Councillor Jennifer Warren, Portfolio Holder for Transport and Planning, approved the introduction of a traffic signal-controlled junction at the B4429 Ashlawn Road / Barby Road / Onley Lane in Rugby. This decision was made after a previous deferral to allow for a site visit and consideration of an objection.

Proposed Traffic Signal Junction B4429 Ashlawn Road / Barby Road / Onley Lane, Rugby

The meeting approved the introduction of a traffic signal-controlled junction, including pedestrian facilities and a toucan crossing, at the intersection of Ashlawn Road, Barby Road, and Onley Lane in Rugby. This decision was made in accordance with section 23 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, subject to the necessary Highways Act 1980, section 278 agreement being in place.

The proposal stems from a planning application (R13/2102) granted by Rugby Borough Council for a significant residential development of up to 860 dwellings and a potential primary school. A condition of this planning permission requires the developer to implement improvements to four junctions on the A426 / B4429, including the conversion of the Ashlawn Road / Barby Road / Onley Lane crossroads into a signal-controlled junction.

During the technical review of the proposed junction, it was identified that the existing southern verge and cycleway would be impacted to facilitate carriageway widening. Additionally, the vehicular access to Upper Rainsbrook Lodge, located on the southwest corner of the junction, would be affected. While National Cycle Route no.41 was to be realigned, concerns were raised that this would reduce the space for vehicles exiting or entering the property and increase the potential for conflict between cyclists and vehicles.

One objection was received from the owners of Upper Rainsbrook Lodge, who had previously objected to the scheme in 2017. Their concerns included the detrimental impact on access to their property, the danger to cyclists and pedestrians, the impact on services such as waste collection and deliveries, increased pollution, loss of privacy, and the loss of the rural aspect due to the removal of plants and trees.

To address these concerns, Warwickshire County Council proposed installing a vehicle detection loop within the vehicular access to Upper Rainsbrook Lodge. This loop would trigger an all-red phase for other traffic signals, allowing vehicles to safely exit the property. Officers also clarified that sufficient space would remain within the access for vehicles to wait safely, and for cyclists and pedestrians to pass. Measures were also outlined to retain existing vegetation and trees surrounding the property to mitigate the impact on privacy and the rural aspect.

Warwickshire Police were consulted and supported the proposals. Councillors Glover, Keeling, and Dahmash were also aware of the proposals and their alignment with the planning condition. The decision to proceed with the traffic signal-controlled junction was made, acknowledging that highway authorities are expected to cooperate in the implementation of schemes approved as part of the planning process, unless exceptional circumstances dictate otherwise.

The introduction of traffic signal-controlled junctions with pedestrian and toucan crossings is intended to create an integrated pedestrian and cycling network, reduce conflict between different road users, and encourage walking and cycling. These facilities are designed to accommodate the needs of people with physical and sensory disabilities, including audible and tactile indicators for the visually impaired. The new junction is also expected to improve safety by alleviating issues caused by the current layout, where opposite side road junctions can lead to driver confusion regarding priority. Furthermore, it aims to reduce traffic speeds on all approaches, addressing concerns about excessive speeds previously recorded on Ashlawn Road.

The costs for the works will be fully funded by the developer through a Section 278 agreement, with approval to add the scheme to the capital programme having been granted in 2017.

The decision was formally approved on 23 February 2026, following a previous deferral on 13 February 2026. The full details of the decision and the reasons behind it can be found in the Signed Decision - Proposed Traffic Signal Junction B4429 Ashlawn Road Barby Road Onley Lane Rugby. Further information on the proposed scheme, including plans and objections, is available in the Public reports pack Monday 23 February 2026 15.30 Portfolio Holder DecisionsLeader Decisions.