The Executive Director for Economic Growth and Neighbourhood Services submitted a report that sought approval to implement new traffic restrictions on Castle Hill/Bath Road in the form of double yellow lines, removal of the tidal flow lane and reduction of the length of the existing bus lane.  The report also provided the objections and other feedback that had been received during the statutory consultation.

As of 24 February 2023, 148 responses to the consultation had been received, of which 79.73% were in support of the implementation of traffic restrictions in the form of double yellow lines along Castle Hill between its junction with Russell Street and with Jesse Terrace.  Also, 75% were in support to alter the length of the existing eastbound bus lane on Bath Road, and 70.95% were in support to remove the Tidal Flow on Castle Hill.  Common themes of objections were:

·         Strong objection to the removal of the tidal flow as it would result in a significant backlog of traffic which would impact negatively on  air quality in the local area. It works as it was;

·         Cycle infrastructure design LTN 1/20 did not increase the number of cyclists but just increased traffic congestion affecting air quality.

A summary of the consultation responses was available in Appendix 1 attached to the report.

Resolved –

(1)     That the report be noted;

(2)     That the Assistant Director of Legal and Democratic Services be authorised to approve the proposed traffic restrictions on Castle Hill/Bath Road in accordance with Local Authorities Traffic Orders (Procedure) (England and Wales) Regulations 1996;

(3)     That the Assistant Director of Legal and Democratic Services be authorised to make the Traffic Regulation Order and no public inquiry be held into the proposal.