'Living screen' at roundabout in Poole splits opinion

The green metal fence with ivy growing on it has been installed in the middle of Dorset Way dual carriageway on the approach to Tower Park Roundabout in Poole.

BCP Council’s deputy leader said once the plants have fully grown drivers will be encouraged to slow down as they get to the roundabout and reduce the risk of a crash.

However, residents on social media became engaged in a detailed debate, with a split in support and opposition to the ‘living screen’.

The 'living screen' on the approach to Tower Park Roundabout in Poole (Image: NQ)

Those in favour said it helped with the flow of traffic and made people think about their speed, while those against it said it blocked their view of vehicles on the roundabout and made it more dangerous.

Councillor Millie Earl, BCP Council deputy leader and portfolio holder for connected communities, said: “Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council has installed a living screen of ivy in the central reservation approaching Tower Park roundabout in Poole, which has a history of serious road traffic incidents.

“The ivy is yet to fully develop, but once it does the screen will become less transparent and will encourage drivers to slow down and give way where necessary, reducing the risk of a collision. We also hope that this will help to increase capacity on the often congested southbound arm.

Cllr Millie Earl (Image: BCP Council)

“We are committed to keeping our roads and road users safe, and the measures we have taken have proven to reduce road casualties by approximately 50 per cent in other areas across the conurbation.

“We will continue to closely monitor the impact of this measure.”

BCP Council came under scrutiny in past years when it installed similar screens in both Castle Lane East and Castle Lane West on the approaches to the Cooper Dean Roundabout in Poole.

Jack Cousens, head of roads policy at the AA, told Daily Echo: “Roadside meadows are liked by the majority of drivers based on when we have surveyed our members.

“They say they like them not only for environmental and biodiversity benefits for everyone but also they provide a bit of colour and better driving experience compared to walls or metal.

“However, we would draw the line when it comes to major junctions, roundabouts and the like. That is when it is essential that sight lines are not impacted by the growth that is ongoing.

“Therefore, local authorities have a responsibility that it does not become an infringement and they need to take the necessary steps to stop that from happening.”