The South East Coast Ambulance Service is reopening the gate from the station to the A217.
It says this will cut the time it takes crews to reach 999 emergencies, while also reducing traffic through the often-busy residential area of the Horseshoe in Banstead.
Starting next Monday, contractors will reshape the curb running from the gate to the slip road leading on to the A217. This will widen the access area to the slip road and improve sight lines for traffic.
Other site work will include laying a new surface around the entrance and applying fresh road markings and warning hatchings.
“Being able to open the gate again is a great achievement. Every minute counts when we are responding to 999 calls, and this will mean our ambulances can get to public emergencies quicker,” said Vicky Knights, Head of Operations at Banstead.
“It also means our vehicles won’t need to pick their way out through local residential roads, so it’s good news for the community all around. I’d like to thank all those involved on council committees who have helped bring this to fruition.”
When the work starts, the slip road serving the gate will be coned off. The two lanes of the A217 will remain unaffected for traffic. The work is expected to be completed within four weeks.
Bosses say that despite signs warning of the need to keep the area clear, lorries have got used to parking in the slip road serving the entrance while the gate has been closed. Some parents also park on the slip road as part of their school run.
Stay tuned to Jackie for the latest traffic news across the period.
