URGENT UPDATE: Chaos at Altira Park in Herne Bay has left motorists feeling like hostages due to extensive roadworks. As of Monday, four-way traffic lights were installed at the roundabout, causing severe delays for drivers exiting the busy retail estate. Some motorists report waiting up to 40 minutes just to leave, impacting access to major stores like Sainsbury’s and the new David Lloyd leisure club.
Contractors from utility firm Stark are currently working to improve energy efficiency at the site. In a bid to alleviate the mounting frustration, they have pledged to extend work hours and hope to reduce the four-way system to two traffic lights. This adjustment aims to ease the traffic flow on Margate Road, which is part of the access route to the A299 Thanet Way.
A spokesperson for Stark confirmed, “We are actively discussing the delays with the council. Our team is manually controlling the traffic lights to help reduce wait times.” They also reassured the public that efforts are in place to monitor traffic closely on the slip-road of the A299.
Local resident Emma Young described her experience navigating the chaos, stating, “It was like a hostage situation! The traffic was queued down every entrance and exit, making it almost impossible to find a parking space, especially for those with disabilities.” After finally completing her shopping, she faced another 40-minute wait to exit the parking lot.
Authorities have yet to respond to repeated inquiries from the public regarding this ongoing situation. The current work is slated for completion by January 23, but with the extended hours promised, there may be hope for drivers sooner than expected.
Motorists are urged to plan alternative routes to avoid the congestion as the situation develops. Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.
