Work has begun today on new safer crossings for children near schools in Welwyn Garden City.

Works are taking place on Digswell Park Road, close to Monk's Walk School and Knightsfield School, with lane closures between Knightsfield and Digswell Park Road in place until the work concludes in early September, with traffic signals facilitating access.

Then, from early to mid September, Hertford Road will be closed between Station Road and Harmer Green Lane for further works close to the The Holy Family Catholic Primary School and Waterside Academy.

A diversion route via Hertford Road, B1000 Waterside, A1000 Mundells and Bessemer Road will be put in place and clearly signposted.

Residential access will be allowed but only from the north of Hertford Road between Station Road and the viaduct, except for short periods of time to install speed cushions.

There will be no vehicle access to Digswell Tennis Club or the Digswell Park Road Car Park, but pedestrian and cycle access through Digswell Park Road will remain open.

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And finally, night works will be carried out on Bessemer Road from 8pm to 5am until late September, limiting overnight access to Knightsfield via Digswell Road or the Bessemer Road roundabout, while traffic signals will facilitate access during the day.

"As part of our Safer Routes to School programme, the improvements at Digswell Park Road will create safe and accessible connections between residential areas, schools, and local amenities," read a statement on Hertfordshire County Council's website. 

"This includes crossing improvements at Bessemer Road and Hertford Road, and new speed cushions on Hertford Road.

"Delivery of new walking and cycling facilities at Digswell Park Road is due to start the week commencing August 14, and is due to be completed in late September 2023.

"The works are being carried out in phases to minimise disruption. Please note that dates are subject to weather and construction conditions and may be subject to change."

The Safer Routes to School programme is designed to promote safer, more environmentally sustainable and healthier ways of getting to and from school, with particular emphasis on walking and cycling.