Same road repeatedly dug up with unjustified temporary lights causing daily gridlock and pollution

This section of road has been repeatedly dug up over the past two years, often in almost the same location and frequently with temporary traffic lights in place even when no works appear to be actively taking place. The works seem to occur almost monthly and regularly remain set up for long periods with no visible workforce on site.

Today’s layout in particular appears excessive and unnecessary. There is sufficient carriageway width for two-way traffic to pass safely without the need for temporary traffic signals or extensive barriers, yet lights and restrictions remain in place causing severe congestion and delays. Traffic is regularly at a standstill for long periods, leading to unnecessary engine idling, increased emissions, and worsening local air pollution for residents, pedestrians and businesses.

The ongoing congestion is also creating safety issues. When traffic queues for extended periods at temporary signals that appear unjustified, some road users begin ignoring the lights altogether. This includes vehicles driving through red temporary signals and cyclists proceeding without stopping or paying attention to the temporary controls. This creates a hazardous and unpredictable environment for all road users and pedestrians.

Under the Traffic Management Act 2004, the local authority has a statutory duty to secure the expeditious movement of traffic and minimise disruption from street works. Additionally, the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (NRSWA) and associated permit scheme regulations require that works are properly coordinated, necessary, and carried out efficiently.

The Safety at Street Works and Road Works Code of Practice (2013) requires that signing, lighting and guarding arrangements are proportionate and only used where genuinely required for safety. Equipment and traffic management should not remain in place when works are not actively being undertaken or where they unnecessarily obstruct traffic flow.

Given the frequency, duration and apparent lack of active work on many occasions, I request that Croydon Council urgently investigates: • Whether appropriate permits have been issued for each set of works • Whether traffic management (particularly temporary lights) is justified and proportionate • Why repeated works are occurring in the same location without effective coordination • Why sites are left in place when no work is being undertaken • Whether the authority is fulfilling its duty under the Traffic Management Act 2004 to minimise disruption and pollution

This situation has persisted for a prolonged period and is causing ongoing congestion, increased pollution and avoidable safety risks. Please review and take appropriate enforcement or coordination action to prevent unnecessary disruption and ensure traffic management is only used where genuinely required.