Contact: Peter Syddall, ext 6050 e-mail: [email protected]

1. Summary

1.1 This report describes progress on the 2003/04 South West Hampshire Transport Strategy (SWHTS) programme and other key strategy issues and schemes.

2. Capital Programme

2.1 The draft Transport Capital Programme 2004/05 and 2005/06 is set out elsewhere on the agenda.

3. South Coast Multi-Modal Study

3.1 The South Coast Multi-Modal Study (SoCoMMS) was set up to develop a transport strategy for the corridor between Southampton and Margate which addresses congestion, safety and environmental problems and supports regeneration and economic growth. The final report for this Study was formally presented to the Secretary of State for Transport and his response to SoCoMMS was announced on 9 July 2003. Many, but not all, of the Study's recommendations were supported; in particular bypasses and road improvements proposed in East and West Sussex, including Arundel, Chichester and Worthing, were not supported, due to the impact on environmentally-sensitive areas.

3.2 Within Hampshire there are several key projects in relation to the strategic highway network to be taken forward, and the County Council is keen to support the Highways Agency to ensure the full benefits of the proposals in terms of Intelligent Transport Systems and the impact on the local road network are achieved. The proposals are:

(i) M27 technology improvements (currently being taken forward by the Highways Agency).

(ii) M27 widening between junctions 3 and 4, climbing lane between junctions 11 and 12, junction improvements and introduction of improved technology. (Detailed work on this scheme is to be carried out to bring forward proposals for entry into the Targeted Programme of Improvements, with a view to delivery over the next decade.)

(iii) A27 upgrade between the M27 and A3(M). (Under consideration for the longer term, subject to satisfactorily resolving potential environmental impacts.)

3.3 The Secretary of State also supports the Study's recommendation in relation to local transport and the development of a set of measures for tackling congestion in the main towns along the corridor. In particular this will focus on:

(i) a package of improved bus services;

(ii) park-and-ride sites;

(iii) demand management measures, including increased parking charges and, in the longer term, cordon charging;

(iv) in the longer term an extension of the South Hampshire light rail scheme from Fareham to Southampton;

(v) rail rolling-stock improvements;

(vi) new stations; and

(vii) a new chord at Eastleigh.

3.4 The timing of the Secretary of State's announcement was too late to include bids for further funding within the Local Transport Plan (LTP) Annual Progress Report submission, in relation to projects and work that need to be carried out to deliver the Study's recommendations locally. Therefore the Department for Transport (DfT) set a new deadline of 12 September 2003 for supplementary bids to cover costs of action specifically invited by the Government.

3.5 The County Council has submitted a supplementary bid totalling £1.2 million, of which £300,000 is to fund the development of an overall plan for implementing the SoCoMMS recommendations in South Hampshire, and £900,000 is for the A27 junction with Botley Road scheme at Hedge End (see section 4) and possible public transport, pedestrian and cycle measures on the A27 corridor. The plan will detail a series of short and medium term measures to promote the role of rail, bus/coach, and park-and-ride in the area as an integral part of the Solent Transport initiative. The announcement as to whether this bid is successful or not will be made as part of the full LTP settlement letter in December.

Should this bid be successful then the funding currently allocated in the Capital Programme for the A27 junction with Botley Road scheme could be reallocated to other schemes.

4. A27 Junction with Botley Road, Hedge End - Bus Access

4.1 This scheme has funding in the draft 2004/05 capital programme of £300,000 with an additional £100,000 of external funding from Southampton City Council. The intention is to re-open Botley Road for buses, cycles and emergency vehicles, with the primary aim of improving bus service times and reliability between Hedge End and Southampton.

4.2 The scheme is being developed by the County Council, Eastleigh Borough Council and Southampton City Council. A feasibility and design resource has been allocated.

5. Totton Town Centre Improvement Proposals

5.1 At the last meeting of the Panel, Members were informed about the consultations which had demonstrated clear support for the proposed town centre improvements. The Panel requested that work be undertaken on further developing the proposals. The Urban Design Framework for the Town Centre was adopted as supplementary planning guidance by New Forest District Council in April 2003. The draft capital programme, as discussed elsewhere on the agenda, includes a proposed allocation of £600,000 for the town centre during 2004/05.

5.2 A newsletter explaining the current position on the town centre proposals was distributed to all Totton households in August 2003.

5.3 Further work is progressing on developing strategies relating to car parking, heavy goods vehicles and traffic management issues, including surveys on lorry movements and the use of Testwood Lane by traffic.

