Decision details

Purpose of Report: The report will consider the representations received to the statutory consultation for the amendment to list of exemptions for vehicle movements within the pedestrian area, with officer recommendation for a future course of action. The report will also provide an update on the policies and protocols for the management of the HVM measure that will be placed at the entry/exit points of the pedestrianised area.

The Executive Member will be asked to consider the representations received and decide on if the proposed amendments to the list of the exemptions on which vehicle movements are permitted within the pedestrian area. The Executive Member will also be asked to approve an engagement process to begin to share information on how waivers can be applied for under the new policies and procedures, this will include an update of the National Street Gazetteer, to keep all statutory undertakers updated with the proposed access restrictions to the pedestrian area.

Resolved:

                      i.         Approved as advertised the amendment the Traffic Regulation Order to amend the list of exemptions to reduce the number of vehicles accessing the pedestrian area during the hours of operation from 1 October 2022.

Reason:     To reduce the number of vehicles within the pedestrian area to reduce the level of conflict between vehicles and pedestrians to help improve pedestrian safety within the pedestrian area.

                     ii.         Approved further communication with residents and businesses within the pedestrian area to make them aware of the policy and procedures that will be implemented in order to gain approved vehicle access with the pedestrian area.

Reason:     To provide clarity on the process to gain vehicle access to the pedestrian area if required for works or in an emergency situation.

                    iii.        Approved an amendment to the National Street Gazetteer to provide information on time that vehicle access in to the streets within the pedestrian area is prohibited.

Reason:     To provide utility companies with information on restrictions on vehicle access to the pedestrian area once the Hostile Vehicle Mitigation measures have been put in place to reduce utility vehicles trying the access the pedestrian area without the correct approval.