Red route trial backed despite death threat claim

A council has green-lit an 18-month road safety trial that would see all stopping and loading banned in part of Luton, despite claims that people involved in the plans had received death threats.

Labour's Alia Khan told a council meeting there had been an "abhorrent social media campaign" against the red route proposals for Bury Park, which left some feeling unsafe.

But Luton Borough Council's executive backed the plan despite a call-in by opposition councillors.

Labour leader Tahmina Saleem said: "For years, people have told us Bury Park is too congested and people don't feel safe crossing the road. These measures are about improving safety while keeping it accessible and open for business."

The trial will see double red lines painted on some main roads with fines for parking, loading and waiting.

More parking spaces will be provided, including 120 at Luton Town Football Club, and the maximum stay in disabled parking bays will be increased to 90 minutes.

The measures are due to be introduced this autumn with reviews after three, six, nine and 12 months to assess the impact.

Saleem said: "We also want to reassure residents and businesses that we are not introducing new parking restrictions. Parking on double yellow lines is already illegal. Camera enforcement will help keep these roads clear, making it safer and helping traffic flow.

"We listened to what people told us during the consultation, which is why there will be a grace period for drivers picking up or dropping off passengers. We're also providing more nearby parking, longer loading times for businesses, improved disabled parking and action to tackle pavement parking."

However on 14 September, Saleem faces a no-confidence vote following a leadership challenge led by the Liberal Democrats.

It follows the departure from her party of eight councillors, most of whom have joined the authority's Independent Alliance.

At the meeting where the road safety trial was approved, opposition leader Amjid Ali told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: "The Labour administration has chosen to continue with the red route, despite no impact assessments to analyse the negative effects this will have on businesses and residents.

"Should there be a change in administration, then we'll consider all options available to address the parking and congestion issues within Bury Park."

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