CABINET/LEADER

PART II

A3 PORTSMOUTH-WATERLOOVILLE-HORNDEAN PUBLIC TRANSPORT PRIORITY CORRIDOR PROJECT PROGRESS REPORT: SECTIONS 4 AND 5, WATERLOOVILLE TO HORNDEAN - PROJECT APPRAISAL

On 4 November 2005 the Executive Member for Policy and Resources approved a project appraisal for Sections 4 and 5 of the A3 Bus Priority Corridor; at an estimated cost of £11.936 million; and improvements to provide a footway/cycleway on the western side of the A3 London Road/Portsmouth Road.

The development represents the next phase in a £25m scheme funded by the Government, with the aim of providing fast, reliable and efficient bus services along the A3 Clanfield-Horndean-Cowplain-Waterlooville Corridor and into Portsmouth, with the aim of encouraging reduced car usage and congestion. The full benefits will emerge as the scheme develops, and results will be monitored with suitable reports back to local Councillors and the public. The Director of Environment has confirmed that it will be possible to alter the design layout later if serious practical or operational problems emerge in the light of experience.

In light of comments made at the Buildings, Land and Procurement Panel about the need for the County Council to do more to engage with the public, explain to them the reasons for and benefits derived from such major schemes, it was also approved that a report be provided reviewing public consultation and feedback of results to the public with respect to major schemes, including monitoring of scheme objectives and targets to gauge how well these have been achieved.

This decision supports Aims 1, 2 and 4 (Maximising Life Opportunities, Stewardship of the Environment, and Building Strong and Safe Communities) of the Corporate Strategy by creating the standard and quality of public transport facilities and accessibility along this major transport corridor that will stimulate greater use and attract new users who would otherwise use their cars.