The Cabinet Committee received a report of the Deputy Chief Executive (Place) that sought approval of proposals amending the road layout and traffic flows, including the introduction of signal controls and amendment of traffic regulation orders, in Queensway at the junctions with Whitegate Road and York Road.  The proposals included:

(i)  the introduction of a signal controlled right turn manoeuvre by vehicles travelling south from Queensway into Whitegate Road;

(ii)  the introduction of a signal controlled right turn manoeuvre by vehicles travelling south from Queensway into York Road;

(iii)  the introduction of a left turn manoeuvre by vehicles travelling north from Queensway into Whitegate Road;

(iv)  the revocation of the existing one way traffic flow in the section of Whitegate Road from the eastern most exit of Warrior Square Car Park to the eastern extremity of Whitegate Road, enabling two way traffic flow in this section;

(v)  the revocation of the existing restrictions in the section of Whitegate Road referred to in (iv) above and the introduction “no waiting at any time” restrictions;

(vi)  the revocation of the existing “no waiting at any time restriction” at the existing western exit of Warriors Square car park and the introduction of a section of Payment Parking (Zone TC) 9am-6pm (Tariff_1) restriction; and

(vii)  the relocation of the existing “Toucan” pedestrian crossing in Queensway in the southbound carriageway of Queensway to a new position south of the junction with York Road.

Plans of the proposals were displayed at the meeting.  Having considered the views of the Traffic Regulations Working Party it was:

Resolved:

That the proposals as submitted not be progressed and that that officers requested to investigate the feasibility of introducing a revised scheme to improve access to the Warrior Square Car Park excluding, if possible, the introduction of the right turns from Queensway in to Whitegate Road and York Road, through

(a)  the introduction of the left turn from the northbound carriageway of Queensway into Whitegate Road;

(b)  the revocation of the existing one way traffic flow in the section of Whitegate Road from the eastern most exit of Warrior Square Car Park to the eastern extremity of Whitegate Road, enabling two way traffic flow in this section; and

(c)  the revocation of the existing “no waiting at any time restriction” at the existing western exit of Warriors Square car park and the introduction of a section of Payment Parking (Zone_TC) 9am-6pm (Tariff_1) restriction.

Reasons for Decision

To ensure best use of limited resources on justifiable projects that address and resolve network management issues and to reduce congestion and improve air quality in the town centre, whilst ensuring the safe movement of traffic.

Other Options

Implement scheme as proposed – may result in increased congestion and safety may be compromised.

Note:- This is an Executive Function

Eligible for call-in to Place Scrutiny Committee:

Cabinet Member: Councillor Moring