Brighton & Hove Local Access Forum
Thursday 10th January 2013
Committee Room 1, Hove Town Hall
Present
Local Access Forum (LAF) members:
Andrew Coleman, Anthony Young, David Brookshaw, Corinna Edwards-Colledge (Chair), John Funnell, Maire McQueeney, Peter Jarman, Penny Hudd
BHCC officers:
Robert Walker (Parks & Green Space Operations), Tracy Beverley (Transport Planner, Walking & Cycling), Ruth Gold (Minutes)
Members of public:
Welcome: Penny Hudd elaborated on her background for the group, as did Maire McQueeney.
1. Apologies
Cllr Ian Davey, Cllr Pete West
2. Minutes of previous meeting (04/10/12)
All members agreed that the minutes were an accurate reflection of the meeting.
3. Matters Arising
Action 5.1 (Ongoing) No update for ML36 or ML39. Alternative route for Balsdean Gate has tentatively been agreed but not yet installed – potential to tie in with ML52.
AC requested clarification on the criteria for inviting new members to the LAF, brief discussion ensued on member representation.
Action TB: to obtain a list of tenant farmers from Jessica Hamilton
DB requested an updated LAF contacts list to be distributed.
Action TB: to send updated list of members and officers out with next set of minutes.
4. LSTF – Project Update & South Downs Links
TB updated the group/elaborated on the bid process; TB proceeded to list the following schemes which have been put forward:
· Extension of 79 and 78 bus services.
· Bike/Bus development (77&78 will carry bikes)
· Walking & Cycling link along Ditchling Road to eventually into Stanmer Park
· Woodingdean/Falmer permissive bridle route (planning application approved for the project)
· Stanmer Park masterplan, including carpark provision / sustainable access to the park.
TB commented that funding details had been discussed with bid partners but won’t be confirmed until February. She is fairly confident funding will be successful and requested input from the group on the above.
DB expressed concern that the Woodingdean to Falmer project would get tied-up with the above bid, TB replied that the application had already been approved for the project and that we’re hoping to commence this financial year; DB sought reassurance on whether this was likely to happen, TB commented that she was hopeful it would happen within the specified timeframe. TB also mentioned that there had been a number of archaeological issues which is likely to increase funding demands, CEC sought clarification on this, TB replied a number of archaeological conditions were associated with the planning permission.
TB updated the group on Lewes Road Corridor – construction had started and cyclists have positively commented on the new bus-stop layout. The construction work is likely to continue up until December 2013 due to the length of the road.
TB also updated the group on the Stoney Mere Way footpath, a new pedestrian footpath is being installed to Stanmer Park and beyond to the University Campus (TB mentioned that the University had been supportive of this scheme and had agreed to contribute funds for this) and that the scheme should be completed by mid February. AY raised cycling safety concerns along parts of the route and suggested more signage.
TB commented this improvement along with others in the area will reduce pressures on the heavily used shared-use path along Lewes Road. She was reluctant to use signage as they can contribute to street clutter and are not always effective.
DB queried whether links to the Downs will be improved from Lewes Road. TB mentioned Stoney Mere Road and that we will be working on this development over next couple of months, also Moulsecombe Road footpath. Old Boat Corner identified as a potential link.
TB updated group on Pedestrian Crossing list, AC queried area bottom of East Street.
5. City Parks update and Ranger Update (Robert Walker)
Updated on what’s been implemented on site. RW commenced a definitive mapping exercise in early December and elaborated on reasons for it; Hoping most of it will be finished by April, RW to bring a draft along to show to the group so any issues can be raised.
DB suggested that this exercise will take some time so suggested whether this could be done as a sub-group? RW mentioned a LAF will be taking place on 16th January so he is planning to work on the map then and asked whether the Chair could nominate a member to attend for input. The Chair (CEC) asked which members would be interested, MM/JF/DB all expressed interest.
The group all agreed to have a sub-meeting once the mapping work had been completed.
6. Status of the existing pathway Roedean footpath (Peter Jarman)
PJ presented his report to the group. RW commented that if the footpath cannot be excepted by the Council as legitimate then it should go through the DMMO procedure. RW requested feedback and suggested the Chair send he’s report to council lawyers for comments. TB asked RW to forward he’s report on to her and she will forward it on to Carl who is a Highways lawyer.
DB – include the above in RW mapping work? RW replied that he is awaiting instruction from Carl. DB said this is an anomaly that will need picking up and that Carl will need to be informed.
Action: Update on above at next LAF meeting.
J Bustard – further review requested on shared use signs as seen cycle and pedestrian conflicts with café on Undercliffe, TB mentioned had not yet received any complaints about this. DB suggested enforcement on weekends.
Action TB: to liaise with Seafront Office to confirm number of incidents, then review/look at incidents that have taken place since signage has been installed.
7. AOB
CC – Queried whether the council was using Living Streets – unnecessary street clutter guidelines, TB replied that we do incorporate our own street design guides into the development of capital schemes. We and have reduced street clutter and signage as part of key transport improvement projects this year including Lewes Road, East Street and Cromwell Road junction this includes the reduction of guardrailing.
CC - highlighted that Health Walks is now 10 years old and that there will be an anniversary programme with lots of special walks/events happening and if anybody has any ideas then please feedback to Corinna.
Action TB: invite a contact from Housing to the next LAF meeting:
All agreed a prompt 18.30 start, Chair - John Funnel.
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