The Transport and Air Quality Committee of Richmond upon Thames Council is scheduled to discuss the future of e-bike services in the borough, review the draft Transport Strategy to 2040, and consider safety improvements on Hampton Court Road. Other topics on the agenda include a petition regarding heavy vehicle restrictions in Barnes, ward concerns about parking zones, and the committee's work programme.

Future E-bike Services

The committee will consider the outcome of a procurement exercise for hire e-bike services in Richmond upon Thames. The report suggests delegating authority to officers to award a contract to Forest Bikes as a sole provider. This follows a public scrutiny session and extensive public engagement, which indicated a desire for e-bike services to continue but with greater management and control. The proposed contract aims to increase the number of e-bike parking bays and the overall fleet size, while also requiring operators to have event plans and provide more transparent data.

Richmond upon Thames Transport Strategy to 2040

A key item for discussion is the final draft of the borough's first long-term, co-created Transport Strategy, aiming to guide transport planning until 2040. The strategy, developed with input from over 2,000 public comments, outlines a vision for a transport system that enhances environmental quality, supports inclusive growth, and protects the borough's character. It proposes a shift towards active travel and public transport, with objectives focused on environmental and health improvements, social equity and accessibility, economic development, and institutional effectiveness. The committee will be asked to approve the draft strategy and the process for its final publication.

Hampton Court Road Cycle and Pedestrian Safety Improvements (Phase 1)

The committee will consider design concepts for Phase 1 of improvements to Hampton Court Road, between Hampton Court Green and Kingston. This phase aims to enhance on-street cycle facilities, improve pedestrian crossings, and upgrade the streetscape, replacing temporary measures introduced in 2020. The proposals include changes to the bus stop adjacent to Hampton Court Green, moving existing zebra crossings away from the Hampton Court Roundabout, and exploring alternative parking provisions. The council has secured funding for Phase 1, with an estimated cost of up to £750,000, and will seek further funding from Transport for London.

Petition for Heavy Vehicle Restrictions in Barnes

A petition with over 1,000 signatures, submitted by Paul Hodson on behalf of the Barnes Community Association - Travel Barnes group, calls for the introduction and enforcement of a 7.5-tonne weight restriction for large vehicles (HGVs) on The Terrace and High Street, Barnes (A3003), excluding TfL buses.

Ward Concerns

Councillor Coombs has given notice of a Ward Concern regarding the inclusion of Strathearn Avenue and Percy Road in the Whitton South CPZ (Controlled Parking Zone).

Committee Work Programme

The committee will also consider its Work Programme, which outlines future topics for discussion. The date for a paper on A310 cycle improvements may need to be amended, and further additions are expected following the May 2026 election.