5.4 Extensive work has been undertaken on assessing in more detail the overall costs of the package of transport proposals for the town centre, which is now estimated at about £22 million excluding the proposed relocation of the rail station. The cost estimation work has highlighted the important issue of the most effective means of delivering the town centre proposals. To deliver the overall scheme at this high level of cost through the area strategy process would take many years and be likely to limit funding that could be allocated to other schemes in the SWHTS area (the total proposed allocations for the SWHTS area in 2004/05 and 2005/06 are £1.5 to 2 million per year). This approach would appear unrealistic. However, at this level of cost the overall scheme could be considered and put forward for funding as a `major scheme bid' (those costing over £5 million) through the LTP process.

5.5 Officers from the Government Office for the South East (GOSE) have indicated that the proposals for Totton Town Centre are likely to be suitable for such a bid. It is considered that this is the most realistic way of delivering the vision for Totton and the Panel is asked to support this way forward. GOSE suggested it would be worth considering the submission of a bid as soon as possible. The possibility of making a submission in summer 2004 is being investigated. However, in terms of all the information, including the various technical, environmental and economic assessments, that will be required by Government to support such a bid, it may take longer to prepare.

5.6 The current draft capital programme as indicated above allows for a start in 2004/05 for Totton Town Centre. This allocation provides the opportunity to provide an initial `first phase' scheme in the town centre, consistent with the overall proposals, in advance of the large scale works to be undertaken as part of a major schemes package. This first phase would need to be relatively self-contained in order not to prejudice the overall proposals and/or involve extensive, abortive costs. Various options are being investigated with a view to bringing forward a preferred option for consideration by Members.

6. Hythe Interchange and Ticket Office

6.1 Two preferred design options for the interchange have been developed by partners Atkins and these have been brought forward in consultation with the local Member and local groups. These two design options have been developed so as not to prejudice the future possibility of providing a light rail or tram that could travel along the pier and interchange area.

6.2 An architect local to Hythe has been commissioned to come up with initial ideas for a new ticket office - how it could look and the facilities it might provide. Draft plans have now been drawn up with approximate costings.

6.3 A report focusing on the issues surrounding the provision for a new ticket office facility at Hythe, complemented by a re-designed public transport interchange layout, is being produced. The purpose of this report will be to seek funding through the LTP for the development of the ticket office. An allocation has been made in the 2003/04 Capital Programme of £600,000 for the interchange area. The report will be submitted to Members in due course.

7. Hythe Link Road

7.1 As discussed at a previous meeting, this scheme is included as a proposal in the current Local Plan to be funded from developer contributions. This project would be prepared in conjunction with other schemes in Hythe, including the Interchange.

7.2 Investigations are currently being undertaken to determine the viability of and justification for the link road. A report will compare this scheme with alternative needs within Hythe, and determine whether this money could be better spent on something other than the link road itself.

7.3 The report is currently being drafted and when finalised it will be presented to Members.

8. Eastleigh Quality Bus Partnership

8.1 The Eastleigh Quality Bus Partnership (QBP) was signed in November 2001 when the refurbished Eastleigh bus station was officially opened. A number of improvements have already been delivered as part of the QBP, including new, high quality `named' bus stops, publicity and timetables displayed at every stop, raised boarding kerbs and a number of new high quality buses. A very important aspect of the QBP is the implementation of highway measures that will assist the flow of buses through traffic. In order to meet Public Service Agreement (PSA) targets in respect of increasing bus patronage, it is proposed that substantial investment in measures to assist bus operators and passengers should continue. In the draft Transport Capital Programmes for 2004/05 and 2005/06 (item elsewhere on the agenda) six schemes have been identified. However, since the preparation of the Capital Programme in late spring, further work has been undertaken. This work has led to changes in the cost estimates for some schemes and identified that other schemes are not yet ready for implementation. It is suggested that, subject to the views of the Panel, appropriate amendments to the programme be submitted to the Executive Member for Environment. These changes are explained below.

Access to Bus Station (Station Hill/Leigh Road Junction)

8.2 This scheme aims to improve bus access when turning into the bus station from Station Hill. The provision of a mini-roundabout and traffic signals were both assessed for this junction. However, the best solution was felt to be selective vehicle detection (SVD) which would trigger the existing pelican crossing, so allowing the bus to turn right into Leigh Road. Approval has now been sought from the DfT and this scheme will be installed on a trial basis with a view to making it permanent once its performance has been assessed. The draft Capital Programme currently includes £140,000 of LTP funding for 2004/05 but the current proposals can be implemented in 2003/04 for £70,000 using external funds.

Derby Road/Southampton Road Junction

8.3 This junction contains a number of physical constraints, including narrow footpaths, a narrow carriageway and proximity to residential properties. A signalised junction would thus be very costly to implement. However, the option of installing a mini-roundabout is feasible and a design has been

developed which includes white lining, illuminated warning signs and anti-skid surfacing. The draft Capital Programme currently includes £100,000 of LTP funding for 2005/06, but the current proposals can be implemented in 2003/04 for £10,000 using external funds.

