Even Council weren't told about Chiswick High Road closure plans
There has been an angry reaction from residents over what has been described as 'roadworks by stealth'. Many people living in the area were unaware of the plans for the works which have already commenced and will lead to a closure of Chiswick High Road south of Chiswick Roundabout (A205).
The annoyance was compounded when it emerged that Transport for London, which has responsibility for the road, had not even informed Hounslow Council that the works were taking place. The Council were alerted to the works by a posting on the ChiswickW4.com discussion board.
One resident commented, "In a week when we found out Transport for London is to build the Acton by-pass through Chiswick a little bit of consideration over the latest works was in order. We appreciate the work has to be done but there is no reason to keep it a secret."
The diversions in place are causing confusion locally with drivers complaining that they are being directed to dead-ends.
The lack of communication is surprising given that residents were assured that the various agencies involved would try and co-ordinate projects better to avoid the massive traffic jams that occurred in Chiswick recently when a series of key roads were all restricted or closed at the same time due to road works.
The work is to improve the A205 Chiswick High Road between Kew Bridge and Chiswick roundabout. The road will be resurfaced followed by the laying of new anti-skid treatment across the junctions.
To minimise disruption the work will be undertaken during 10 night time sessions on Monday to Thursday between 21.30pm and 06.00am from 20th September to 8th October 2004. Part of the resurfacing work on the southbound carriageway of Chiswick High Road will require the road to be closed. The closure will take place between 8am and 12.30pm on a Sunday between 17th October and 31st October 2004 with traffic to be diverted along the A4 and down Ealing Road.
Thus far the works are not reported to have caused any serious disruption or tailbacks but the forthcoming closure on a Sunday is likely to lead to substantial disruption in the area. If we are informed in advance we will publish notifications on the site and in our weekly newsletter.
If you require further detailed information, contact Michael Adelman or Richard Fuller on 020 8838 9919.
September 23, 2004