Smiley SID urges drivers to slow down (From Knutsford Guardian)
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Smiley SID urges drivers to slow down
1:20pm Tuesday 24th January 2012 in News
CAMPAIGNERS have a new weapon in their battle against speeding drivers in Holmes Chapel – a Smiley SID.
The speed indicator device (SID), which lets motorists know how fast they are going, is being used in the village for the first time.
Cheshire East Council is allowing campaigners to use the SID after growing concerns about the number of vehicles which cut through the village due to its nearness to the M6.
Holmes Chapel Parish Council has teamed up with village volunteers who fear that a fatal accident is waiting to happen.
Clr Margaret Ranger, who has been leading the project, said: “Not only will the SID deter drivers from speeding but it will also collect valuable data that will help the parish council and Cheshire East highways determine the best solution to Holmes Chapel’s traffic problems.
“Residents want something done before a child or a senior citizen gets seriously injured or even killed.
“Action has been taken in other local towns, and now something must be done in Holmes Chapel.”
The SID has already been used in Macclesfield Road, and is currently located in Middlewich Road.
It will make its way to London Road, Chester Road and Station Road in the coming weeks.
It is not a moment too soon for residents who have been blighted by the noise from HGVs for decades.
Grahame Eley, of Holmes Chapel Residents’ Traffic Group, said: “From 4am every day, heavy vehicles start cutting through the village to complete their journey, and the house starts vibrating.
“There’s been traffic problems historically in Holmes Chapel for more than 20 years.
“There’s been attempts to try and progress the issue, and nothing’s really happened, so to have this collaboration feels like the campaign is gaining momentum.”
Information gathered by the SID will help Cheshire East Council determine what action needs to be taken.
Clr Ranger, of Balmoral Drive, said: “We have narrow roads in the historic centre of the village, and the HGVs are having to mount the pavement because of their size.
“It causes horrendous problems.”
Volunteers are needed to help set up the Smiley SID in London Road, Chester Road and Station Road. If you can help, call 01477 533934, email office@holmes chapelparishcouncil.gov.uk or call in at 1 Church Walk.
