PAPER C1

Committee: ENVIRONMENT AND TRANSPORT SELECT COMMITTEE

Date: 27 NOVEMBER 2002

Title: QUIET ROADS

REPORT OF THE HEAD OF ENGINEERING SERVICES

SUMMARY / PURPOSE

This describes the rationale behind the quiet roads project and describes the pilot scheme carried out at Adgestone.

BACKGROUND

Quiet Roads is an initiative of the Countryside Agency. The Agency has stated >Increased traffic in rural areas is making country lanes dangerous for walkers, cyclists and horses=.

The aim of the Quiet Roads scheme nationally is to make selected minor rural roads more attractive for those who are not in motor vehicles, and to make driving more pleasant for those who are. Quiet roads will enable all users to share the road and enjoy their journey at a relaxing pace.

The Isle of Wight Council as pat of its LTP sustainable transport objectives has followed the Countryside Agency=s lead and implemented a pilot Quiet Roads project in Adgestone. The Upper and Lower Adgestone Roads were chosen as they had been identified by Brading Town Council as fitting the criteria for Quiet Roads. The roads are unimproved, part of an historic landscape, fed by many footpaths and bridleways, but are subject to a degree of inconsiderate driving by motorists spoiling the pleasure of vulnerable road users and causing a danger at certain times.

Following public consultation in the locality, the Isle of Wight Council installed four gateways at entrance points to Adgestone together with explanatory notices and a voluntary speed limit of 15 mph. The project has recently been completed and its effects are being monitored.

Local information suggests that voluntary speed limits are not being respected by a number of drivers and further measures may have to be considered.

OUTCOME OF CONSULTATIONS

The Adgestone Quiet Roads project was initiated by Brading Town Council as a result of its traffic survey.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

None.

RECOMMENDATIONS

That monitoring of the scheme should continue.

BACKGROUND PAPERS