A traffic survey is set to be commissioned as plans to close a country road to nearly all vehicles progresses.

In October, Hertfordshire County Council accepted a petition signed by more than 1,200 people to restrict traffic in Little Green Lane in Croxley Green.

The petition, launched by Liberal Democrat councillors in Three Rivers, calls for the closure of two sections of the road except for use by the emergency services and local farm traffic.

The councillors believe Little Green Lane is not suitable for vehicles, citing the "hundreds" of residents who walk the lane for exercise.

Watford Observer: Little Green Lane, Croxley GreenLittle Green Lane, Croxley Green

Croxley Green councillor Margaret Hofman said previously: "Traffic levels have increased in Little Green Lane and a greater number of vehicles have been using, or attempting to use, the unpaved road.

"It unfortunately has also led to it becoming a regular site for fly-tipping. Without action now, this beautiful part of Croxley Green risks being damaged irreversibly."

The county council says there have been 22 fly tipping incidents recorded between September 2019 and September 2021, leading to one fixed penalty notice being issued.

Watford Observer: The sections of Little Green Lane the petition calls to be shut to traffic. Credit: Google MapsThe sections of Little Green Lane the petition calls to be shut to traffic. Credit: Google Maps

At a highways and cabinet panel meeting today (January 31), councillors were told the next step is set to be the undertaking of a traffic survey in Little Green Lane to find out the level of current use and what may be most appropriate to help restrict traffic.

Options include a traffic regulation order and signage, but a removable gate or barrier, and even camera enforcement is being considered - although the council does not currently have powers for the latter.

A permanent physical barrier, that restricts traffic in Little Green Lane between Sarratt Road and Little Green, and also further up towards Lincoln Drive, appears to have been ruled out.

Watford Observer: Councillors handing the petition in at County Hall in autumn 2021Councillors handing the petition in at County Hall in autumn 2021

Despite more than 1,000 people supporting the closure, the council recognises any consultation as a result of an experimental traffic regulation order may be subject to objections, which could lead to further consultations and even a public inquiry.

The council estimates it will cost in the region of £20,000 to undertake public engagement, consultation, completion of a permanent traffic regulation order, design, and implementation of signs.

It is anticipated that funding is allocated from county councillors' highway's locality budgets.

This petition coincides with an ongoing planning inquiry at Killingdown Farm in Little Green Lane after Three Rivers District Council rejected plans for 160 homes on the farmland.