Complaints over new road lay-out (From Penarth Times)

Complaints over new road lay-out

PENARTH'S controversial one-way system has continued to be a hot subject of debate this week.

But while some residents have argued about the difficulty of reversing into chevron parking spaces, other locals have highlighted the "negative" effect of redirected traffic on nearby roads.

Irene Meredith, of Summerland Crescent, Llandough, said: "Car drivers are stopping suddenly, as they cannot see the spaces until they are on top of them due to the angle of the spaces, causing the car behind to brake quickly.

"Drivers are also so intent on seeing parking spaces, they are not looking at the road, therefore putting pedestrians at risk."

Mrs Meredith added: "The tables outside cafes on the front are not fit to sit on due to exhaust fumes. We need a proper car park on the prom.

"This most certainly has not improved the front, in fact, I feel it is most detrimental to Penarth. Please, let's get back to normal."

Doug Owen, of Elizabethan Court, compared Penarth's scheme to a "better" one in England.

He said: "I'm a frequent visitor to Clevedon in Somerset which has a similar frontage as Penarth.

"Cars at Clevedon are parked nose to the seafront which is so much easier for the motorist and exhaust fumes are dispersed before they reach the cafes."

He added: "I know many motorists are finding to park at a slant at the Esplanade rather difficult, and would suggest my suggestions be considered."

David Knapp, of Marine Parade, took photos of his once relatively quiet road to show the effect of redirected traffic (see picture).

Before the scheme started, traffic heading towards Penarth town centre often used the Esplanade, but now, it must travel by an alternative route, often using Marine Parade.

l What's your opinion on the one-way system? Write to Ceri Garner at Penarth Times, phone 2070 7234 or email penarthtimes@gwent-wales.co.uk