Issue - meetings

This report presents responses received to a statutory consultation to introduce a 20mph speed limit throughout Aston, Cote & Bampton, with the existing 30mph speed limits being replaced in their entirety. Additionally, on Main Road in Cote - the proposed 20mph speed limit will also be extended south-eastwards to cover the access to “Cote Bungalow Farm”, thus replacing the current 60mph National Speed Limit in the process. The proposals are being put forward following road safety concerns raised by the Parish Councils and are part of a countywide programme of works that seeks to deliver ‘a safer place with a safer pace’ for the residents of Oxfordshire.

The Cabinet Member for Highway Management AGREED to approve as advertised the 20mph speed limits at Aston, Cote and Bampton.

The report presented responses received to a statutory consultation to introduce a 20mph speed limit throughout Aston, Cote & Bampton, with the existing 30mph speed limits being replaced in their entirety. Additionally, on Main Road in Cote - the proposed 20mph speed limit will also be extended south[1]eastwards to cover the access to “Cote Bungalow Farm”, thus replacing the current 60mph National Speed Limit in the process.

Cllr Andrew Gant invited the speakers to address the meeting and read out statements received (as per Appendix 1 of the minutes) and responded to issues and comments made by each speaker in descending order.

Cllr Gant sought clarification on what defined a residential street as there appeared to be some confusion regarding the proposed limits. In response it was explained that each was looked at in detail and included deceleration zones but the start points could be reviewed once implemented.

In respect of speeding data it was confirmed that this was not required in the agreed policy although this did not preclude sites being monitored. Cllr Gant referred to the adopted policy and gave a reminder that 20mph limits were requested by the local community and Parish/Town Council.

Cllr Gant highlighted issues raised in the consultation responses and confirmation was given that one stretch of road would be a reduction from 60mph to 20mph.

Clarification was given on the responses from Thames Valley Police (TVP) and bus operators regarding Cote which was the smallest of the parishes.

Cllr Gant summed up the issues and highlighted the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents publication on the benefits of 20mph limits.

Cllr Gant expressed his support for the recommendations in the report as the proposal would help facilitate walking and cycling within the village and the safe movement of traffic.

DECISION

The Cabinet Member for Highway Management AGREED to approve as advertised the 20mph speed limits at Aston, Cote and Bampton.