The Traffic and Road Safety Advisory Panel met on Wednesday 13 November 2024 to discuss traffic and parking schemes, review petitions, and appoint a new adviser. The panel supported the installation of a zebra crossing on Potlock Avenue and recommended Mr Keith Maurice Nason as the new adviser.

Petitions Received

The panel received a petition with 90 signatures requesting road safety measures on Devonshire Road and Sussex Road in Harrow. The petition specifically called for the reintroduction of a 20mph speed limit, the installation of speed humps, and improved road safety measures for pedestrians crossing Pinner View at its junction with Sussex Road. The panel resolved to refer this petition to the Acting Strategic Director of Environment, Culture and Economy for consideration.

The panel also received an information report detailing petitions received since the last meeting on 10 July 2024. This report outlined the council's investigations and findings for each petition. The panel noted the report.

Traffic and Parking Schemes Programme Update

An update on the 2024/25 traffic and parking management programme of works was presented to the panel. Officers presented two potential schemes for funding: a footway extension on Common Road or a zebra crossing on Potlock Avenue. The panel expressed its support for the zebra crossing on Potlock Avenue.

The Cycling Adviser raised concerns regarding the selection of locations for the Healthy School Streets Programme, specifically questioning whether independent schools were being excluded. Additionally, the adviser voiced concerns about the promotion of back routes for cyclists, stating that her association did not support this approach. She also highlighted that a broken white line on a road does not adequately protect cyclists from motor traffic, as drivers may park in these designated areas, forcing cyclists into overtaking traffic, a manoeuvre she described as only for skilled and confident cyclists. The panel noted the report.

Appointment of Adviser

The panel received a report concerning the appointment of a non-voting adviser for the 2024-25 municipal year. This appointment was necessitated by the retirement of Mr Anthony Wood, who had previously represented the Harrow Public Transport Users Advisory Association on the panel. The Chair and the panel expressed their gratitude to Mr Wood for his many years of service and professionalism.

The panel resolved to recommend to the Portfolio Holder for Finance and Highways that Mr Keith Maurice Nason be appointed as the new adviser, representing the Harrow Public Transport Users Advisory Association.