The deputy leader of Colchester Council says he has “made the case” for an exit barrier to be opened after Colchester United home games to reduce traffic congestion.
City and county councillor David King has responded to pleas by Colchester High Steward Sir Bob Russell and councillor Tim Young.
They called for a six-game trial for the barrier at the U's stadium car park to be lifted after matches.
Mr Young said the proposal was an “obvious solution” to congestion problems, while Sir Bob, who has supported the U’s for 70 years, claimed the city council’s deputy leader had “refused to do anything”.
Mr King said: “I am a Col U fan, and I have seen the delays some can face leaving the stadium car park. So, I understand why some fans want the barrier opened on to Boxted Road.
“I also understand how busy it can be for pedestrians. Why cycling and walking groups have concerns and why some residents would prefer the barrier to be kept for emergency access only.
“I see the need to find a new balance and have already made the case, speaking to officers and meeting the cabinet member for highways to ask they run a trial to allow the barrier from the Community Stadium Car Park towards Boxted Road to be lifted for one hour only after each home game.
“The ball is now with them. The next steps are also down to the club (who own the Stadium Travel Management Plan) and the two councils. I will do all I can to help and will update when we know more.”
Questioned whether communication between the councils, Essex Highways and the football club should have been better, Mr King said: “Yes. Communication makes for better decision-making.”
“But there will be a concern at the officer levels of both councils, because of their duty to ensure that any changes have a limited impact upon the road network.”
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