To consider the results of the statutory consultation for the proposed installation of a new zebra crossing and ‘School Keep Clear’ restrictions to support the Heights School, and decide whether these measures should be implemented.

The Executive Director for Economic Growth and Neighbourhood Services submitted a report providing the results of the statutory consultation for the proposed installation of a new zebra crossing and ‘School Keep Clear’ restrictions to support the Heights School.  The following appendices were attached to the report:

The report explained that The Heights School proposal at Mapledurham Playing Fields was currently progressing towards occupation later in 2021 with some Highway alteration works having been delivered already.  As part of that development a zebra crossing on the A4074, Upper Woodcote Road, had been secured through the Section 106 Agreement with the detailed design also providing for ‘school keep clear’ markings to protect the immediate vicinity around the school entrance from potentially obstructive parking.

The implementation of these measures required the Council to carry out statutory consultations in accordance with the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 and it would have been standard practice to request commencement of consultations of this nature at a meeting of the Sub-Committee.  However, due to a number of factors, it was not possible for this to have been achieved in time for the meeting of the Sub-Committee in March 2021. With joint agreement between Ward Councillors, appropriate portfolio holders, the Chair of the Sub-Committee and officers in Legal and Committee Services and Transport, statutory consultations were carried out between 13 May and 4 June 2021. 

Councillor Mitchell read out a statement from Councillor Ballsdon, Mapledurham Ward Councillor, affirming her support for the zebra crossing and detailing some concerns about the new lights from residents in the immediate vicinity.

Resolved –

(1)     That the report be noted;

(2)     That having reviewed the consultation feedback as set out in Appendix 4, attached to the report, and the officer recommendations as detailed in the report, the zebra crossing be implemented as advertised;

(3)     That having reviewed the consultation feedback as set out in Appendix 2, attached to the report, and the officer recommendations as detailed in the report, the ‘School Keep Clear’ restriction be implemented as advertised;

(4)     That the Assistant Director of Legal and Democratic Services be authorised to seal the resultant Traffic Regulation Order for the ‘School Keep Clear’ restriction;

(5)     That no public enquiry be held into the proposals.