Derby Road/Passfield Avenue Junction

8.4 This junction has been assessed and a scheme for a mini-roundabout, new kerbing and new pedestrian crossing points has been designed. One nearby residential property's access will be affected but, following discussion with the owner, it is anticipated that this can be satisfactorily re-aligned. The draft Capital Programme currently includes £100,000 of external funding for 2004/05, but the current proposals can be implemented for £60,000 using LTP funds next financial year.

Nightingale Avenue/Passfield Avenue Junction

8.5 The provision of a mini-roundabout and traffic signals were both assessed for this junction but neither was suitable. The DfT was asked for permission to undertake an SVD trial, however this was rejected on safety grounds. A review of possible alternative measures will therefore be undertaken in due course. The draft Capital Programme currently includes £100,000 of external funding for 2004/05, but no scheme is likely to be ready for implementation until 2005/06.

Riverside Road/Fair Oak Road/ Bishopstoke Road Junction

8.6 A number of improvements to the junction and crossing facilities were investigated as part of the design of the junction. These included a right turn lane from Fair Oak Road into Riverside Road, improving the layout and number of controlled crossings, and moving the position of a bus stop. However, a number of practical difficulties in terms of implementation, including concerns about increased traffic queuing on Bishopstoke Road, means that this junction improvement has been put on hold. The draft Capital Programme currently includes £120,000 of LTP funding and £30,000 of external funding for 2004/05, but no scheme is likely to be ready for implementation until 2005/06.

Improvements to Public Transport Infrastructure

8.7 The draft Capital Programme currently includes £200,000 of LTP funding for 2005/06. However, due to the proposed amendments to both the programme and funding sources indicated above, it is suggested that the public transport infrastructure improvements be brought forward to 2004/05, subject to a satisfactory settlement decision from Central Government in December. Further meetings are also to take place with the operators to discuss other minor improvement works to make best use of both LTP and external funding resources.

9. Central Eastleigh Transport Strategy

Factory Road Boulevard, Eastleigh 2004/05 - £300,000

9.1 The first of a number of schemes expected to emerge from the Central Eastleigh Transport Study, this proposal involves applying a `Green Street' status to Factory Road by re-designing it as a route principally for pedestrians and cyclists. Cars will be permitted for access and servicing, but through traffic will be discouraged. Eastleigh Borough Council has £200,000 of funding for environmental improvements to Factory Road, as well as externally funded money specifically for the installation of closed circuit television in this location. The Borough Council has an allocated feasibility and design resource for this scheme and is progressing the transport and environmental improvements as elements of a larger scheme.

10. Hedge End Area Transport Strategy

Maunsell Way Traffic Calming 2003/04 - £350,000, Externally Funded

10.1 This scheme, which consists of traffic management measures to provide self-enforcement of the 30 mph speed limit, is currently being progressed. A staffed, public exhibition was held in Berrywood Primary School on 23 October, from 4 to 7 pm. The exhibition was also available for viewing the week commencing 20 October in the Shamblehurst Barn Public House. The exhibitions were advertised in the local press and via a letter drop to all residents in the vicinity of the scheme.

Moorgreen Road Safety Improvements 2003/04 - £100,000, Externally Funded

10.2 This scheme looks at the provision of engineering solutions to the St James School Travel Plan and detailed design is currently being progressed. A staffed, public exhibition was held on 25 September at St James Primary School. Through this consultation it is proposed that this scheme be extended to include the top of Moorgreen Road to Burnetts Lane junction. Additional funding for these extra works, which could be funded through external contributions, will be considered through the next review of the Capital Programme.

Hedge End Rail Station Access 2003/04 - £90,000, Externally Funded

10.3 The design of the scheme is now being progressed to improve access to the station for cyclists, pedestrians, the mobility-impaired and bus-users. It is proposed that the latter will be done by altering the existing central island movement to `one-way' and so improving the bus turning facility. It is also proposed to re-locate the bus shelter and discourage parking along Stroudley Way.

Wildern Lane Zebra Crossing 2003/04 - £30,000, Externally Funded

10.4 The detailed design for this scheme is being progressed by the County Council Engineering Consultancy and a project appraisal is being prepared.

11. Eastleigh Decriminalised Parking

11.1 On 5 September 2002 the Borough Council Executive agreed to introduce decriminalised parking from 1 October 2004.

11.2 The project for its implementation is running to its agreed programme timetable and a number of key milestones have been achieved, as follows:

(i) Independent consultants have carried out a review of all Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) and signs and lines through the borough.

(ii) All TROs have been transferred to the Geographical Information System park map system.

(iii) All TROs are currently being reviewed to ascertain the changes required either to advertise or alter signs and lines on the ground.

