Councillor Mark Howard has been seeking to get Cadent to reconsider car diversion routes for the planned gas works that will close the Pound from 27th July to 2nd September. The diversions put in place for the most recent closure caused congestion, long delays and at least one police attended accident. He is concerned that Cadent's plan to use Terry's Lane and Grange Road, which are in many parts single lane with few if any passing points, is not suitable and that Cadent needs to learn from the recent experience of work there.

Cadent met with Mark at the end of April to discuss its other planned works in Cookham and how to minimise disruption.

It appears that Cadent has engaged with residents to understand the concerns and challenges that closing the Pound creates, and has proposed a set of improved plans whilst still delivering this essential work safely. It is proposing:
* The car diversion will be via Maidenhead, not via Terry's Lane, and pedestrian access will be maintained
* Terry's Lane will become access-only, so that it is not used as an unofficial diversion, and access for residents, bin lorries and emergencies will be maintained

* The time that the Pound is completely closed will be approximately three weeks, rather than six weeks
* Traffic lights will allow traffic through the Pound when works are only occurring at either end
It appears that a much-improved result has been achieved for all.