Permission denied for works near Bushey Arches to restart

Yesterday (February 22) proposals for multi-way signals in Aldenham Road were shut down, until the council can speak with Affinity Water about its plans.

Many Watford and Bushey residents were caught up in delays over the weekend and on Monday morning (February 20) after temporary four-way traffic lights were installed near the Chalk Hill and Aldenham Road junction.

Traffic approaching Bushey Arches (Image: Sullivan Buses)Many were then left furious after it emerged that even though the lights were put in place, Affinity Water had not been given a permit to do the works.

Those impacted included Watford mayor Peter Taylor, buses, and local motorists who were shocked by the “horrendous”, “crazy”, and “complete standstill" traffic.

After being asked to remove the lights on Monday, Affinity did so and apologised to residents for “any inconvenience caused”.

It also confirmed the works “did not proceed as planned”.

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Yesterday morning (February 22) Affinity Water confirmed it had applied for a four-day permit from April 3, which would allow the company to complete the job .

Hertfordshire County Council has confirmed it refused the permit application for April yesterday afternoon.

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A spokesperson said: “We need to speak to them about traffic management plans before we can approve any permits for work at this location.”

The Watford Observer understands that the council intends for there to be a sit-down meeting with the company first.

Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Highways & Transport in Hertfordshire County Council Stephen Giles-Medhurst said any future permit needs to be scrutinised.

Traffic approaching Bushey Arches (Image: Sullivan Buses)

“This is why we have to have a permit system," he said.

“Part of the process has to be that they agree what would be suitable traffic management measures.

“We can’t have the same situation occurring again, there needs to be very careful consideration.”

Potential measures to limit the impact on traffic include restricting the hours lights are in place, having someone on site to control them manually, or not using four-way lights.