The response from these meetings echoed the feed back from the earlier
consultation, with regards to concerns over the speed and size of vehicles
traveling through the town, worries of pedestrian safety, access for disabled,
loss of parking. Particular concerns
were raised to the proposal to use Pyle Street as an alternative to the High
Street.
As a result of this consultation a further option has now been developed
which will retain the High Street as a vehicular route, whilst at the same time
improve traffic management and pedestrian safety.
Proposal
The Proposal will:
- Improve
the pedestrian environment in the High Street.
- Provide
safety improvements in Pyle Street.
- Provide
significant safety improvements for pedestrians using Trafalgar Road by
introducing a one-way traffic system.
- Make
the best use of our car parks by installing variable message signs.
- Deflect
unnecessary through traffic, around Newport by the use of strategic
signing.
- Improve
bus access by introducing a bus contra-flow in South Street.
- Increase
traffic flows marginally in some streets.
Conclusion
The above option will provide significant
environmental, safety and traffic management improvements for the town. This can be considered as stage one of a
two-stage process to achieve increased pedestrian safety. Stage two; full pedestrianisation can only
be put in place if an adequate alternative traffic route is made available to
accommodate displaced traffic flows from the High Street.
Human Rights Act
In placing this paper before the committee
consideration has been given to the rights set out in Article 8 (right to
respect for private and family life) and Article 1 of the First Protocol (right
to peaceful enjoyment of possessions) of the European Convention on Human
Rights.
The impact
that these schemes might have on the owners/occupiers of other property in the
area and other third parties has been carefully considered. Whilst it is not
anticipated that there will be any interference with the rights of these people
there nevertheless needs to be a balance between the Council's aim to improve
the economic well being of Newport town centre and public safety within the
town. Insofar as there is an interference with the rights of others it is
considered necessary for the protection of the rights and freedoms of the
community as a whole. It is also considered that such an action is proportional
to the legitimate aim and in the public interest.
Crime and
Disorder Act
The Council has consulted the Isle of Wight Crime and Disorder
Facilitator and Architectural Liaison Officer, with regard to the reduction of
crime through design. He would be
interested to see the details of any scheme and in particular the layout of
street furniture and carriageway/pavement treatment. It is intended that any scheme will increase pedestrian safety and deter
crime and disorder.
The details of any scheme will be developed in conjunction with English
Heritage and colleagues from the crime and disorder and urban design teams.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
The cost of implementing the above option is likely to be in the order of £600,000 and will be met from existing Highways capital settlement.
OPTIONS
- That the above option be approved.
- To take no further action.
|
RECOMMENDATION That Option 1 above is approved. |
BACKGROUND PAPERS
Local Transport Plan 2001-2006
(E1.1. and E.1.3)
Unitary Development Plan 1996
–2011 (Policy TR 14)
Minutes & Agenda for
Environment & Transportation Select Committee November 2000
Minutes & Agenda for
Environment & Transport Select Committee May 2002.
CONTACT POINT
Chris Wells, Engineering Services F 823777
|
M J A
FISHER Strategic
Director Corporate
and Environment Services |
E FOX Portfolio
Holder for Transport |
