Archived decisions

Contact: Caroline Bonner, ext 6592 email: [email protected]

1. Summary

1.1 This report sets out the progress on several studies and schemes being undertaken in the North East Hampshire Transport Strategy (NEHTS) area, as follows:

(i) North Lane, Aldershot

(ii) A323 Ash Road Studies

(iii) North Camp Area Transport Study

(iv) B3272 Route Management Strategy.

1.2 It should be noted that the funding for the schemes listed is not yet approved.

2. North Lane, Aldershot

2.1 The North Lane feasibility study considered options for restricting the flow of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and other vehicles under the railway bridge at North Lane, Aldershot. Four preliminary options for the railway bridge were identified for consideration. These were: a weight restriction; a height restriction; a one-way option; and full closure. Network reassignment models were used to test the four options. The assessment revealed that although a small change in HGV movements occurred there was a marked increase in vehicle movements for residents along Redan Road and the High Street, therefore negating any benefit gained.

2.2 It must also be noted that Project Connaught, a proposed development sited to the north of this study area (and the subject of separate report on this agenda), may change existing travel patterns. The feasibility study concluded with a recommendation to `Do Nothing' at the present time. However, this may need to be reviewed in the light of development proposals for Project Connaught.

3. A323 Ash Road, Aldershot - Studies

3.1 A report reviewing the suitability of the 1998 proposals for A323 Ash Road/High Street traffic management is now complete. It has taken account of the recommendations for North Lane at the railway bridge. The recommendations of the report advise that the scheme be progressed to preliminary design stage. Again, it must be noted that Project Connaught, located to the north of the study corridor, may have a large impact on the A323 Ash Road/ High Street. It is suggested that further design work be undertaken to identify an initial phase that could be implemented prior to the Project Connaught development.

4. North Camp Wider Area Study

4.1 The North Camp wider area study was commissioned to compile information and prepare a draft list of initial proposals to take forward to feasibility stage to resolve transport and highway issues in this area. The study follows the Regeneration of Older Urban Areas (ROUA) scheme and the Sustainable Suburbs Study, which focused on the North Camp shopping area.

4.2 The North Camp wider area study is designed to provide a consistent strategy for the whole area. As well as providing a summary of the available data, the study presents some initial proposals based on site observations and concerns expressed by Rushmoor Borough Council and residents. These include:

(i) amendments to the junction alignments and priorities;

(ii) junction narrowing to reduce pedestrian crossing distances;

(iii) formalisation of on street parking; and

(iv) traffic management along Park Road to reduce perceived `rat-running'.

4.3 However, some of these draft proposals will be subject to the confirmation of existing traffic and pedestrian movements in the study area. Indeed, the report recognised that there is no traffic data available which quantifies the degree of `rat-running' experienced and therefore recommends that a detailed registration plate survey to be undertaken. Again, it is noted that Project Connaught situated to the south of the study area may have a substantial impact on traffic movements.

5. B3272 Route Management Strategy

5.1 The final report for the B3272 Route Management Strategy (RMS) is now complete, following the results of the public consultation carried out in November 2002. The final report provides comments and recommendations for the programming and implementation of the B3272 RMS.

5.2 The proposed programme takes into account the revision in the capital programme from £150,000 for the year 2003/04 to £200,000 for the year 2004/05 (report to Executive Member for Environment 24 June 2003). This is in addition to the ROUA 2003-2005 programme budget allocation for Yateley centre of £300,000.

5.3 The report proposes initially a two-phased approach for the 2004/05 allocation period as follows:

Phase 1 - Yateley

(i) Implement measures consistent with the Yateley Village Design Framework (joint initiative with the District and Town Councils and local partners);

(ii) review the provision of slip lane at Cricket Hill roundabout eastbound;

(iii) implement the proposal to improve the pedestrian link between Yateley and Sandhurst at the county boundary with Berkshire.

Phase 2 - Eversley

(i) Undertake a detailed study of Glaston Hill Road to derive extent of through traffic using this route; and

(ii) investigate the proposals to implement traffic management along The Street in Eversley as opposed to the bypass. When suitable measures are agreed it is proposed to remove the current land safeguarding for the bypass.

5.4 In addition, the following studies are required to supplement the above reviews and provide guidance for future assessments:

(i) Actively pursue the improvement of public transport through the whole study area; and

(ii) undertake more detailed review and investigation into speeds and safety concerns along the B3272.

Recommendation

That this report be noted.

8204/CB