Concerns Over New Ambulance Station Access in Scarborough

Monday, 10 October 2022 06:00

By Matthew Pells

Concerns have been raised about traffic on Woodland's Drive in Scarborough when the town's new ambulance station is built there.

The road provides access to two schools, raising concerns about emergency vehicles moving around during pick up and drop off times.

But planners in Scarborough say they are satisfied that the new ambulance station won't cause traffic problems on the road.

Planning officer - Robin Forrester - says the ambulance service and highways department are satisfied that it won't be a problem.

Planning permission was granted for the new station last week, which will be adjacent to the hospital.

The road also provides access to two schools, planners say new keep clear boxes will be introduced at the entrances to the schools, but councillor Bill Chatt wonders if that's enough.

One to the plans highlighted concerns about the location of the site between two schools and children “crossing Woodlands Drive with no thought for other road users”.

The objection added:

“Pedestrian school children also appear to like to see who can touch moving cars as they make their way across Woodlands Drive, especially slower moving vehicles as they approach junctions.”

However, council planning officers decreed that following “extensive” conversations with the applicant and the Highway Authority, adequate amendments could be made to avoid issues.

The council report states:

“It is apparent that with amendments to Woodlands Drive – a pedestrian refuge crossing and ‘keep clear’ signage at Woodlands Academy and the site entrance – that any congestion can be managed and ambulances allowed to exit under blue lights.”