Decision details

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting, invited speakers to make their addresses and responded to their points in turn.

The Chair noted that the proposals included new toucan crossings, bus stops and upgraded walking and cycling infrastructure associated with the Ladygrove East development. Officers advised that the scheme was being delivered through existing Section 106 obligations.

The Chair acknowledged concerns regarding the discontinuity in cycling provision along part of Abingdon Road, the limitations imposed by historic planning obligations and the wider lack of integration across transport schemes within Didcot. Officers confirmed that opportunities to secure additional land for an improved cycling facility had been explored but had not been taken forward by the developer.

The Chair supported further engagement with local stakeholders regarding future transport planning in Didcot and requested that a letter be sent to the developer, copied to South Oxfordshire District Council, encouraging reconsideration of opportunities to improve provision for active travel. The Chair also welcomed the suggestion of a wider strategic discussion regarding transport infrastructure across Didcot.

The Chair thanked officers for their work, speakers for their contributions and agreed to the recommendations in the report.

RESOLVED to:

Approve the following traffic/highway improvements in Didcot, as advertised:

a) A4130 Hadden Hill:

i. Extend the existing 30mph speed limit eastwards for approximately 130 metres,

ii. Two new Toucan crossings (a signal controlled crossing for use by pedestrians and cyclists) either side of the roundabout junction with the access to the ‘Hadden Hill’ retail park,

iii. Four new bus stop clearways, with ‘No stopping except local buses’ restrictions,

iv. New sections of segregated foot/cycleway (5 metres wide) on the North side,

v. New section of shared foot/cycleway (3 metres wide) on the south side

b) A4130 Abingdon Road:

i. Two new Toucan crossings (a signal controlled crossing for use by pedestrians and cyclists) either side of the junction with Tamar Way,

ii. Two new bus stop clearways, with ‘No stopping except local buses’ restrictions,

iii. New section of segregated foot/cycleway (5 metres wide) on the East side, and

iv. New section of shared foot/cycleway (3 metres wide) on the west side, south of Tamar Way.