Surrey High Street Barrier Plan Faces Concerns From Local Residents

Surrey may get barriers on its high street. These barriers would block cars during the day. Some worry this won’t stop e-bikes, and delivery drivers also cause concerns.

Surrey County Council wants these new barriers. They would go at each end of Staines high street, stopping cars and bikes driving through mid-day.

The high street is already car-free some hours. Vehicles are banned from 9:30 AM to 5 PM due to a traffic rule. Deliveries use the street earlier and later, allowing market traders to set up stalls then too.

Rising bollards once blocked vehicles until 2015. Damage led to their disuse, and the council says repairs and replacement are too pricey.

The council suggests manual barriers instead, managed by a parking officer. They will block unwanted cars, allowing police to enforce charges.

People say e-bikes are the biggest hazard. Residents want action versus speeding e-bikes, and are also worried about delivery drivers, who they think create a mess.

One person said couriers treat it like their own carpark. Another person says bikes get too close and go too fast at night.

Bicycles and e-scooters are not allowed there, but the council cannot physically block them as blocks would also stop wheelchairs and prams.

People want the barriers to look good, with one person asking for nice colors and stating they do not need more neon furniture.

Emergency services also get a say. Standard keys in padlocks will open them, allowing emergency access.

The council website has more info, and you can comment until April 7.