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Division(s): Marston

ITEM TIC8

TRANSPORT IMPLEMENTATION COMMITTEE –
27 NOVEMBER 2003

PROPOSED PELICAN CROSSING, CHERWELL DRIVE, OXFORD
PROPOSED TOUCAN CROSSING, MARSH LANE, OXFORD

Report by Assistant Director (Environment & Economy)

 

Introduction

  1. This report sets out responses to a public consultation carried out in August/September 2003, on the proposed implementation of a pedestrian crossing in Cherwell Drive, between the two arms of Oxford Road. It also introduces the proposed Toucan crossing in Marsh Lane, near Horseman Close. The report seeks approval for construction of these crossings.

    2. Background

  2. The Headington and Marston Area Transport Strategy (HAMATS) which is being developed jointly by the County and City Councils aims to tackle the growing traffic problems in the area, including those arising from the hospital and university sites. The strategy takes into account national and local transport polices which aim to reduce car travel through the promotion and provision of alternative forms of travel including bus services, cycling and walking.

  3. As part of the strategy, endorsed by the County Council in November 2002, a network of proposed pedestrian and cycle facilities was produced which takes into account the aim of promoting safer and more direct walking and cycling routes in the area, both for residents, employers and visitors to the hospital and university sites. The new crossings that are the subject of this report will be a key link in the development of that network.

    4. Consultation

    Pelican Crossing – Cherwell Drive

  4. Public consultation was carried out for the statutory minimum period of three weeks between 29 August and 19 September with a total of 93 letters sent to residents in the locality of the crossing. County and City Councillors, emergency services and other relevant bodies were also consulted. In addition Notices were erected on-street setting out the proposals. Annex 1 (drawing No BPN874/F3250) (download as .doc file) shows the layout of the proposed crossing.

  5. Of the nine responses received during the consultation only one raised an objection. Annex 2 sets out the comments received together with officer comments, where relevant.

    6. Toucan Crossing – Marsh Lane

  6. Due to the need to undertake additional survey works following discussions with the Old Marston Parish Council, the start of the consultation was delayed until 17 October and is due to be completed on 7 November. A supplementary report, on the comments received will be circulated before the meeting. Annex 3 (drawing No BPN874/F3254) (download as .doc file) shows the layout of the proposed crossing.

  7. The proposed Toucan crossing will provide a link between the bridleway, which can be used by cyclists and pedestrians, on the east side of Marsh Lane to Horseman Close. This is a route that has been highlighted as a further cycle route which will eventually link into Boults Lane from Horseman Close.

    8. Conclusion

  8. The proposals form an integral part of the HAMATS programme. There has been minimal objection to the Cherwell Drive Pelican crossing and its implementation is therefore recommended. There have been no negative comments received so far regarding the consultation on the Toucan crossing in Marsh Lane.

    9. Financial and Staff Implications

  9. Finance for both crossings is included in this year's Capital Programme. Staffing costs can me met from existing resources.

    10. RECOMMENDATIONS

  10. The Committee is RECOMMENDED to approve the implementation of:

          1. the Pelican crossing on Cherwell Drive as shown at Annex 1 (drawing No BPN874/F3250) to this report; and

          2. subject to the detail of any comments received, the Toucan crossing on Marsh Lane, as shown at Annex 3 (drawing No BPN874/F3254).

RICHARD DIX
Assistant Director (Environment & Economy))

Background papers: Nil

Contact Officer: Marguerita Chorafa Tel: Oxford 815625

October 2003

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