The Traffic and Road Safety Advisory Panel (TARSAP) met on Wednesday 10 July 2024 to discuss traffic and parking schemes, road safety reports, and a petition from residents. The panel noted that no public questions were received.

Petition Regarding Stratton Close Parking Restrictions

The panel received a petition from residents of Stratton Close, Edgware, HA8 6PH, requesting the implementation of double yellow lines on the left-hand side of the road entering the estate from the roundabout. The petition, which contained 59 signatures, highlighted that vehicles parking on both sides of the road were causing obstructions and restricting access for essential services such as refuse collection and emergency vehicles. The panel resolved to receive the petition and refer it to the Corporate Director of Place for consideration.

Traffic and Parking Schemes Programme Update 2024-25

An update was provided on the 2024-25 traffic and parking management programme of works. The panel queried why only one scheme, Mollison Way, was mentioned as nearing completion, despite officers having committed to commencing consultations on other schemes at the previous meeting. Clarification was sought regarding the timelines for consultations on Northumberland Road, Lucas Avenue, and Southfield Park, and the prioritisation of Southfield Park over Grimsdyke Road.

Officers explained that Mollison Way was almost complete, and Pinner Park Avenue would be addressed in the summer. Consultations for Northumberland Road, Lucas Avenue, and Southfield Park had been delayed due to the General Election but would commence as soon as feasible. Southfield Park was prioritised due to historical local opposition to a proposed 20mph zone in Grimsdyke Road, and because Southfield Park had experienced collisions.

The panel also raised concerns about ensuring disadvantaged children received bicycles and cycling training. Officers stated they would explore ways to provide bicycles and offer Learn to Ride sessions in schools, complementing the existing Bikeability programme.

The discussion also touched upon compliance with the government's Local Transport Note (LTN) 1/20, which is a requirement for receiving funding. While officers confirmed that future schemes would aim for compliance, it was acknowledged that compromises might sometimes be necessary. The panel expressed concerns about road safety for cyclists, noting that driver behaviour was a significant factor in accidents, and that simple road markings were insufficient to ensure safety.

Road Fatalities Report

The panel received an update on traffic-related fatalities on borough roads over the past 18 months and the actions taken by officers. The Cycling Advisor expressed concern about the lack of widespread 20mph speed limits, citing the 40mph limit on George V Avenue, where a fatality had occurred, as an example of a road where speeds were regularly exceeded. The advisor questioned why default 20mph limits could not be implemented, noting that other London boroughs had seen reduced fatalities after introducing them. The panel suggested writing to car manufacturers to request the introduction of speed limiters in vehicles.

Other Business

The panel appointed Councillor Thaya Idaikkadar as Vice-Chair for the 2024/2025 Municipal Year. It was noted that no public questions were received and no declarations of interest were made by members. The minutes from the previous meeting on 13 May 2024 were confirmed as a correct record.