The mini-roundabout at Elstree & Borehamwood railway station could soon be given priority to pedestrians.

Officers at Hertfordshire County Council have been looking at ways to improve safety at the extremely busy roundabout, which is often gridlocked at rush hour.

Traditional roundabouts operate on the principle of allowing traffic to pass through as quickly as possible.

But the planned ‘continental’ style of roundabout, for the Station Road junction, would have zebra crossings on each ‘arm’.

And that means that at any point it’s the pedestrians that would have the right of way.

The approach stems from the council’s new LTP4 strategy, which aims to ensure pedestrians and cyclists are given greater priority on highways.

And the scheme was presented to councillors on the highways and environment cabinet panel on September 14.

At the meeting, it was reported that highways officers had initially looked at the installation of traffic signals at the Station Road roundabout, which is close to the railway station and to the west of the town centre..

Although this would have speeded up traffic flow, it would have delayed the many pedestrians.

And that’s when they came up with the design for a ‘continental’ style roundabout, with zebra crossings on each arm.

The report says: “This proposal will not operate as effectively for traffic as a signal controlled junction, as pedestrians will be able to dominate the junction.

“The style of a continental roundabout will mean that vehicles will travel through it more slowly than a standard British design meaning it is likely to be easier for cyclists to navigate the junction.

“A standard British roundabout operates on the principle of high-capacity and vehicle throughput, which is known to not favour pedestrians or cyclists.”

The report suggests that at times when the area is less busy, the roundabout is likely to operate more efficiently than a traffic signal junction.

The scheme would not require planning permission, but would be consulted on before being finalised.

Following the meeting, a spokesman for Hertfordshire County Council said: “We are looking at the design of a junction at Station Rd, in Borehamwood near the rail station, which at times takes high pedestrian numbers.

“The scheme, which is at an early concept stage, would see the existing mini roundabout converted to a continental style roundabout with zebra crossings across each arm, prioritising cyclists and pedestrian over private vehicles.

“The concept will be consulted upon in the area before being finalised and agreed with local county councillors."