RESIDENTS have called for different routes to be used for upcoming Coventry events.
They have hit out at the ‘consistent inconvenience’ of road closures.
Independent councillor Glenn Williams took forward residents’ concerns at a full council meeting yesterday (September 3).
He said residents have complained about closures continually affecting the same roads and areas, disproportionately on the rural fringes of the city.
The call for changes come ahead of the Coventry Half Marathon, the Northbrook Run and the Velo cycling event, which will all see widespread closures across the city.
Coun Williams said: “It always seems to be the same roads that are closed, especially in Coundon, Allesley and the rural areas.
“Residents would like to know if the cabinet member would consider using different routes for certain events so that it isn’t always the same residents who have to suffer consistent inconvenience.”
A written response to his question from city services cabinet member Patricia Hetherton (Labour) states: “The Cabinet Member is aware of the need to consider the impact on residents and businesses of the road closure plans for events.
“Event organisers propose the routes and all proposed road closures are considered in-depth and consulted on with our partners and internal colleagues.
“Road closures have to be approved by the highways service.
“Whilst routes are determined by the organisers, the council influences the routes and aims to ensure stewarding and publicity inform and assist residents during periods when roads are closed.
“These events are predominantly held on Sundays, to mitigate impact on residents as far as possible.
“While events make a significant contribution to the city, the cabinet member is mindful of the need for balance, and alternative routes are being considered for some events, including Velo in 2020.”
A petition with more than 1,000 signatures has already been created to cancel the next Vélo Birmingham and Midlands, which attracts thousands of cyclists, scheduled for June 28 next year.
Meriden resident Lewis Edwards launched the petition due to residents feeling ‘trapped’ in their own homes, due to road closures.