(iv) A new Information Technology system for vehicle registration recording has gone through the tender evaluation process and will be purchased shortly.

(v) Borough Council Executive approval has been received so that Eastleigh Borough Council can join the national parking adjudication service, the Head of Legal Services can enter into an agency agreement with the County Council and the penalty charge level of £60 can be adopted.

(vi) The Executive's approval also allows the County Council to submit an application to the Secretary of State for special parking and permit parking areas.

12. Chickenhall Lane Link Road

12.1 In April 2003 Southampton Airport Limited, part of the British Airports Authority (BAA), purchased the Northern Development site, an important 48 acre employment site on the north-east border of Southampton Airport, from Gazeley Properties Limited for £5.75 million.

12.2 The land purchase is fundamentally important in relation to the progression of the Chickenhall Lane Link Road (CLLR) major scheme. The scheme development has been delayed by a Legal Challenge made by BAA to the Secretary of State's decision to grant planning permission, and also due to uncertainty regarding the need for a tunnel for the section of the scheme near the end of the runway. The land purchase ensures that a tunnel can now form part of the scheme, which is critical for safety reasons.

12.3 Further to the land sale BAA has stated that it is keen to work with both the County Council and Eastleigh Borough Council to progress the scheme as soon as possible. BAA is currently reassessing previous design work for the section of the scheme south of the existing Chickenhall Lane. In addition, preliminary design work for Chickenhall Lane and onto Bishopstoke Road has commenced.

12.4 Following initial discussions, it is now expected that the CLLR will be promoted through a partnership between the County Council, BAA and Eastleigh Borough Council. In this way a significant new section of the local highway network can be created, with a financial contribution from BAA, which gains access to its development site and potential commercial development for Eastleigh Borough Council. The details of this partnership are now being developed, and it is hoped that it will lead to a major transportation scheme bid to the DfT within the next three to five years.

13. Hound Road Cycleway

13.1 The Hound Road cycleway is included in the Hamble School Safer Routes to School plan and the Hamble Area Transport Strategy. A total of £125,000 has been allocated, with £15,000 external funding towards design work and £110,00 from Eastleigh Borough Council for implementation of the scheme.

14. Safer Routes to School Programme 2003/04

Eastleigh Borough Council

14.1 Fryern Junior School School Travel Plan at level 3 and cycle shelters to be provided. Project Appraisal to be approved.

14.2 Hiltingbury Infant and Junior Schools School Travel Plan at level 3. Cycle shelters to be provided and School Safety Zone on Hiltingbury Road. (Project Appraisal approved.)

14.3 Merdon Junior School School Travel plan at level 3. Cycle shelters to be provided (to be jointly funded by school). Project Appraisal to be approved.

14.4 St James Primary School School Travel Plan at level 3. Pedestrian entrance improvements to school entrance. Project Appraisal to be approved.

14.5 Thornden School School Travel Plan at level 3. Additional signage and Winchester Road speed reduction and cycle route feasibility. Project Appraisal to be approved.

14.6 Wildern School School Travel Plan at level 3. Trial of new pedestrian access to school ground abandoned. Awaiting planning permission for permanent scheme before new bid for funding made by Eastleigh Borough Council.

14.7 Hamble School level 3 School Travel Plan received. Bus shelter improvements implemented (2002/03 scheme). Hound Road cycle route to be progressed as discussed above.

14.8 Bursledon Infant and Junior Schools level 3 School Travel Plan received. School Safety Zone implemented (2002/03 scheme). Feasibility study for footpath works now complete, awaiting land ownership issues to be resolved.

15. Test Valley Borough Council

15.1 Halterworth and Mountbatten Schools, Romsey - the 2002/03 scheme has been carried over from the SWHTS programme. School Travel Plan at level 1. Consultation has been undertaken, with comments received from parents, governors and residents being considered at the present time.

16. New Forest District Council

16.1 Hounsdown School level 3 School Travel Plan received, scheme awaiting design in consultation with the school.

16.2 Lydlynch Infants School, Totton - a 2002/03 scheme. Level 3 School Travel Plan received, scheme has been designed and will be finalised with the school shortly. To include new safety barrier along school frontage and proposals for alterations at the turning head.

16.3 Netley Marsh CE Infant School - a 2002/03 scheme. Level 3 School Travel plan received and works on site are now progressing. Scheme includes various safety and speed reduction measures which are being monitored.

16.4 Orchard Infant and Junior Schools carried over from 2002/03. Awaiting commitment to School Travel Plan before progressing.

Recommendations

1. That the position of the schemes within the Capital Programme be noted.

2. That work continue on developing the overall package of transport proposals for Totton Town Centre, which would enable it to be submitted as a major scheme bid to Central Government.

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