Bury Park traffic improvements trial to go ahead

The council’s Executive committee approved the traffic improvement scheme after being asked to reconsider its original decision at an extraordinary meeting of the full council.

The plans follow extensive technical work, public engagement and consultation with residents, businesses, faith groups and other stakeholders.

The measures include:

• improving pedestrian safety by removing parked cars around formal crossing points
• introducing footway parking restrictions to stop cars parking illegally, keeping pavements clear and accessible for pedestrians
• introducing an 18-month trial red route, including a grace period to allow drivers to pick up and drop off passengers without receiving a fine
• increasing parking availability in the area, including 120 spaces at Luton Town Football Club for shoppers and visitors to use every day of the year, except on matchdays and the day before a match
• extending loading bay hours from 7pm-7am to 7pm-10am and increasing the maximum stay from 30 minutes to 45 minutes
• increasing the maximum stay in disabled parking bays from 60 minutes to 90 minutes.

The measures are being introduced in response to long-standing concerns about congestion, dangerous parking and road safety in Bury Park.

Councillor Tahmina Saleem, Leader of Luton Council, said: “For years, people have told us Bury Park is too congested and that too many people don’t feel safe crossing the road. These measures are about improving safety while keeping Bury Park accessible and open for business.

“We also want to reassure residents and businesses that we are not introducing new parking restrictions. Parking on double yellow lines is already illegal. Camera enforcement will help keep these roads clear, making it safer and helping traffic flow.

“We listened to what people told us during the consultation, which is why there will be a grace period for drivers picking up or dropping off passengers. We’re also providing more nearby parking, longer loading times for businesses, improved disabled parking and action to tackle pavement parking.”

The measures will be introduced later this autumn as an 18-month trial, with enhanced monitoring and reviews after three, six, nine months and again after 12 months to assess their impact.

Cllr Saleem added: “We’ll keep listening to residents, businesses and the wider community before any long-term decisions are made.

“Our priority is simple: making Bury Park a safer place for everyone who lives, works, shops and visits the area. That’s what Getting It Done is all about.”