Agenda, decisions and minutes

At this point Members are asked to declare any personal or prejudicial interests they might have in the business on the agenda.

Members were asked to declare at this point in the meeting any personal or prejudicial interests they might have in the business on the agenda.  None were declared.

To approve and sign the minutes of the last meeting of the Decision Session – Executive Member for City Strategy held on 2 June 2009.

RESOLVED:             That the minutes of the last meeting of the Decision Session – Executive Member for City Strategy held on 2 June 2009 be approved and signed by the Executive Member as a correct record.

It is at this point in the meeting that members of the public who have registered their wish to speak can do so. The deadline for registering is by 5pm the working day before the meeting. Members of the public can speak on specific planning applications or on other agenda items or matters within the remit of the committee.

To register please contact the Democracy Officer for the meeting, on the details at the foot of this agenda.

It was reported that there had been eleven registrations to speak at the meeting under the Council’s Public Participation Scheme. Details of these speakers are set out under the individual agenda items.

Councillor Simpson-Laing spoke on the general issue of lifetime homes.  She drew attention to the statistics demonstrating the country’s ageing population and the need to ensure that housing was appropriate to meet the needs of older or disabled people. All new public sector funded housing in England would be required to conform with the Lifetime Homes Standard from 2011, with 2013 being the target for private housing.  It was therefore important that action was taken as soon as possible and that this issue was addressed within the Local Development Framework.

RESOLVED:That the Executive Member agreed that the issue of Lifetime Homes Standard be referred to the LDF Working Group for consideration¹.

REASON:      To ensure that consideration is given to the Lifetime Homes Standard.

This reports examines options for extending the off-road cycle facilities on Beckfield Lane. The Executive Member is asked to consider these options in order to allow this scheme to progress.

RESOLVED:             That the Executive Member authorises the continued design of, and public consultation on, the proposal shown in Annex C to the officer report.

REASON:                  To allow the scheme to progress in comparison with other cycle schemes around the city.

The Executive Member considered a report which looked at options for extending the recently constructed off-road cycle facilities on Beckfield Lane between Boroughbridge Road and Ostman Road, to the junction with Wetherby Road.

The Executive Member referred to further written representations he had received from:

• Councillor D’Agorne, who agreed that the scheme was worthwhile but suggested that there were other schemes in the capital programme that were a higher priority in terms of reducing accidents, promoting cycling and developing a coherent cycle network, notably Blossom Street and Fishergate Gyratory.
• Peter Pagliaro, York Access Group, in support of the extension to the new shared path, believing that it would improve safe access not only to pupils and others at Manor CE School, but also to cyclists and those with special needs. 
• Susan and Julian Jones, local residents, in support of the proposal to extend the shared path believing that it would improve safety and improve access for cyclists, wheelchair users and those with special needs.
• Geoff and Dianne Henman, residents, in support of the proposal to eventually extend the new shared path along both sides of Beckfield Lane.
• David Brown, Secretary York Access Group, in support of the implementation of the proposals at the earliest opportunity but had concerns about shared paths without a tactile division recognisable by guide dogs.
• Adrian Pagliaro, resident, in support of the scheme believing the proposed extension would improve safety on a busy and dangerous stretch of road, particularly for children travelling to school.
• Debbie Pagliaro, resident, in support of the proposal as the shared path would improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians.
• Reverend Phil Carman, resident,  in support of the proposal as the fast moving traffic in Beckfield Lane presented dangerous road conditions for cyclists, especially children travelling to Manor CE School.

Peter Pagliaro of York Access Group, spoke in support of the proposal.  He stated that the new shared path was being well-used, and had also been welcomed by wheelchair users.  The latest proposal was also well-thought out and would improve the safety of cyclists.

Paul Hepworth, Cycling Touring Club, expressed concern regarding the proposed toucan crossing near the Ostman Road junction which would necessitate cyclists travelling alongside Beckfield Lane to pass the entrance/exit to the Civic Amenity site.  He suggested that consideration be given to siting the toucan crossing on the B1224 side of the tip access or if this were not possible, to install some minimal physical calming to be installed to reduce vehicle speeds on entering or leaving the Amenity site.  Officers responded to the concerns regarding the siting of the crossing and explained that a pedestrian survey had taken place which showed a higher number of pedestrians crossing near Ostman Road, and the proposed siting of the crossing removed the need for cyclists to cross the access to the shops.  As part of the detailed design further consideration would be given to access to the Amenity site.

Following consideration of all comments received the Executive Member then considered the following  ...  view the full minutes text for item 13.

