Local drivers have been demanding access to a junction so they’re no longer forced to use the North Circular, reports Grace Howarth, Local Democracy Reporter

The North Circular Road in Bowes Park — Residents of the Bowes Park LTN are forced to use the North Circular Road to enter and exit

Residents have criticised Enfield Council over a “lack of communication” around proposed changes to a low-traffic neighbourhood (LTN) in Bowes Park.

A petition to allow residents living on 13 roads within the ‘Bowes Primary Area Quieter Neighbourhood’ to use the junction of Maidstone Road and Warwick Road was heard at an overview and scrutiny committee meeting in February, with councillors giving it their backing.

Jason Russell, the lead petitioner, complained that drivers who live within the LTN are forced to enter and exit via the North Circular Road, a major dual carriageway, often “trapping” residents in traffic.

His petition amassed 1,683 signatures and committee members voted unanimously to recommend the council consider opening the junction, which currently uses an automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) camera as a modal filter.

The council has now confirmed a trial will start at the end of August. But Jason has complained that, despite the positive news, a lack of communication following the February meeting had left residents unsure over what will happen.

He said: “They have not engaged with the 13 roads petition group on this matter, nor have they responded to individual direct resident concerns either, despite multiple approaches being made to them.

“It is a very sore subject with us here and their appalling lack of communication on several matters has been shocking to say the least.”

In response to questions about why there was a delay giving out information on the trial and clarifying the start date, Sabri Ozaydin, cabinet member for environment and placemaking, said: “After speaking with residents, the council has decided to test a new permit system.

“This will let some households drive through the junction at Maidstone Road and Warwick Road, as they currently have no other way to reach their homes by car except via the busy A406.”

He continued: “The council is getting everything ready for this trial and plans to start it by the end of August. The most recent update about the trial was posted on the council’s website on 11th July.

“Households that can get a permit will soon receive a letter explaining how to apply. We will continue to share updates online and we are committed to running this process in a well-managed and open way.”

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