Contact: Martin Wiltshire, tel: 857816 email: [email protected]

1. Summary

1.1 The following decision is sought:

That the Project Approval for the installation of a Pegasus signal controlled crossing on the A326 Hythe Bypass north of the Heath roundabout, at an estimated cost of £108,000, as part of the county-wide 2006/07 Pedestrian Crossing Programme, be approved.

2. Reason

2.1 This Pegasus crossing is expected to provide a safe crossing point to assist pedestrians and equestrians to cross the A326 which separates the residential area of Dibden Purlieu from the open Forest.

3. Other Options Considered and Rejected

3.1 To assist crossing movements between residential areas and the open Forest, several measures have been investigated, including pedestrian refuges, a Puffin crossing, a subway and footway over-bridge as requested by local residents. These were found to be inappropriate in the circumstances and it is therefore considered that the proposed Pegasus crossing is the only suitable option.

3.2 Consideration has also been given to a Puffin crossing which would not specifically meet the needs of local equestrians. The additional cost to upgrade the facility from a Puffin to a Pegasus crossing is considered to be justified in view of the mixed demand from both pedestrians and equestrians at this particular location.

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

5. Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee - None.

6. Reason(s) for the Matter being dealt with if Urgent - None.

Approved by: Date:

Councillor M J Kendal

Executive Member for Environment

1025Decn/MW