This report is an update on progress with the development of proposals to improve the Fulford Road corridor and to seek a decision on a scheme for improvements to a section of Fulford Main Street to the Heslington Lane junction.

RESOLVED:             That the Executive Member for City Strategy:

i)                    Notes the contents of the report and its annexes.

ii)Agrees that Main Street (North) Option 3 as shown on Annex C should form the basis for the improvements to Fulford Main Street north of the Heslington Lane junction.

iii)Agrees that Heslington Lane Junction Option 2 as shown on Annex C should form the basis for the improvements to the Heslington Lane junction.

iv)                That officers use delegated powers to make any further minor changes to the layouts with the aim of satisfying, as far as possible, any outstanding concerns raised by members.

REASON:To improve conditions along this section of the corridor whilst addressing the concerns of Fulford Parish Council and local residents.

Consideration was given to a report which updated the Executive Member on progress with the development of proposals to improve the Fulford Road Corridor, in particular the section of Fulford Main Street to the north of Heslington Lane and Heslington Lane junction.

The Executive Member referred to further written representation he had received from:

• Councillor D’Agorne who generally supported the conclusions in the report but was concerned that there were no proposed time limits for waiting in the parking bays.  He had also raised concerns regarding the proposed pavement widening in front of 15-21 Main Street.  Whilst agreeing that the pavement needed widening at the corner of Heslington Lane, he believed that the rest was of adequate width and it would be better for a 1.5m wide cycle lane to be installed instead.
• Councillor Aspden supported the recommendations in the report but had been asked by the Parish Council to raise some questions with regards to the Fulford Park elements of the scheme prior to the meeting.  Officers had responded to the questions as follows:

-         It was the intention to retain the existing bus shelter pending further discussions regarding its possible refurbishment outside of the proposed improvement works and that the previous proposals for a new standard shelter at this location had been dropped.

-         The option to retain some parking on the western side near to Fulford Park would require a build-out to provide a suitable bus boarding point.  This was an essential feature of the proposed option in Annex C, unless the number of parking spaces to be provided was significantly reduced.

-         The narrowing at the entrance to Fulford Park had been reduced from that shown previously in view of local concerns.  The Council was keen to reduce the pedestrian crossing distance in view of concerns about the existing arrangements raised in an initial road safety audit, whilst taking account of the concerns about vehicle ingress and egress.  It was suggested that the proposed new kerb line be set out and discussed with Councillor Aspden prior to implementation.  Network Management had also indicated that they would consider a localised section of waiting restriction on Fulford Park near the junction if parked vehicles were making it difficult to get in and out.

Bryn Bircher, Main Street resident, spoke in support of Option 3. He stated that cycling had become easier since the route had been introduced and he looked forward to its extension.  The village was unique in that it was close to York but had a rural character.  It was therefore important that the improvements were also in keeping with the conservation area. 

Paul Hepworth, representing Cycling Touring Group, stated that continuity in cycle lane provision would encourage people to cycle rather than use a car.  He requested that although residents would like to see the parking bays retained this should not be at the expense of continuity in routes.

Verna Campbell, Chair of Fulford Parish Council, stated that the Parish Council was generally in favour  ...  view the full minutes text for item 14.

This report provides details of a proposed flood protection scheme to reduce flood risk from the River Ouse to properties on Peckitt Street and Friar’s Terrace. The Executive Member is asked to agree the principle of implementing the scheme.

RESOLVED:             That the Executive Member agrees the principle of implementing the Peckitt Street and Friar’s Terrace flood protection scheme.

REASON:                  To provide the most reliable protection against flooding and significantly reduce the resources required.

The Executive Member considered a report, which provided details of a proposed flood protection scheme to reduce flood risk from the River Ouse to properties on Peckitt Street and Friar’s Terrace and to maintain access during floods to the fire station and to thirteen more properties.

Consideration was given to the following options:

1.      Do not build scheme and withdraw from providing the temporary protection.

2.      Do not build scheme but continue to provide temporary protection.

3.      Build the proposed scheme.

The Executive Member stated that the scheme would provide protection from flooding for a small number of riverside properties.  It would avoid the need for sandbagging and should be quicker, cheaper and less resource intensive to activate.  The scheme had general support and therefore he gave it his approval.

RESOLVED:             That the Executive Member agrees the principle of implementing the Peckitt Street and Friar’s Terrace flood protection scheme¹.

REASON:                  To provide the most reliable protection against flooding and significantly reduce the resources required.

This report considers the closure of an access point leading on to Scarcroft Green from Scarcroft Road back lane, using Gating Order legislation in order to prevent crime and anti-social behaviour associated with the back lane. The Executive Member is recommended to make a Gating Order to close the access point.

