Signs torn down in speed storm
Reporter: KEN BENNETT
Date published: 08 September 2009
A backlash against high-speed motorists has seen new road signs at a Saddleworth beauty spot flattened.
A wave of signs have appeared across villages allowing drivers to travel up to 60mph on narrow country lanes.
But worried locals believe the derestrictions pose a serious threat to children, walkers, horse-riders and other road users.
Two signs, showing the national 60mph speed limit, were erected at the junction of Church Road, Church Lane, Gellfield Lane and Running Hill Gate last week.
But now both have been pulled up, one leaving a gaping hole on a footpath, and the other sign left forlornly at the roadside.
Wayne Rawstron (47) is landlord of The Cross Keys, which stands on a hillside above Uppermill.
He said: “We want drivers to go slower — not be permitted to drive faster. It’s stupid to put signs up in a country area with narrow lanes.”
Julian Taylor (41) runs the Church Inn on Church Lane, near Saddleworth Parish Church, which is also in the designated derestricted zone.
He said: “The signs give out confusing messages. If, for example, you drove at high speed and were involved in an accident, you could actually be driving without due care and attention.
“The irony is the two signs which have been demolished have 30mph warnings fitted to the other side going down Church Road to Uppermill — it’s crazy.”
Parish councillor Ken Hulme has accused planners of a “common-sense bypass” by erecting new speed signs leading off the notorious A62 Oldham to Huddersfield Road.
He said: “I suppose there is some sort of mad logic in putting a derestricted sign next to the sign pointing to Saddleworth Parish Council Cemetery. Travelling at high speed along these narrow winding lanes is one of the quickest ways to end up buried there.
“If people want to spend money on rural roads, they could spend money filling in potholes which are reaching epidemic proportions.”
But Councillor Mohib Uddin, Cabinet member for regeneration, stressed the council is not encouraging drivers to speed up.
He said: “The Highway Code states speed limits are a maximum permissible upper limit — not a speed that has to be attained. Drivers should be aware of road conditions and drive accordingly.”
Cabinet member for environment and infrastructure, Councillor Mark Alcock, added: “Defacing signs is dangerous and irresponsible. Vandals will be prosecuted.
“If anyone has any information about these incidents I would urge them to call the council on 0161-770 6644 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555 111.”
