Traffic lights plan could be scrapped

The signals were due to replace the two mini-roundabouts at The Royal Oak pub where the A259 Chichester Road, North Bersted Street and Chalcraft Lane meet.

The requirement for signals was part of the initial agreement between the developers of 650 homes and West Sussex County Council.

It was seen as a way of helping the junction cope with the extra traffic generated by the housing.

But county transport manager Chris Meeus told Arun district councillors the signals were unlikely to proceed.

The money would be spent on other highways matters in the area. Nearby residents and their representatives would be asked for their views.

Councillors welcomed the news. They feared the lights would add to the traffic congestion which is a peak-time feature of the roundabouts.

Cllr Andrew Evans (Bognor Marine) said: "Traffic lights at the Royal Oak would be a grave error. I don't think they should be done before, during or after this development.

"They would be injurious to traffic flow at that point. It should stay as two mini roundabouts."

Cllr Simon McDougall (Bersted) agreed. "Traffic lights at that junction would make matters worse, " he stated.

Cllr Ricky Bower (East Preston) added: "We should wait to see the effect of this new estate on Bersted's traffic before the money is spent to improve this junction."