A trial traffic light switch-off at a busy roundabout in Kesgrave has attracted praise from dozens of motorists after early signs that traffic flow has improved.

The trial at the Ropes Drive West roundabout that connects the Grange Farm estate to the A1214, began last week, and is set to finish on November 26.

But despite a backlog of traffic while temporary traffic lights were put in during the week leading up to the trial, residents and motorists have expressed a vast improvement in traffic flow already – particularly at peak times.

One online Ipswich Star reader, Grey Fox, commented: “Best to do away with these unnecessary lights.

“They serve no useful purpose and cause delays and hold ups.”

David White added: “I have now negotiated the roundabout at Ropes Drive, Kesgrave, six times in two days, and I haven’t had to queue once.

Commenting online, user Chalkyblue, said: “The difference is quite clear. Please councillors do not put these lights back, travelling through Kesgrave to Ipswich and back today was so much easier.”

The roundabout serves as a key junction for motorists to reach Ipswich town centre, Martlesham Heath, and the A12 and A14.

The trial has also been deliberately co-ordinated to include school and rush hour traffic, which councillors believe is essential in monitoring the progress.

Suffolk county councillor Robert Whiting, who along with councillor Christopher Hudson and Kesgrave Town Council helped to fund the trial, said: “We don’t know how the junction will cope, that’s the purpose of the trial.

“It’s important that people let us know their views during the trial so they can be considered as part of the decision making process.”

Motorists who have used the route are being encouraged to have their say, with user feedback set to be combined with camera footage and traffic flow data to establish whether the lights should be taken out.

The trial follows a similar test at the Ropes Drive East roundabout in 2008, which resulted in the lights there being permanently removed.

Those wishing to share their thoughts can email RMEastAreaHighways@suffolk.gov.uk.

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