A CONTROVERSIAL one-way system under Stansty Bridge has officially been scrapped.
Members of Wrexham Council’s executive board agreed unanimously yesterday not to go ahead with the system on a permanent basis.
It comes after the system, costing £30,000, was trialled in September and attracted fierce opposition from motorists.
It was launched in response to concerns over the narrowness of the Rhosddu bridge and the safety of the pedestrian footpath underneath.
However, drivers and residents claimed it caused weeks of traffic mayhem.
In a consultation, which received 600 responses, only 10 per cent of people wanted the one-way system and footpath improvements to be made permanent.
Two petitions were also received in opposition to the idea.
Both local ward members welcomed the scrapping of the system.
Cllr David Bithell, who represents Stansty ward, said: “I’m very pleased a consultation period took place. As a result of this consultation the majority of those expressing a view wanted the flow of traffic beneath the tunnel to remain two-way.”
Gwersyllt West councillor Arfon Jones added: “I think this recommendation will be welcomed by the vast majority of people in the town, wherever they live.”
But Cllr Bithell, along with other members, expressed concerns that the suitability of Stansty Bridge for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists had still not been addressed.
He said: “As I have said previously, the issue of the tunnel will not be resolved until a partnership between Wrexham Council and Network Rail can be established to secure funds for major investment at the Stansty tunnel site. Only this will ensure that the tunnel is made suitable for the needs of the motorists, pedestrians and cyclists in the 21st century.”
Cllr Hugh Jones questioned whether a traffic light system had been considered, which would let traffic from both directions pass under the bridge in single file.
Highways officer Darren Williams said: “Because of the nearby junction with Rhosddu Road, traffic would back through the junction so there’s not enough space for signals to work.”
Councillors agreed to spend £70,000 in Stansty and Grosvenor wards using money left over after a trial on improving walking and cycling.
Cllr Bob Dutton, lead member for environment, said proposals being considered included getting rid of an existing zebra crossing on Rhosddu Road and replacing it with a traffic light controlled pedestrian crossing.
Another idea is to extend the 20mph zone near Ysgol Plas Coch.