RESOLVED: That the Executive Member accepts Option B and resolves to:

i)                    Authorise the Director of City Strategy to instruct the Head of Civic, Democratic and Legal Services to make a Gating Order to close the access point/gap in the boundary, leading onto Scarcroft Green from Scarcroft Road back lane, Micklegate Ward, in accordance with s129A of the Highways Act 1980 and to provide a gate.

ii)                  Advise residents of Scarcroft View that the Council will agree to them having access via the gate onto the green should they make a financial contribution towards the costs of installing and maintaining the gate.

REASON:      In order that the access point/gap in the railings, leading onto Scarcroft Green from Scarcroft Road back lane, Micklegate Ward, can be closed by providing a gate to help prevent crime and anti-social behaviour currently associated with the back lane

The Executive Member considered a report which examined the closure of an access point in the low wall and ornamental railings, leading onto Scarcroft Green from Scarcroft Road back lane. It was proposed to use Gating Order legislation in order to prevent crime and anti social behaviour associated with the back lane.

The Executive Member referred to further written representations he had received from:

·        Jaki Boston, Scarcroft View resident, expressing concerns if the access to the green were to be blocked off and requesting that a gate be installed and that Scarcroft View residents be granted access.  She would be willing to contribute towards the costs involved.

·        Sue Edwards, Scarcroft View resident, supporting the views put forward by Jaki Boston and detailing incidents of disruptive behaviour that were currently occurring in the area.

·        Rob King, Scarcroft View resident, detailing incidents of anti-social behaviour that were taking place and stating that he was in support of a gating order.  As residents of Scarcroft View would be the primary users of this access, a gate with key pad should be considered.

·        Katherine Nightingale and Tom Stirling, residents of Scarcroft View, expressing support for Option B in the report.

·        Charlotte Morris and Joe Maitland, residents of Scarcroft View, opposing the recommendation of Option C in the report and expressing support for Option B.  They were in support of the access being closed off only if the owners of 1-5 Scarcroft View were allowed to continue to have access to the green by key or pin code.

·        Lynn Kellett, resident of Scarcroft View, objecting to the permanent closure of the opening and expressing support for the installation of an access gate.

·        David Grabaskey, resident of Scarcroft View, drawing attention to incidents of criminal behaviour but requesting that residents not be asked to contribute towards the costs of a gate.

Peter Lyons, local resident, spoke in support of the closure.  He gave examples of criminal activity that had taken place in the area and stated that he supported the proposal for the gap to be closed. He had no objections to a gate being installed and thanked officers for the way in which they had consulted with residents on this matter.

Wayne Edwards, local resident, expressed concerns at the legal implications if the gate were to be paid for by residents. 

Officers gave assurances that the recommendations in the report were in accordance with legislation.

The Executive Member gave consideration to the following options:

Option A:  Do not authorise the making of the proposed Gating Order and leave the gap open for public use.  This option is not recommended.

Option B:  Authorise the making of a Gating Order, but install a gate to restrict access through the gap rather than restore the low wall and railings to its original condition.  Additionally, give the PIN code required to operate the gate to residents of Scarcroft View only.  This option is not recommended.

Option C:  Authorise the making of a Gating Order and restrict  ...  view the full minutes text for item 16.

This report advises the Executive Member of the outcome of the Village Accessibility Review, which examined the safety and ease of access issues at eight junctions with radial routes into York. The Executive Member is asked to determine which schemes should be taken forward for implementation in this financial year.

RESOLVED:          That the Executive Member for City Strategy agrees to:

                        i)          Note the content of the report, particularly Table 1 which outlines the issues, potential solutions and  their cost estimates;

ii)     Authorise the commissioning of more detailed designs for the following:

·        A166 Stamford Bridge Road / Church Balk traffic islands;

·        B1363 / Mill Lane traffic signals and 40mph speed restriction limit and

·        Strensall Road / Towthorpe Road / Towthorpe Moor Lane (extend 40mph speed restriction limit to south of the junctions)

schemes prioritised for implementation in the 2009/10 financial year, and including further evaluation of the refinements suggested by local Ward Members, and that detailed proposals be reported to a subsequent Decisions Session - Executive Member for City Strategy.

iii)   Request officers to reply to the lead petitioner for the A19 / Main Street, Deighton scheme, and

iv)    Requests officers to investigate whether any low cost options are available for the early resolution of problems at the North Lane junction.

Consideration was given to a report which advised the Executive Member of the outcome of the Village Accessibility Review which examined the safety and ease of access issues at eight junctions with radial routes into York.

