Proposals to build a new flyover at Fiveways Junction have been rejected by Croydon Council because of the impact it would have on neighbouring residents and Duppas Hill.
Instead, the council’s cabinet is set to recommend a widening of the existing bridge carrying the A23 Purley Way over the railway, as well as widening Epsom Road to accommodate two-way traffic.
The two proposals were forumlated by Transport for London to improve traffic flow at Fiveways, where the A23 meets the A232, one of the busiest intersection points in the borough. It will announce its preferred option early next year ahead of a wider public consultation planned for next autumn.
Councillor Kathy Bee, cabinet member for transport and environment, said: “It is vital we invest in improving our road networks to ensure we are able to manage the increasing levels of traffic as a result of the huge amount of growth being delivered in our borough.
"Tackling congestion at Fiveways Corner is central to this aspiration, as it is one of the busiest junctions and intersections in Croydon.
“Both proposals would improve journey times, pedestrian crossings and cycle links across the A23. However we feel that the recommendation we have put forward would have less of an impact on those living in the immediate area.
"The alternative option of building a new flyover would have a negative visual impact on a larger number of homes, and would also mean losing part of Duppas Hill Park.
“I also welcome the fact that following the comments of those who attended the exhibitions, TfL has produced revised designs for Fiveways Corner itself, which work with both proposals and bring the potential for greater improvement to the pedestrian environment and public realm.”
According to the council, the flyover proposal would have meant losing the equivalent of one-and-a-half football pitches in Duppas Hill Park as well as 30 mature trees.
Meanwhile, the local atuhority will ask TfL to ensure that the Waddon Hotel, an important local building, is retained.
TfL completed a consultation on transforming Fiveways in March, with 81 per cent of respondents supporting or partially supporting the principle of a road modernisation scheme at Fiveways.