This week, the Reading Borough Council held three meetings: the Policy Committee on Monday, the Adult Social Care, Children's Services and Education Committee on Wednesday, and the Traffic Management Sub-Committee on Thursday. Unfortunately, the transcripts for the Policy Committee and the Adult Social Care, Children's Services and Education Committee meetings were not available, so we will focus on the Traffic Management Sub-Committee meeting.

Traffic Management Sub-Committee

The Traffic Management Sub-Committee meeting on Thursday, 13 June 2024, covered several important topics, including speed limit enforcement and the installation of a new zebra crossing on Upper Redlands Road.

Speed Limit Enforcement

One of the key discussions was about the enforcement of speed limits. The committee acknowledged the difficulties in enforcing speed limits without the necessary powers, which currently rest with the police. A councillor noted:

Until councils get the ability to enforce these speed limits, these things are tricky and it would be great if we do eventually get those powers to do that, rather than the overstretched police force.

The committee also discussed the collaboration with Thames Valley Police to extend speed reduction measures towards Barclay Avenue overbridge. This extension aims to improve safety but does not cover the entire Inner Distribution Road (IDR) towards the town centre.

Upper Redlands Road Zebra Crossing

Another significant decision was the approval of a new zebra crossing on Upper Redlands Road. This crossing will improve pedestrian safety between Alexandra Road and Elmhurst Road, serving both the University of Reading and St Joseph's College. The decision followed a second statutory consultation, which received two objections related to the removal of traffic cushions. However, the road safety audit did not identify these as concerns, and the removal of parking bays was not objected to.

The committee agreed to proceed with the reduction of on-street parking to facilitate the new crossing. A councillor highlighted the importance of this measure:

It's an amazing area if you've ever been down there. It's tucked away with very tight roads, which if people are driving there would cause congestion problems and potential safety problems.

This decision aligns with the council's ongoing efforts to improve road safety and encourage walking to school, which is part of their broader transport and environmental policies.

Understanding Council Committees

To provide some context, the Traffic Management Sub-Committee is responsible for overseeing traffic regulations, road safety measures, and related infrastructure projects within the borough. This committee plays a crucial role in ensuring that the roads are safe and accessible for all residents.

The Policy Committee, which met on Monday, typically deals with overarching strategic decisions and policies that affect the entire borough. Meanwhile, the Adult Social Care, Children's Services and Education Committee, which met on Wednesday, focuses on services and policies related to social care, education, and support for children and families.

These committees are composed of elected councillors who represent different wards within the borough. They work together to make decisions that aim to improve the quality of life for all residents.

For more detailed information on council meetings and decisions, you can visit the Reading Borough Council's website.