Purpose

This report sets out
the outcome of the Monitoring and Evaluation of the  temporary north-south cycle route in the centre of
Southport introduced through the Emergency Active Travel Fund in
2020, to enable a decision whether to retain, modify or remove the
route. The report also seeks approval to advertise necessary
Traffic Regulation Orders if the Cabinet Member decides to retain
or modify the route.

Decision

Decision(s): That
 

(1)       
the monitoring and evaluation data for the temporary
cycle route set out in the report be considered;

(2)       
the retention of the current Southport route be
approved;

(3)       
the progression of the further work identified
within the report to explore short, medium, and longer-term
improvements to the route be supported, including better
incorporating active travel provision within wider public realm
improvements within the town centre;

(4)       
the commissioning by the Assistant Director of Place
(Highways and Public Protection) of a Stage 4 Road Safety Audit for
the routes, and implementation of any minor modifications
recommended be approved;

(5)       
an application to the Secretary of State for an
extension of the current Temporary Traffic Regulation Order be
supported, to allow the period of consultation and consideration
relating to a permanent Traffic Regulation Order to be
completed;

(6)        
the process for advertising Permanent Traffic
Regulation Order as set out in the Report be approved.

Reasons for the Decision(s):
 
Cabinet Member had previously approved the
scheme noting that they would be delivered using a Temporary
Traffic Regulation Orders (TTRO) and be subject to monitoring and
evaluation prior to any decision over whether they be retained as
permanent. The current TTRO expires in early 2024 and therefore it
is appropriate to now determine whether the scheme is retained,
modified or removed, in order to enable the formal consultation
process associated with any permanent TRO to be
undertaken.
 
Should Cabinet Member
accept the recommendations identified above, then resources can be
allocated to progressing the further actions identified and
included within the development of a Pipeline of projects to help
inform the City Region Combined Authority in their bid for future
funding.
 
Alternative Options
Considered and Rejected: (including any
Risk Implications)
 
The option of removing
the scheme in its entirety has been considered. This option has not
been recommended as the data captured shows substantial use of the
facility by cyclists since implementation, and very substantial
numbers of pedestrians and motor vehicles, supporting the need for
safe, and attractive provision for people walking, cycling and
wheeling, as well as those driving motor vehicles within our town
centres. The report also demonstrates a strong link to national,
regional and local strategy objectives.
 
It is acknowledged
that some improvements could be made, further improving safety,
attractiveness and addressing some of the issues raised. Proposed
actions are set out in the report, but these will take time and
funding to develop and deliver. As such it is considered sensible
to retain the scheme in its current form whilst these improvements
are developed.