Contact: Jonathan Crabb, ext 6047

1. Summary

1.1 This report updates the position on the development of schemes within Hythe.

2. Background

2.1 There are four schemes in Hythe being coordinated through the Hythe Steering Group. These are:

(i) The Interchange;

(ii) The Pier;

(iii) The Town Centre Link Road; and

(iv) The Promenade.

3. Hythe Interchange (£600,000)

3.1 The County Council's partner consultant, Atkins, is carrying out the investigation and preliminary design (up to feasibility stage) of a major transport and environmental improvement scheme in the Hythe Pier area. Information relating to the current transport interchange has been collected, including bus routes and frequencies, proposed cycle routes, car park data, traffic counts, air quality data and information on the ferry service itself. Previous reports and local authority Local Plans have also been reviewed. Additionally, Atkins met with the ferry operator, White Horse Ferries, to ascertain its views on the future of the interchange, and also with General Estates, developers which own land around the interchange. The consultation process was agreed with the Hythe Centre Advisory Group at a meeting on 12 November 2001. Further meetings will take place keeping the group informed of proposals, which provides valuable feedback on schemes.

3.2 The options for the interchange being prepared will be brought forward in consultation with the local Member and local groups. These will be prepared in conjunction with the proposed Hythe Town Centre Link Road.

3.3 A comprehensive survey of travel movements in Hythe has recently been undertaken, along with a questionnaire on the origin and destinations of ferry passengers and their views on facilities and services. The results will aid the development of all four schemes in Hythe. Discussions are taking place with South West Trains regarding a potential contribution towards improvements at the Interchange.

4. Hythe Pier

4.1 Maintenance work on the Pier started last summer, at a cost of £100,000 including timber decking and some hand rails plus £50,000 towards replacing the pontoon.

4.2 A comprehensive report on the structural integrity of Hythe Pier was completed in December 2001. The report confirms that whilst the superstructure of the Pier is in a safe condition, there is an urgent need for investment to maintain this position both immediately and in the longer term. Following discussions with the owners of the Pier a programme of work has been provisionally developed. This was the subject of a report to the Executive Member for Environment, who approved additional funding of £450,000 over the five year period beginning in the 2003/04 financial year.

5. Hythe Town Centre Link Road

5.1 This scheme is included as a proposal in the current Local Plan to be funded from developer contributions. To enable adequate information for future consultation and consideration of the planning application, current traffic movements in the area are being reviewed. This project will be prepared in conjunction with other schemes in Hythe, including the Interchange.

6. Hythe Promenade

6.1 Improvements to the Promenade are being planned as a joint venture between Hampshire County Council and New Forest District Council. The scheme forms part of the overall package of works coordinated by the Hythe Steering Group. It pursues adopted Local Plan policies by linking environmental improvements on the Promenade to Local Transport Plan aspirations for improving pedestrian access to the town centre and pier. Design work and statutory consultations are proceeding following expressions of general support from the Hythe Centre Action Group and local Members.

6.2 It is planned to hold an exhibition of proposals for public comment in November this year. Funding is from the approved Hampshire Country Towns Initiative programme, Section 106 contributions and highways special maintenance monies. A Heritage Lottery Bid is also proposed. A start on site is planned for late 2003/4.

Recommendation

That the report be noted.

7356/JC