Rush hour chaos as Lancaster one-way system is partially down to one lane

The area of King Street by the former Waterstones building on the corner of Market Street has been cut to one lane while essential safety work is carried out on the building – which also houses the King’s Arms Hotel.

This led to a severe backlog of traffic throughout the entire one-way system, with delays of up to an hour and traffic backed up as far as Caton Road.

Lancaster resident Joshua Brandwood said the layout was dangerous due to the footpath also being closed.

“Pedestrians are now being forced onto the road if they are coming from the train station/Marsh etc,” he said.

“Although I appreciate the need to carry out urgent restoration work, I remain concerned about the direct impact on road users, pedestrians and local businesses.

"Like many this morning, I was caught out by these works on Sunday whilst walking with my wife and child from Lancaster Train Station to the city centre.

“As we approached the old Waterstones corner, we realised the traffic lights at the crossing were switched off. The footpath closure meant we had no choice but to cross at that point. Thankfully, a driver was kind enough to let us cross safely.

“It was only after we crossed that we realised there was a temporary crossing just outside R&B Estate Agents. However, pedestrians still have to cross on Market Street which currently has its traffic lights switched off.

“I have reported this as a matter of urgency to Lancashire County Council and have offered an alternative solution via email to Cabinet Member for Highways, Charlie Edwards.

“My suggestion asks whether the temporary crossing outside R&B Estate Agents could be moved to where the traffic lights are located in front of the old Waterstones.

“Alternatively, the council could close the footpath further up and set up an additional temporary crossing just before the Royal Kings Arms Hotel entrance so pedestrians can cross safely and access the crossing in front of R&B Estate Agents.”

A Lancashire County Council spokesman said the decision was made on Friday evening for safety reasons, due to the building work being carried out.

Lancaster City Council have been contacted for comment.