Decision details

9.1  The Mayor introduced the agenda item.

9.2  Cllr Coban outlined the report as set out.

RESOLVED:

Cabinet:

  I.  Approved to make permanent the Harrington Hill Primary School School Street and Mount Pleasant Lane Low Traffic Neighbourhood experimental scheme on 25 March 2022, with amendments described in this report, and:

  II.  Authorised the Head of Streetscene to make and implement the necessary permanent traffic orders, subject to the requirements of the Local Authorities’ Traffic Orders (Procedure) (England and Wales) Regulations 1996.

  III.  Authorised the Head of Streetscene to make minor adjustments to the proposals as required, following design development and feedback from key stakeholders and local residents.

  IV.  Authorised the Head of Streetscene to implement permanent features to replace the existing temporary planters to reinforce the existence of the restrictions, improve the aesthetics of the scheme and achieve greater compliance, subject to funding and feedback from stakeholders and local residents.

REASONS FOR DECISION

This report contains the results of the monitoring and evaluation of the experimental scheme, including consultation responses and objections received for consideration.

Evidence from the monitoring and evaluation of the experimental scheme shows:

·  Low traffic outside Harrington Hill Primary School at school opening and closing times, suggesting reduced congestion outside the gate;

·  Improved air quality by reducing transport emissions near the Harrington Hill Primary School entrance;

·  Increased road safety and accessibility for non-motorised users;

·  Increased walking and cycling to Harrington Hill Primary School for pupils and parents/carers;

·  Increased provision of space for social distancing outside the school gate and in the street/approach to the school;

·  Reduction of through-traffic using Mount Pleasant Lane to bypass traffic signals on Upper Clapton Road.

Therefore, the proposals will help to make Hackney a more sustainable, greener and safer borough by encouraging more sustainable modes of transport, which in turn contributes to improving local air quality, reducing car dominance, reducing accidents and creating environments that prioritise walking, cycling and public transport.

The Council is also committed to its 2019 Climate Emergency Declaration to achieve a 45% reduction in emissions against 2010 levels and net zero emissions by 2040. Delivering School Streets and a reduction in the number of cars rat-running through our borough is seen as a key contributor to Hackney achieving this target.

Under the Traffic Management Act 2004, local authorities have a duty of care to all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, and to facilitate a more sustainable and better use of road space.