The temporary one-way system through the town's high street in Ware will be changing direction. This is in response to feedback from residents and businesses.
The reversal of this one-way system will take place at 5am on Thursday 13 August 2020. This is timed to avoid peak traffic flows, and minimal disruption on the highway.
The one-way system was introduced in May as part of a package of measures to support the town by providing more space for pedestrians as the country moved out of lockdown.
It was designed to make sure safe social distancing is possible and residents can move around the town in a way that meets guidance from Central Government.
These measures have been put in place by Hertfordshire Country Council and are not the actions of the Ware Town Council or East Herts District Council.
Following consultation with local people and businesses, Hertfordshire Country Council agreed that the one-way system would work better running west to east (Baldock Street to Bridge Foot/Star Street, through the High Street which will, in turn, offer improved access to essential services). Drivers wishing to travel west to east will be diverted up New Road, along Collett Road and The Bourne emerging on to Wadesmill Road.
Phil Bibby, Cabinet Member for Highways and Environment, said: "We want people to 'shop local' and it's important that we make it as safe as possible for people to do that. The Government has asked local councils to put measures in place to help people keep safe as activity returns to High Streets, and what we’re doing in Ware is an important part of that."
Buses
With the one-way system changing in Ware, buses will not be able to travel through the High Street towards the Priory. The diversion for bus routes in the town will be via New Road, Collett Road and The Bourne. Bus stops in the High Street will not be served in this direction.
Passengers should use the stops at Ware Crossing or New Road, buses heading towards the railway station through the town centre will make use of High Street stops, which will be re-opened.
Cyclists
Sometimes it’s not possible to accommodate the needs of cyclists, pedestrians and road users. The measures are temporary and, in these cases, Hertfordshire Country Council ask cyclists to dismount and walk through the pedestrianised areas.
One way East to West - New Road & The Bourne West to East
The boundaries and extent of the one-way system will not be changing as part of this alteration, though advance signage will be amended to ensure that drivers are directed along appropriate routes.
Hertfordshire Country Council is constantly listening to feedback on the temporary town centre measures across Hertfordshire and making changes where possible.