Highways officers will give an update on Stoughton Drive residents parking scheme, St. Philips and St. Johns developments.
Minutes:
Martin Fletcher and Robert Bateman (Highways) reported on the work undertaken to produce schemes making particular reference to the meetings held with Ward Councillors to determine priorities.
It was reported that the Councillors’ manifesto pledge concerning residents parking had been taken into account and that options had been explored to design suitable schemes for consideration. This included an extension to the schemes into the western part of the Ward.
Outline plans would be prepared following engagement with interested parties and details were displayed for comment. A formal consultation would take place where comments and concerns could be submitted.
In terms of the likely timescale it was noted that a significant amount of consultation would be necessary before any proposals were identified.
Evington Valley Road was cited as an area requiring particular attention due to the parking problems currently experienced.
In response to questions it was noted that parking surveys were undertaken and that numbers of permits per household were carefully considered, to allow parking for non-residential uses in the area, whilst satisfying the need for residents to park close to their properties. It was confirmed that on-street parking for residents could not be guaranteed and that flexibility was necessary to allow a suitable scheme to be implemented.
The Chair of ERNA, Helen Everett, was invited to comment on the issue. She referred to the group’s monthly meetings and encouraged the attendance of residents to properly debate a way forward. The importance of the traffic and parking surveys to assist this debate were emphasised.
It was noted that the business community would also have a view on proposals and that an adequate number parking spaces for shoppers were also needed.
Residents expressed the need for a solution and referred to the problems currently experienced, in this regard it was reported that residents parking schemes could have a displacement effect on other nearby residential areas.
In discussing the issues concerning Stoughton Drive, officers commented on the recent patchwalk undertaken to assess problems. Residents were thanked for their imput to the process and for the photographic and video evidence submitted.
Details of a scheme designed to alleviate problems was displayed for information and comment. It was clarified that the scheme was a first draft and that residents’ comments would be considered further before a final proposal was submitted for approval.
Residents confirmed that the initial reaction to the proposals was positive and that the improved crossing points were particular welcomed. It was suggested that a mobile speed camera be positioned in the area to assist the evidence of need for the scheme. Enforcement of inconsiderate driving was raised as a concern.
Having regard for the need to ensure continued engagement with residents it was also suggested that a leaflet exercise be undertaken to promote the need to view the proposals and to make comments on the likely effect of the scheme.
In conclusion, it was reported that the scheme could be altered to take account of residents’ comments and then be costed, with a view to agreement before the end of the financial year.
The update was noted and residents were thanked for their imput.