Feedback on ongoing issues and information on planned works will be given.
Minutes:
Councillors agreed to change the running order of the agenda.
Martin Fletcher, City Highways Director was present and gave the following information:
· The 20mph zone was in place, and its aim was to reduce speeds. After-surveys would be undertaken of the roads, and further measures may be installed as needed. It was noted there were people that would continue to speed and not abide by the law.
· In last few weeks work had been undertaken round Rolleston and Eyres Monsell primary schools – bollards and wheelchair access on frontages.
· Keep clear markings outside Rolleston and Holy Cross schools were enforceable by camera car.
· The next tranche of Traffic Regulation Orders would include Eyres Monsell Primary and Samworth Academy.
· November / December three laybys would be constructed as part of the annual programme of layby improvements. Ibsley Way, Monmouth Drive and Whitteney Drive North.
· Access to Sturdee Road from Saffron Lane was discussed. The Council has drawn up an outline scheme to install a mini-roundabout and widening of the junction approach. Officers are investigating with British Telecom the feasibility and costs of diverting cables. The overall estimated cost for a scheme is in the order of £300k. Officers were looking to submit a bid for funding from the capital programme budget for funding. Further traffic surveys would also be undertaken to understand rat running, as it may have an adverse effect by making the route a more attractive rat run.
· IT was not feasible to signalise the Glenhills Way junctions with Sturdee Road and Pasley Road without dualling Glenhills Way. This is because the signals would require additional stacking capacity to maintain traffic flow. The cost of such a scheme would be several £ millions.
· Parked cars were affecting a bus stop on Sturdee Road. The Traffic Team were looking to see if there were any enforcement issues.
Residents complained about vehicles parking on the grass when wet, which created rivets that people fell over when dried out. It was responded that people parking on grass verges could be regulated and enforced, but noted that if vehicle owners lived on the estate, they had nowhere else to park. Residents reported one of the vehicles was a skip lorry that should be parked in the operator’s yard. It was stated that parking outside of a house was dependent on the weight of a vehicle.
Residents also drew attention to pavement parking, whereby people had to go into the road to pass. Officers said the council could enforce where cars were parked on double yellow line and single yellow line from road to premises borders. If no lines were in place, the police could enforce where there was an obstruction, but would only deal with serious issues. If there were persistent issues, residents could contact the council to request yellow lines be installed which could then be enforced. Other measures could include installing bollards. Any problems could be fed back to Councillors.
Residents reported that the 20mph had made no difference to speeding cars and vans. The Police responded that there were some people who would not be stopped no matter how many traffic calming measured can go in. officers said the 20mph had been put in place to try and reduce average speeds and reduce the risk of accidents to children, cyclists, and people walking. The meeting was informed about a community speed watch exercise, where resident in the community are trained to use a speed gun, and to try to educate people to be better citizens. It was reported that speed watch was proving successful and something to consider.
Residents reported faded yellow lines. It was noted that even if lines had faded they were still enforceable. Residents were encouraged to use the Love Leicester App to report faced lines and parking issues.