The Government’s plan, contained in the Integrated Traffic and Parking Plan, for improving traffic access to and from the South District comprises three projects:- the Trafalgar Interchange; the re-opening of Dudley Ward Tunnel to two way traffic; and the construction of a new road linking Rosia Road to Queensway via the dockyard.

The Dudley Ward Tunnel and access road protection and improvement project is well advanced, and is expected to open in October.

th July. The  Trafalgar Interchange Scheme is based on separating and deconflicting as many traffic streams as possible by the use of roundabouts and dedicated traffic lanes. Its effectiveness will thus depend on the access to and egress from the roundabouts, and the roundabouts themselves, being kept free of obstructions. This includes the full stretch of Main Street between Referendum Gate and the junction with Convent Ramp. This requires the strict policing of unauthorised parking and stopping at key places.

To achieve this, legislation has been passed creating “Blue Zones”. Blue Zones are physically marked on the road by a continuous blue line, and also by road signs at the start and finish of each blue zone line. The Road signs, which will be mounted on poles on the adjoining pavement, will read: - “Blue Zone. No Parking or Stopping. Immediate tow-away and a £100 fine.” It is the Government’s intention to fully resource strict, zero-tolerance compliance with these requirements.

A Government spokesman said: - “The Trafalgar Interchange Project has been completed on schedule, despite the financial failure of Haymills, the original contractor. Some people have commented that it has taken too long. It has not. It must be remembered that it has not been just a roads project. All utility pipes and wires beneath the area have been renewed as well.”