Archived decisions

FLEET TOWN CENTRE IMPROVEMENTS

In order to enhance the existing character of Fleet Town Centre, a package of improvements have been proposed to improve traffic movement, road safety and access around the town centre and thus improve its overall environment and vitality as Hart's principal urban centre. The proposals have been prepared in co-operation with Hart District Council. There was broad public support for the proposals as a result of a public consultation exercise in November-December 2001 and subsequently a few changes were made to reflect various concerns raised.

The principal improvements of the scheme will include carriageway reconstruction/strengthening, new granite kerbing and footway repaving. Raised carriageway speed controlling features (tables) will be introduced at a number of puffin crossings, pedestrian refuges will be improved and an additional bus stop will be implemented. Restricted general short-term parking facilities will help to reduce vehicle/pedestrian conflict, and existing bays will be retained as loading bays and disabled parking. The necessary Traffic Regulation Orders will be advertised in due course. Some temporary road closure orders will be required to facilitate some of the carriageway reconstruction. Planning permission is also being sought for a new service road to provide rear access for several businesses in Fleet Road and will allow the provision of 20 new short-term parking spaces to compensate for those lost on Fleet Road.

It is proposed that the scheme be monitored to assess measurable and perceived benefits or otherwise, comprising surveys designed to measure public and retailer satisfaction with the scheme, a set of traffic counts to include HGV and cycle movements on Fleet Road and other local routes, and bus journey times also along Fleet Road. Additionally, it is proposed that part of the funding from development contributions be used for the deployment of a part-time travel plan co-ordinator to promote the development of sustainable travel initiatives and to set up a commuter forum in the Fleet area, this proposal being subject to the agreement and support of Hart District Council.

In support of these proposals, a decision was taken on 12 October 2004 to recommend to the Executive Member for Policy and Resources, the approval of a Project Appraisal. This will be subject to approval of the 2005/06 capital programme in February 2005 and, where the scheme involves the acquisition and/or dedication of land, the Director of Property Business and Regulatory Services will be authorised to settle suitable terms. The decision taken supports Aims 2 and 4 of the Corporate Strategy (Stewardship of the environment and Building strong and safe communities) by developing the distinctiveness and quality of Fleet Road, and providing a safer community facility in Fleet Town Centre.