Archived decisions

Contact: John Buckett, ext 6599 email: [email protected]

1. Summary

1.1 The report puts forward programmes for use of the allocations for Rail Stations and Interchanges, Public Transport Information and Air Quality within the 2006/07 Integrated Transport Capital Programme.

2. Rail Stations and Interchanges (£70,000 allocation)

2.1 Easy interchange at rail stations and high quality passenger facilities are amongst the most important characteristics of an integrated transport network. Significant barriers to use include a lack of understandable, relevant information and a lack of basic shelter from inclement weather. The measures included in this programme address these barriers.

2.2 This investment will improve the quality and experience of using rail services. Experience of previous investment has indicated that such measures help to promote the use of this sustainable modes of transport. This is borne out by the increasing number of people using the Hampshire rail network. The proposals are consistent with the County Council's policies on increasing travel choice, addressing social exclusion and enhancing the local environment.

2.3 This programme has been jointly developed with South West Trains, and all the improvements will be funded on a 50/50 basis by the County Council and South West Trains. The details of the 2006/07 programme are set out in the attached appendix.

2.4 The 2006/07 programme will consist of:

(i) new anti-vandal passenger waiting shelters on station platforms;

(ii) improvements to bus interchange facilities at Hedge End station forecourt; and

(iii) Welcome Boards at station entrances which promote the facilities available such as nearby bus stops, cycle parking facilities, taxis, ticket office hours, closed circuit television coverage, disabled access, toilets and telephones.

3. Passenger Transport Information (£180,000 allocation)

3.1 This funding covers the continuing development within the county of the national `one-stop shop' for public transport information, known as `Traveline'.

3.2 The regional call centre receives approximately 10,000 enquiries per week. The costs of the calls are met by the transport operators.

3.3 The Traveline service forms an important part of the County Council's Local Transport Plan and is central to the Council's work on improving the Best Value Performance Indicator 103 score (satisfaction with local public transport information).

4. Air Quality 2006/07 (£50,000)

4.1 It is proposed to use this allocation as follows:

Text Messaging Information Service - £15,000

4.2 Funding is required to set up and operate a pilot service through 2006/07 and 2007/08.The aim of this service is to provide information on forecast air quality to registered users. The aim is to raise awareness of air quality issues and the impact of travel on poor air quality. It would offer users information for them to consider when and where they travel. Such information can also be particularly useful for those suffering with respiratory problems such as asthma.

Information for Schools and Mobile Air Quality Monitoring - £15,000

4.3 There are two aims of this pilot scheme; to raise awareness of air quality and transport issues in schools and to provide a mobile unit that can be transported to various locations around the county and allow schools to use the monitoring unit for the gathering of data on this topic. This is intended to link into the curriculum and provide some practical data that can help to educate school children in air quality issues.

Totton Low Cost Measures - £5,000

4.4 In advance of the longer term scheme identified in the capital programme for 2009/10 it is proposed to introduce a low-cost signing scheme. This would involve placing signs at the approach to the Totton Level Crossing, where the Air Quality Management Area is requesting drivers to turn off their engines. This will be accompanied by an awareness raising and marketing campaign.

Others - £15,000

4.5 In addition the following measures are being developed:

(i) the development of a web-site relating to air quality issues; and

(ii) taking forward some aspects of the Miracles programme.

5. Impact Assessments

5.1 These programmes are expected to have a positive impact for users and potential users of public transport by improving facilities and information. Improved information on air quality and actions to improve it will contribute to awareness raising and reducing the danger to health from poor air quality.

Recommendation

That the proposed sub-programmes for Rail Stations and Interchanges, Public Transport Information and Air Quality be approved.

949Rpt/JWB

APPENDIX

Rail Stations and Interchanges Investment Programme 2006/07