SURREY County Council has confirmed it is to reinstate the traffic island in Castle Street after a public outcry – albeit only as a temporary measure.
The pedestrian refuge at the centre of the notorious Castle Street/The Borough T-junction was removed during the road’s resurfacing in February.
Highways officers reasoned the island offered pedestrians no more safety than the ‘orcas’ that replaced it, and was persistently run over by HGVs.
However, after receiving a torrent of complaints, the council has reconsidered.
A spokesman said: “Surrey County Council has listened to feedback from people in Farnham about the removal of the Castle Street traffic island and we’re considering the options for a temporary replacement.
“We want pedestrians to feel safe when crossing the road, while also providing enough space for large vehicles like buses and HGVs to safely turn in and out of Castle Street.
“This is likely to mean any new island will not be in the centre of the junction.
“We’re considering a temporary island to balance current needs alongside the potential for future road layout changes.”