MORE than 100 people crammed into St Peter's School Hall on Thursday to debate the proposed installation of three mini-roundabouts along Shortheath Road and Echo Barn Lane. The public meeting, chaired by Surrey county councillor David Munro, saw an introductory talk by Surrey's local transportation director Simon Hall. Outlining the history of the issue, which at one point saw proposals for 13 roundabouts along the road, the scheme was discussed at length by advocates and opponents. While the Wrecclesham bypass seems to be a distant dream, what became evident was that the overwhelming majority of residents wished to see speed reduced along the B3384. Last year, interactive vehicle signs and improved crossing points were introduced, but the proposed mini-roundabouts at the junctions of Manley Bridge Road, Little Green Lane and Green Lane, were halted by a hastily assembled petition of 1,219 signatures. Following a consultant's report, SCC embarked on a consultation programme over Easter. However, despite delivering 600 leaflets, a large number of residents were unaware of the scheme. "Sorry everybody didn't get them - clearly there were some people we missed out," said Mr Munro. Several residents reiterated the desire for something to be done, with a trial period mooted. One called for the draconian use of speed cameras or a community speedwatch scheme. Others argued that the area was not an accident black spot, with the roundabouts themselves causing more incidents than they solved, especially when used by HGV drivers. Conversely, supporters pointed to the dangers of entering Farnham from Frensham and the "damned lies" of statistics, which failed to tell the full story. A final straw poll saw 14 people supporting the mini -roundabouts but an overwhelming - but uncounted - majority against the scheme. After examining representations, SCC's local committee will make a final decision on the matter in January.
