Issue - meetings

The Cabinet Member for Transport considered a report concerning changes to the extent of the known highway in the Northfield End area of Henley-on-Thames and the implication of this change to the County Council as local highway authority. A possible statutory solution for one area was also considered.  

Mrs Chumas a local resident spoke in relation to the spaces in front of 92-102 Bell Street commenting that she had bought her space for peace of mind and security as there was a great shortage of public and residents bays. She also referred to the difficulties of a resident of Bell Street who was disabled and would agree only on the basis of having 2 car parking spaces.  Local people had bought the spaces in good faith, would be eligible for compensation but mostly did not want it but wished to keep the spaces they had. She felt there was a false assumption in respect of the footway argument as they did drive over it.

Alan Jones spoke in support of the findings of the Council and supported the stopping up of Bells Lane. Mr Rosen agreed with Mr Jones and supported the recommendations of the consultants for the status quo.

Mr Stott, speaking in relation to the school Street spoke against the Consultant’s findings and suggested that a recommendation (c) include 90 Bell Street in any consultations. He commented that the 4 parking bays were used habitually and had been repaired and maintained. He referred to recent advice and the views of Henley Town Council who had asked that 90 Bell Street be excluded. He hoped that there would be a decision to include 90 Bell Street in any stopping up.

Mr McGruer, speaking on behalf of Chesterton Commercial referred to the historic position in relation to parking on Bell Street. He did not seek to challenge the consultants report but was dismayed at the conclusions. They had purchased four spaces and supported the proposal to stop up the highway on the basis that it was not needed. He commented that a key question was whether there were suitable alternative spaces available and that there were no useful public spaces.

Jose Gournal  spoke in relation to 98 Bell Street where there was limited parking in front. Careful parking was required. She expressed concerns at the costs of the proposals to the County Council and reiterated other speakers in noting that she had bought the space properly and supported the status quo.

Mr Sanders and Mr Peters, residents of Northfield End also spoke in favour of the status quo. 

Mr Russell, Mrs Weait and Mrs Hutton, residents directly affected by parking from 92-102 Bell Street spoke against the parking continuing on the grounds of emergency access, safety for pedestrians particularly children, heritage aspects of the area and that historically it had been highway.

Mrs Hare expressed concern for her mother’s safety as a resident in the area and highlighted the Rupert House delivery vehicles as a particular problem.  ...  view the full minutes text for item 12