CUSTOMERS were once again "trapped" in the notorious IKEA Reading car park after chaotic traffic saw people stuck for more than two hours yesterday.
Furious residents took to social media to demand answers from the Swedish furniture store after sitting in bumper-to-bumper traffic in the car park.
It came after IKEA vowed to sort out the traffic problems at the Calcot store after police were drafted in to deal with backed-up cars just days after opening.
However, several weeks later in August, it happened again, and customers were stuck in the car park for more than two hours.
On Sunday, people trapped in the car park once again slammed the busy store and demanded answers.
#IKEAReading - over an hour on top floor of car park, moved 5 car lengths. This is absolutely diabolical, can someone provide an update!?
— Mike Shakesby (@mike_shakesby) February 5, 2017
@IKEA @ReadingCouncil #getmeoutofhere carpark/roadjunction /mismanagement. Not full yet min 1hr30+ to get in or out all day #IKEAReading pic.twitter.com/4xoPuUbZ1R
— Jen (@JenForakis) February 5, 2017
One man went as far to say he was wasting his life while sitting in the hectic queues.
@IKEA I'm wasting my life in your car park - 40mins so far. Sort it out! #hatinglife #reading #getmeoutofhere pic.twitter.com/MpTLSTv59q
— Robert QJaneiro (@RobertQJaneiro) February 5, 2017
The 32,000 sq ft store opened its doors to the public in July.
IKEA said it would review the traffic problems when they first came to light last year. Police investigating the chaos said it was caused by the sheer volume of traffic trying to get in and out.
Bosses at the firm said they would work with West Berkshire Council and Highways England to try and tackle the issue.
Johanna Heuren, IKEA Reading Store Manager, said: “We are aware of ongoing traffic congestion on the roads leaving the IKEA Reading store during peak periods at weekends. We are working closely with traffic consultants and West Berkshire Council to find a long term solution.
!In the meantime, we have a dedicated traffic management team on site to respond and keep traffic flowing as quickly as possible, should any problems occur at these times.
"Measures already implemented have included adjusting the signal timing at Sainsbury’s junction, additional signage and amending the traffic flows within the IKEA car park.
"IKEA Reading welcomes customers until 9pm on weekdays and Saturdays. We invite customers who wish to avoid peak times and enjoy a quieter shopping experience to visit us during off-peak hours."
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