New roundabout planned to improve safety on trans-Pennine trunk road

The new road layout will replace an existing junction at Fulshaw Cross, between Millhouse Green and the Flouch roundabout, though full details of its design are not expected to be finalised for a few weeks.

It will form part of a package of measures designed to help protect all road users, which will also include the installation of a shared pathway for pedestrians and cyclists from the Hoylandswaine roundabout to a railway bridge on the approach to Penistone.

Coun Andrew Millner told Penistone Town Council other improvements would include new road signs, making speed restrictions clearer and the instigation of a new Traffic Regulation Order, to control parking, at Millhouse Green.

Work has already started on clearing vegetation for the new pedestrian/cycle paths, which will involve road closures over the next few weeks.

“The junction above Fulshaw Cross is being changed from a junction to a mini-roundabout,” he said.

“It is still to be finalised, it will be determined as the weeks go by.”

Coun Millner has also promised to press for improvements to ease traffic congestion outside Penistone Grammar School, which is about to be expanded to take an additional 250 students.

Town Coun Ann Rusby described traffic around the school as “chaotic”.

“They now have teachers out, trying to let the buses and cars in and out,” she said.

“It is not ideal having one entrance for coming in and going out. There is no proper facility for children to cross the road, it is so dangerous. Children’s safety is important,” she said.

Coun Millner said he had suggested a full review of traffic was needed as part of the planning application process for the extension.

“I hope to ensure a proper solution is found. It won’t be a quick thing, but I intend to see some changes made,” he said.