The Gravesham Council Cabinet meeting on Monday, 24 June 2024, focused on several key issues, including the Highways Forward Works Programme for 2023/24, safety improvements at Shorne Crossroads, and the enforcement of parking regulations. Decisions were made to proceed with various safety measures and to enhance enforcement actions in problematic parking areas.

Highways Forward Works Programme: 2023/24

The Highways Manager for Dartford and Gravesham introduced the Highways Forward Works Programme for 2023/24. This document was informational, detailing planned road surface treatments and streetlight replacements. The micro-surfacing treatment is expected to extend road life by approximately ten years. Weather delays had postponed lining renewals, but these are scheduled to occur within the next week. Damaged street furniture, including railings, will be replaced within 28 days of notification, prioritised based on risk assessments.

Petition for Safety Improvements at Shorne Crossroads

The West Kent Highway Improvements Programme Manager discussed a report responding to a petition with over 1,200 signatures requesting safety improvements at the A226 Shorne Crossroads junction with Green Farm Lane and Forge Lane. Current measures include installing yellow warning signs and conducting speed surveys. A consultant has been commissioned to prepare a plan for a signalised crossing, contingent on future funding. The board agreed to revisit this topic in the next meeting, including a report on a site visit and consultancy findings.

Councillor Bob Lane from Shorne Parish Council emphasised the need for site visits during peak times and questioned why previous speed reduction plans were not implemented. The Programme Manager explained that reducing speed limits without physical engineering works could increase danger and driver frustration. A site visit with the Parish Council will be organised within two weeks.

Enforcement of Parking Regulations

The Parking & Highway Officer introduced a report on the Gravesham Borough Council (Off-Street Parking Places) (Variation No.5) Order 2024. Feedback from Kent Fire and Rescue indicated unsafe parking practices around buildings. Despite additional signage, the situation did not improve, necessitating enforcement actions. Residents were informed about the changes, which were well received.

Issues Raised by Councillors

Double Parking and Parking at Dropped Footways

Councillor Deborah Croxton raised concerns about double parking and parking at dropped footways, which restrict access for people with disabilities. The Parking & Highway Officer confirmed that enforcement is regularly carried out and agreed to discuss further communication strategies with Nicholas May, the Parking & Environmental Enforcement Services Manager.

Meopham Parade

Councillor Bryan Sweetland from Kent County Council requested an update on Meopham Parade, expressing concerns about road narrowing and its impact on shop deliveries. The West Kent Highway Improvements Programme Manager stated that a safety audit is underway, and plans will be shared with Councillor Sweetland and the parishes. Implementation is expected in autumn, pending road space and time restrictions.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the public reports pack and the minutes of the previous meeting.