Residents of Oxshott, Surrey, are advocating for stricter regulations on Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) following a surge in traffic-related issues. A petition signed by over 450 locals urges Surrey County Council to enforce existing overnight bans more effectively, citing safety concerns and noise disturbances. Campaigners argue that despite previous measures, such as a reduced speed limit and an overnight HGV restriction, enforcement has been lacking, allowing many lorries to ignore the rules.
The A244, which connects major routes, now sees between 17,000 and 20,000 vehicles daily, including over 500 HGVs. Residents report that many vehicles exceed the speed limit, with traffic surveys indicating that nearly two-thirds of vehicles do so after entering the village. This situation poses significant risks, especially for children walking to school, as there are no controlled crossings or continuous pavements in parts of the village.
To address these issues, the petition calls for the installation of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras, speed cameras, and improved road signage. Additionally, residents seek traffic-calming measures and better road surfaces to reduce noise and enhance safety. The campaign highlights the need for urgent action to protect the community and improve living conditions.
As the petition awaits formal consideration by the council, residents remain hopeful that their voices will lead to meaningful changes. The outcome could set a precedent for how local authorities manage HGV traffic in residential areas, potentially influencing similar campaigns across the UK.
Source: GB News
