is the first major 'shared space' project in the UK.

Kerbs, crossings and four sets of traffic lights have been removed from a mile-long section of the road bordering the town centre. The road width in Ashford has been narrowed, the surface covered with brick and the speed limit cut to 20mph.

Crossings and roundabouts have also been replaced at a total cost of £13m.

Pedestrians and cyclists must use eye contact to work out when to cross the street or give way to oncoming traffic.

The idea of a shared space first started in the Netherlands and has spread to other European countries. By increasing uncertainty and removing 'clutter' like signs and traffic lights, planners hope to force drivers to take more care.

The concept has already been tried on small stretches of road in west London and Brighton, but this is the first time it has been used on a major scale in the UK.

Local resident Mike H, writing in teh Ashford local paper, is not happy with the results. 'I now feel even less safe in my own town,' he says. 'Just because something works abroad, doesn't mean it will work here. Europe has a completely different mentality to driving.

'I think the idea that having shared space scares drivers into being more careful is rubbish. Why should drivers be even more nervous of pedestrians then they are already, considering the amount of people who think the shared space extends all over Ashford, especially around traffic lights?

'Officially, the police cannot enforce a 20mph limit...so when I cross the street who on earth is going to see my eyes attempting to make contact with theirs, while they're driving toward me at 29mph??

Paul Carter from Kent County Council, which is behind the scheme, said: 'People have to be mature about how it is used as a pedestrian zone and how motorists use it. That's where there is a little bit of friction.

'People are learning something new so they are cautious and wary. My instinct tells me they will get used to this much more easily than some people think and it will work.'

Motoring groups have expressed concern about the scheme, according to the BBC. The AA's head of road policy, Paul Watters, said: 'It is difficult to change the whole road system. We are educated to look out for signs and this is throwing away the rulebook.'

Both motorists and pedestrians have told the BBC that they are unhappy with the changes.

'You are sitting in traffic all day now. Before you could get round in two or three minutes, now it's 10 or 15,' said one taxi driver.

Another shopper said: 'There is no clear distinction between the road and the pedestrian area.'

Kent County Council says this is the first stage of a wider transport plan for Ashford and it won't be possible to judge the success of the scheme until the public has had time to get used to it.