Section of road permanently closes to motorists

A section of road has permanently closed to motorists following a public consultation.

West Berkshire Council said only cyclists and pedestrians would now be able to access the section of Kings Road in Newbury between Gordon Road (east) and Windsor Court.

The authority said concrete barriers would be put up after the peak traffic period earlier, with more permanent changes to road layouts and signage to follow "in the coming weeks".

It said the impact of the changes would be monitored.

The decision prompted dozens of people to comment when it was announced on social media.

Some described it as "barmy" and "flawed", while others said it would reduce noise for residents living on the stretch of road.

West Berkshire Council said: "We understand that changes like this take time to get used to.

"We'll be monitoring the area throughout the summer to see how traffic adjusts and to make sure everything is working as it should.

"Thank you for your patience and support as we make these improvements."

The council said new road signs and markings would be installed along both ends of Kings Road and the surrounding area, to direct traffic towards Hectors Way via the roundabout at Hambridge Lane.

There were some road closures on Wednesday evening to allow the road markings to be added.

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