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Temporary traffic order to be introduced on A360 Black Dog Crossroads

Wiltshire Council is trialling an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order (ETRO) on the A360 Black Dog Crossroads, near Devizes, to address a reported increase in road collisions and increased local concern.

Published 13 May 2024

Wiltshire Council is trialling an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order (ETRO) on the A360 Black Dog Crossroads, near Devizes, to address a reported increase in road collisions and increased local concern.

The ETRO will see the closure of the C20 spur road to the north of the crossroads. The spur road is narrow, with poor visibility to and from its junction with the A360. It is frequently used by motorists avoiding peak time queues at the main junction of the C20 and A360, and this can cause safety concerns. This trial scheme will look at whether closing this road reduces collisions and if there is an impact on the surrounding network.

The trial scheme will include an exemption for access into the adjacent fields, but through movement by motor vehicles will not be permitted. A barrier will be installed at the junction of the A360 and C20 spur road and signage will warn drivers of no through access.

This trial is the first stage of improvements to the crossroads; the council will also be realigning the junction at the crossroads in 2025.

Cllr Nick Holder, Cabinet Member for Highways, said: Following an increase in traffic collisions at this junction, along with raised concerns from local people, we have decided to move forward with an experimental order to allow us to determine its impact, particularly on the surrounding road network.

Currently, this is the most appropriate way to increase safety on this stretch of road, however, we will be listening to feedback from locals and motorists to determine whether this temporary change reduces risk at the junction, and ultimately reports of road collisions. If this trial is successful, the road closure could be made permanent.

This is just one part of our plans to make this section of road safer, as we're also looking to realign and improve visibility at the Black Dog crossroads junction to the south of this road in 2025.

It's a key priority in our Business Plan to have well-connected communities that can live safely, and this trial scheme is the first step in making this junction safer for motorists.

The decision to implement the ETRO was taken following reports of increased collisions and feedback from residents, with input from the Devizes Local Highway and Footway Improvement Group (LHFIG). The ETRO will remain in place for a maximum of 18 months while the effects are monitored and assessed, and further changes made if necessary. Interested parties may comment on the ETRO during its first six months from implementation. Once the consultation period has closed, all comments will be reviewed and a decision will be made whether to continue the Order on a permanent basis.

For information on Traffic Regulation Order consultations, people can visit Traffic Regulation Order consultations

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