The following were the locations of the junctions shown on maps at Annex A to the report:

·        B1363 / Mill Lane (Wigginton)

·        Strensall Road / Towthorpe Road / Towthorpe Moor Lane (Strensall)

·        A64 / Towthorpe Moor Lane / Hazelbush Lane (Stockton on the Forest)

·        A64 / Barr Lane (Stockton on the Forest)

·        A64 / North Lane (Huntington)

·        A166 Stamford Bridge Road / Church Balk (Dunnington)

·        A1079 / Common Road / Common Lane (Dunnington)

·        A19 / Main Street (Deighton)

The Executive Member referred to further written representation he had received from:

·        Councillor Firth, in support of the Mill Lane scheme and suggesting that the 40mph zone should be extended further along the B1363 to further enhance road safety, particularly as there was a local bus stop at the junction.

·        Councillor R Watson, in support of the Mill Lane scheme and suggesting that the 40mph speed limit was the way forward and that traffic lights were essential.

Councillor Firth expressed concern regarding the safety at the road junction and drew attention to the collisions and near misses that had occurred.  There had been an increase in the bus service and a car boot sale was held near to the junction.  Traffic lights needed to be installed and a reduction in the speed limit imposed.  The proposal was welcomed as it would improve road safety.

The Executive Member summarised that the Executive had reprioritised the transport capital programme for the current year to include a programme aimed at making access to rural areas safer and easier.  Eight options for the use of funding, which extended over and beyond the next two years, had been considered, with officers making recommendations on prioritisation.  In the main the objective of the prioritisation was to reduce the number of accidents on the roads.  The accidents record at the three recommended priorities for 2009/10 were:

Mill Lane, Wigginton – 4 accidents, 7 casualties, 3 serious

Strensall Road, Strensall – 6 accidents, 10 casualties, all slight

Church Balk, Dunnington – 6 accidents, 8 casualties, 1 fatal

RESOLVED:          That the Executive Member for City Strategy agrees to:

                        i)          Note the content of the report, particularly Table 1 which outlines the issues, potential solutions and their cost estimates;

ii)     Authorise the commissioning of more detailed designs for the following:

·        A166 Stamford Bridge Road / Church Balk traffic islands;

·        B1363 / Mill Lane traffic signals and 40mph speed restriction limit and

·        Strensall Road / Towthorpe Road / Towthorpe Moor Lane (extend 40mph speed restriction limit to south of the junctions)

schemes prioritised for implementation in the 2009/10 financial year, and including further evaluation of the refinements suggested by local Ward Members, and that detailed proposals be reported to a subsequent Decisions Session - Executive Member for City Strategy¹.

iii)   Requests officers to reply to  ...  view the full minutes text for item 17.

This report consolidates the 2009/10 City Strategy Capital Programme to include the carryover schemes that were not completed in 2008/09 and makes adjustments to scheme allocations to align with the latest cost estimates and delivery projections. The Executive Member is asked to approve the carryovers and the increase to the 2009/10 capital budget.

 RESOLVED: That the Executive Member for City Strategy agrees to:

i)          Approve the carryover schemes and adjustments set out in Annexes 1 and 2 of the report;

ii)        Approve the increase to the 2009/10 City Strategy capital budget, subject to the approval of the Executive;

iii)      Request officers to fully reflect the decisions taken by the Executive on 31 March 2009 when next presenting the capital programme for review.

REASON:                  To enable the effective management and monitoring of the council’s capital programme.

The Executive Member considered a report which detailed the consolidation of the 2009/10 City Strategy Capital Programme and carryovers that were not completed in 2008/09 and made adjustments to scheme allocations which aligned the latest cost estimates and delivery projections.

The Executive Member stated that the report needed to be amended to conform with the decision of the Executive taken on 31 March 2009.  Otherwise the refinements to the programme were aimed at producing the most economical way of progressing improvements in the Fulford Road area whilst sustaining the improvements elsewhere which reflected the Council’s desire to minimise accidents and encourage residents to chose the most appropriate form of travel to meet their needs.  The majority of the expenditure was aimed at schemes which benefited all types of transport (e.g. resurfacing schemes), while the largest single project – York Access phase 1, will mainly be spend on car parking provision and improvements to the A59 roundabout.

 RESOLVED: That the Executive Member for City Strategy agrees to:

i)                    Approve the carryover schemes and adjustments set out in Annexes 1 and 2 of the report.

ii)                  Approve the increase to the 2009/10 City Strategy capital budget, subject to the approval of the Executive¹.

iii)                Request officers to fully reflect the decisions taken by the Executive on 31 March 2009 when next presenting the capital programme for review².

REASON:                  To enable the effective management and monitoring of the council’s capital programme.