Purpose

To provide an update on the Council's work to improve safety on the Greenway Diversion route following the closure of the Greenway by Thames Water.

Decision

For the reasons set out in the report and its appendices, Cabinet RESOLVED to Agree to:

i)  Note the update on Thames Water’s Northern Outfall Sewer works programme and the continued closure of The Greenway;

ii)  Note the engagement undertaken by the Mayor and Council Officers with Thames Water regarding opportunities to reduce the duration and impacts of the closure;

iii)  Note the previous Cabinet decision on 3 December 2024 to use funds and progress consultation on proposals intended to provide a safer alternative walking and cycling route along the A112 corridor (known as Cycling Future Route 7, ‘CFR7’) for users displaced by The Greenway closure and provide a high-quality infrastructure link in legacy;

iv)  Delegate authority to the Director Highways, Parking and Transportation in consultation with the Corporate Director of Environment and Sustainable Transport and Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Environment, to progress the implementation of the alternative route proposals subject to consultation outcomes through the Council’s governance processes; and

v)  Request Officers to keep local ward members informed about any changes to the programme on The Greenway as well as updates to residents via Council communication channels and The Greenway webpage.

Alternatives Considered

1. An alternative option of doing nothing has been discounted. With the anticipated continuation of the Greenway closure until at least 2028, a do-nothing approach would leave displaced users reliant upon existing highway routes without additional mitigation measures. This would not adequately respond to concerns raised by residents, stakeholders and elected members regarding safety, accessibility and the quality of alternative routes.
2. Therefore, the recommended approach is to continue engaging with Thames Water regarding The Greenway programme whilst progressing proposals for safer alternative routes.