The Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee met on Thursday 25 June 2026 to discuss a range of issues including the council's policy and strategy overview, petitions regarding parking and pedestrian crossings, and the award of new contracts for e-bikes and highway maintenance. Key decisions included the approval of the Sutton Town Centre Public Realm and Placemaking Plan and the extension of highway term maintenance contracts.

Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee Policy and Strategy Overview

The committee received an overview of the Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee's role and responsibilities, which includes strategic oversight of services such as parks, waste management, environmental health, parking, transport, highways, and wellbeing services. Key developments highlighted include ongoing action on climate change, the development of a new environment strategy, lobbying for better public transport, road safety initiatives, the rollout of EV charging points, and the implementation of a new parking contract. The committee was informed about the council's commitment to achieving net zero, supported by projects like passive house housing and the expansion of the Sutton Decentralised Energy Network (SDEN). The sustainable transport strategy aims to improve road safety, air quality, and accessibility, with ongoing campaigns for improved public transport infrastructure. The committee also noted the progress of the waste contract with Veolia and the integration of more inclusive leisure offers. Strategic risks identified include reducing carbon emissions and ensuring resilience to extreme weather events. The committee was asked to note the role and remit as set out in the report, which was agreed.

Petition to Extend Controlled Parking Hours on Grove Road

A petition was received requesting an extension of controlled parking hours on Grove Road, near Sutton High Street, from 8:00 AM–6:30 PM to 7:30 AM–8:30 AM, Monday to Friday. The petition highlighted parking pressures caused by Sutton High School, impacting residents who struggle to find parking in the evenings. The lead officer summarised the petition and the council's position, noting that the Grove Road area is part of the Green Zone Controlled Parking Zone. The recommendation was to note the petition and approve a review of the current parking arrangements, giving due consideration to the request. This was agreed by the committee.

Petition for a Pedestrian/Zebra Crossing in Thornton Road

The committee considered a petition requesting the installation of a zebra crossing on Thornton Road, between Waltham Road and Tewkesbury Road, for the safety of children and parents attending Tweeddale Primary School. The lead petitioner, Abdul Khan, presented the case, highlighting previous requests and the perceived lack of action. An initial review of collision data indicated two slight collisions at a nearby junction in the last five years, neither involving pedestrians. Officers explained that while the council would investigate the feasibility, funding for any subsequent project would require a bid to Transport for London (TfL), and the earliest the feasibility assessment could begin was October 2026 due to existing commitments. Councillor Goetheff raised a procedural question about the timing of petitions being brought to committee before full officer investigation, which was clarified by Spencer Palmer. Councillor Jenner sought assurance that observational data would be considered alongside official collision data. The committee agreed to note the petition and to carry out a feasibility investigation, with findings to be reported back to the lead petitioner.

Sutton Town Centre Public Realm and Placemaking Plan

The committee was asked to approve the Sutton Town Centre Public Realm and Placemaking Plan as the council's strategic framework for guiding future public realm investment. Luan Bautista Hideo, the council's climate management manager, presented the plan, which provides a long-term framework for a greener, safer, more inclusive, and vibrant town centre. The plan is needed due to significant changes in the town centre driven by council and private sector investment, and aims to coordinate public realm evolution. Community engagement involving over 1,000 people informed the plan's priorities, including safer streets, more planting, clear movement routes, and durable materials. The delivery approach is flexible, with implementation expected over 10-15 years, and an estimated total value of £19-£29 million. An initial budget of £1.3 million is allocated for demonstrator projects and scoping. Councillors raised points about prioritising green spaces, the need for a clear funding plan, and engaging with experts on planting. Concerns were also raised about the conflict between pedestrians and cyclists on the high street, and the complexity of managing delivery drivers. Councillor Mattey highlighted the significant funding gap and the need for a viable funding plan. The committee voted to adopt the plan as the council's strategic framework.

Highways Term Maintenance Contracts Extension

The committee was asked to approve the extension of three existing highway and transport service contracts with RJ Dance and FM Conway for a further three years, securing services until 2030. Officers recommended the extension, citing the contractors' consistent delivery of good service and achievement of 100% on key performance indicators. The extension includes stricter performance targets, locked-in social value and environmental commitments, and monetary cash savings. The alternative would be a costly two-year procurement process. Councillor Mattey raised concerns about ambiguity in the contract details and the equalities impact assessment. Sarah Wilden clarified that the extension was within the confines of the original contracts. Councillor Stone raised an issue regarding a recent resurfacing project being dug up by utilities, which officers agreed to investigate. Councillor Rujan questioned the 100% KPI figures and the clarity of the 24-hour measurement period. The committee approved the extension of the highways term maintenance contracts alongside minor variations.

E-bike Contract Award

The committee considered the outcome of a competitive tender process for the award of two new e-bike hire concession contracts. The existing contract with Forrest was extended until September 2026, and a new procurement exercise was conducted. The new contracts aim to provide more bikes, wider coverage, tighter controls over parking and usage, and introduce a revenue stream for the council. Key improvements include rider liability insurance, financing for parking bays, automated notifications for incorrectly parked bikes, and speed restrictions in specified areas. Councillor Stone raised questions about the timing and location of new bays, consultation with ward councillors, and ensuring bikes are not parked chaotically. Sarah Wilden explained the hybrid model for parking, with geofenced bays on pavements in high-density areas and buffer zones, and the intention to roll out on-street bays. Councillor Jenner questioned the requirement for bikes to end journeys in bays and the stability of certain bike designs. Concerns were raised about the robustness of rider liability insurance and the process for making claims. Spencer Palmer addressed these points, highlighting the tracking capabilities of the bikes and the advantages over general road traffic collisions. Councillor Mattey raised concerns about the legality of pavement riding and the potential for accidents. The committee agreed to note and endorse the award of the e-bike hire concession contract to two suppliers, with one abstention.

The meeting concluded at 9:36 pm.