Archived decisions

Contact: Simon Found, ext 6593 email: [email protected]

1. Summary

1.1 The following decision is sought:

That the Project Appraisal for the first phase of traffic and environmental improvements at Rumbridge Street, Totton, at an estimated cost of £340,000, be approved.

1.2 Further project appraisals for the other phases of this scheme will be submitted for approval later this financial year. The cost of the whole scheme when completed will be in the region of £1 million.

2. Reason

2.1 To implement the first phase of a traffic and environmental improvement scheme as part of an ongoing regeneration programme. This phase of the programme will regenerate the Old Town, which is made up of residential properties and businesses south of the main shopping area. This project is funded through the Regeneration of Older Urban Areas (ROUA) programme and the current Local Transport Plan (LTP). The ROUA contribution is drawn from the budget allocation in the 2001/03 and 2003/05 programmes approved on 11 September 2000 and 23 July 2003.

2.2 The measures proposed will improve the general environment of the area by making it more pedestrian-friendly and discourage rat-running through traffic from using this road in its attempt to avoid the current congestion on the adjacent A35 Totton By Pass. The measures will improve the economic vitality of this part of Totton Town Centre which has been in decline for several years.

2.3 Hampshire County Council's ROUA programme is managed to implement landmark projects to raise the quality of life of all who live, work and visit urban areas. All projects are designed to demonstrate the benefits of making best use of land and property; high quality design; long life and sustainable solutions and materials; and appropriateness to the local sense of place.

2.4 This decision supports Aim 2 (Stewardship of the environment) of the Corporate Strategy by improving the environment for residents, businesses and their customers; Aim 3 (Achieving economic prosperity) by improving the economic prosperity for local businesses by reducing the effects of traffic along this road through traffic management measures and using materials that improve the general appearance of the street scene, and Aim 4 (Building strong and safe communities) by making the area safer.

3. Other Options Considered and Rejected

3.1 Alternative design approaches have been considered. The current scheme is consistent with the adopted urban design framework and transport strategy for the area, is considered to enhance the character of the area, and represents the most appropriate technical solution. No other options were considered to meet the scheme objectives or the principles of the ROUA programme.

4. Conflicts of Interest Declared by the Decision Maker or Other Executive Member Consulted - None.

5. Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee - Not applicable.

6. Reason(s) for the Matter being dealt with if Urgent - Not applicable.

Approved by: Date:

Councillor J K Glen