Decision details

The current proposals comprise a new traffic calming scheme along Townsend Road to reduce speeds in the vicinity of the development. The traffic calming measures consist of dragon’s teeth on the approach to the new ‘30’mph speed gateway, a Speed Indicator Device (SID) and 3Nr bus friendly speed cushions

The Chair introduced the item to the meeting.

Officers explained that the scheme related to a historic development obligation requiring the developer to deliver traffic calming measures on Townsend Road. Officers confirmed that alternative forms of traffic calming had been explored over a considerable period of time, but that technical constraints, including drainage, accesses and the nature of the road, meant that speed cushions remained the only deliverable option.

It was confirmed that the schemes were developer funded. Officers also noted that if the scheme was to be approved, monitoring would take place after its implementation to take account of any issues.

The Chair noted the concerns raised by the Parish Council, the local County Councillor and residents, including concerns about the potential impact of speed cushions on nearby properties, vibrations and the suitability of the measures on a bus route.

Officers explained that the cushions would be bus-friendly, formed from tarmac with a slower gradient, and could be monitored after installation. Officers also confirmed that the position of the cushions could be reviewed to avoid conflict with nearby accesses.

The Chair observed that there was clear support for other elements of the traffic calming package, including gateway treatments, dragon’s teeth road markings and a Speed Indicator Device, and that these measures could proceed independently of the speed cushions.

The Chair concluded that there was a difficult balance between the need to reduce vehicle speeds and the concerns raised through the consultation. In view of concerns, the Chair agreed to amend the recommendations to defer the speed cushions element to allow for further engagement and approve the other elements of the scheme.

Officers committed to further engagement with the Parish Council and local County Councillor.

The Chair thanked officers for their work and agreed to defer recommendation a) as set out below and approve amended recommendation b).

RESOLVED:

a)    Defer the construction of three pairs of speed cushion traffic calming features on Townsend Road in Shrivenham, as advertised.

b)    Approve the traffic calming measures consisting of dragon’s teeth on the approach to the new ‘30mph’ speed gateway and a new Speed Indicator Device, as advertised.