Minutes:
The Environment Directorate's "dashboard" performance for the second quarter of 2014/15 was presented.
In noting the dashboard members made the following points:
St Mark's Place – It was confirmed that work on the carriageway had now been completed and the local member wished to place on record his appreciation for a job well done.
Cycling within Preston – There was some discussion about how best to encourage safe cycling. It was acknowledged that the Guild Wheel had generated an upsurge in the amount of cycling in the area, however, there appeared to also be an increase in cyclists using footpaths and causing a hazard to pedestrians
There was anecdotal evidence that new signage had improved the attitude of cyclists toward pedestrians on the stretch of Guild Wheel around Broadgate and The Boulevard, where there had previously been similar concerns.
It was felt that there needed to be proper access to distinct cycle lanes separate from roads.
There was some frustration that no progress had been made in providing access from Avenham Park via the Preston Railway Station Cycle Link despite previous assurances that it would be completed. It was considered important to move forward and have a timescale for completion. Mark Wardale undertook to pursue this.
Regarding the Guild Wheel, it was understood that the original plan had included 'spokes' from the circuit to provide cycle access into the city – confirmation and further detail was sought. Mark Wardale undertook to look into this.
It was suggested that cycle storage provision was generally poor and that many dedicated cycleways were not maintained to the high standard of the Guild Wheel, which discouraged cyclists from using them.
It was suggested that more should be done to publicise all the activity and initiatives being undertaken to promote cycling in Preston.
Fishergate Central Gateway – It was reported that the bollards at the junction of Fishergate and Corporation Street were to be illuminated.
The improvement works were welcomed and it was felt important not to spoil the spacious look of Fishergate by installing too much street furniture. The use of A boards by some businesses was problematic and it was confirmed that the Public Realm manager was working with local businesses to discourage their use. It was reported that Preston City Council's Scrutiny Committee was currently investigating this issue. It was agreed that clear advice was required setting out the rules regarding A boards and the enforcement rights of the local authority.
City Deal Phase Two - There was a request for members to see detailed plans with an outline schedule of works. Mark Wardale undertook to provide these.
Road and Street Maintenance – One member reported a significant rut in Lancaster Road outside the Town Hall (by the second bus stop No. 23) and asked that it be examined as soon as possible.
Trading Standards – There was some concern about the number of vehicles parked on the road side and advertised for sale. Mark Wardale agreed to check whether such practice was legal.