The proposals aim to make walking, cycling, and public transport more appealing for short journeys. This initiative is part of the West Sussex Transport Plan (WSTP), which aligns with the County Council’s goal of fostering a sustainable and prosperous local economy.
The Hazelwick and Tushmore junctions serve as key access points for education, employment, and local services, but their heavy use contributes to traffic congestion, noise, and air pollution affecting nearby communities. The proposed changes are designed to improve traffic flow, enhance safety for all road users, and promote environmentally friendly travel options such as public transport, walking, and cycling.
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As part of a broader strategy, the Council is also supporting the transition to electric vehicles to further reduce environmental impact. Public feedback will play a crucial role in shaping the final plans for these vital junctions.
Cllr Joy Dennis, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport at West Sussex County Council, said: "We want to improve the Hazelwick and Tushmore junctions in Crawley so that the junctions are better for everyone travelling by public transport, bike, car and on foot, I less impact on nearby residents. Very often the best ideas about local traffic issues come from people living and travelling in the area, so it's really important that we hear from them. Our proposals are at an early stage, and we really want to hear the views of residents and users of these junctions to help us shape the designs. I encourage everyone with an interest to use the online questionnaire to tell us what they think."
The proposals being considered include bus priority, the creation of additional space, and improved crossing points for cycling and walking. At the Hazelwick junction, measures are also being considered to improve safety and reduce noise alongside the planned introduction of traffic signals as part of the Forge Wood development.
The council's highways team will use feedback from the consultation to help develop designs.
The schemes are at an early stage of development and likely to depend on securing Government grants and developer funding, so it could be several years before any construction could start.
