Contents:

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. Glasgow Underline Avenues Project, Sauchiehall Street to St George’s Cross, closes 09 December
2. Glasgow Secure Cycle Parking Survey, closes 17 December
3. Glasgow City Centre Traffic Management Order Bus Priority, closes 21 December
4. The Scottish Parliament, Restricted Roads (20 mph Speed Limit) Bill Survey, closes 28 January 2019
5. **NEW** East Dunbartonshire Council, Local Development Plan, closing 11 February 2019
6. Glasgow, North Toryglen Green Space and Active Travel Design Proposals, ongoing

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Byres Road Cycle Design Workshop
2. Scottish Government Cross Party Group on Cycling, Walking and Buses
3. Connecting Woodside Project Update, 04 December update
4. Recent consultations as seen from the December GoBike ride

Section 1: Current Consultations, in date order for responses

1.1 Glasgow Underline Avenues Project, Sauchiehall Street to St George’s Cross, closes 09 December

This exciting project funded by the City Deal, will transform the route from Sauchiehall Street along Cambridge Street, past Cowcaddens Subway Station, and under the M8 to St George’s Cross. We had details in the last Digest 22 and all the details are also here on the Glasgow City Council website. Do please submit your support. It’s particularly important that we support active travel measures such as this just now. You will hopefully have seen reports last week, including the GoBike blog on the Glasgow Connectivity Commission Report and we need to add as much of our collective weight to counter those who may be gearing up to oppose active travel measures, despite the benefits these changes will bring to congestion, pollution and safety. We all need to voice our ambition for a healthy, vibrant people-focused city loud and clear. GoBike’s co-convenor Iona, has emailed this message of support, Convenor message of support 231118 to the team at Civic Engineers, in addition to our individual survey responses. The survey is very short so please do get those fingers on the keys to respond. It closes on Sunday.

1.2 Glasgow Secure Cycle Parking (for Residents) Survey, closes Monday 17 December

Glasgow City Council is now consulting on the provision of secure cycle parking for residents. The type shown here is what is proposed for tenements, with larger stores for tower blocks. The survey is easy to complete, and even if you personally don’t have the need for such a store, you can still add your support to the general principle of the storage being provided. It is not compulsory to suggest any location on the map at the end of the survey.

1.3 Glasgow City Centre Traffic Management Order Bus Priority, ie Oswald Street and Union Street Bus Gates, closes Friday 21 December.

We put all the details of this in Digest 22, Item 1.5. The City Council documents are here:  CCTROv24Advert TS-5199-M-000-P-001A_TRO CCTRO(v24) Report Oct2018  CCTRO(v24)_SOR.  GoBike supports the general principle of what is proposed but we do have concerns that no cycle provision is included, particularly for Union Street, and the opportunity to improve the contraflow cycle lane on West Nile Street has not been taken. These concerns are contained in our letter to the City Council, GoBike City Centre Bus Priority TRO qualified support 201118 and we hope you will write in along similar lines.

1.4 The Scottish Parliament, Restricted Roads (20 mph Speed Limit) Bill Survey, closes 28 January

This was another new item, 1.6 in Digest 22 two weeks ago, and we have since been in communication with the original author of this proposal, Mark Ruskell MSP, pictured above. Here’s the text of his email to the GoBike convenor, dated 18 November:

“Dear Convenor,

Last year I launched the consultation on my Safer Streets Bill. The bill has now been formally introduced to Parliament as the Restricted Roads (20mph Limit) (Scotland) Bill. Full details here http://www.parliament.scot/parliamentarybusiness/Bills/109191.aspx

Go Bike! kindly responded to the original consultation outlining your support for the proposal. It really helped us get to the point we are now and for the first time since 1936, we are on the cusp of switching to a safer speed limit on streets where we live, work and play.

The bill has now moved to the Rural Economy and Connectivity Committee for scrutiny and they have launched their own fresh consultation.

This stage of the process is crucially important in ensuring the bill receives the necessary amount of support to allow it to move forward in the Scottish Parliament. MSPs need to understand why the change to a 20 mph default is now needed.

If you could engage in the consultation I would be most grateful: http://www.parliament.scot/parliamentarybusiness/CurrentCommittees/109932.aspx

Any queries then please do get in touch. Thank you for helping us make our roads safer, cleaner and healthier.

Kind Regards,

Mark

Mark Ruskell MSP – Mid-Scotland & Fife Region, Scottish Green Party”

GoBike wrote this letter to him on 30 November GoBike 20mph support 301118  and Mark replied that same evening with this response:

“Hi Tricia,

It’s a real boost to know the bill has Go Bike’s active support, thanks!

In terms of further support, we are encouraging individuals and groups to share their experiences with members of the committee directly as their constituents by email or ideally face to face at a surgery.

John Mason (Shettleston) is the only Strathclyde MSP on the committee.

Additionally at some point the Scottish Government Cabinet will make a decision about whether to support the Bill or not and you have two pivotal members of the cabinet in Glasgow worth engaging with..

Nicola Sturgeon- Southside

Humza Yousaf- Pollok

I have also attached a short briefing which has a very supportive quote from council leader Susan Aitken about the bill which may be useful for engaging with SNP MSPs.

Many thanks and keep in touch!

Mark”

The short briefing Mark mentions is here: SaferStreetsMSPbrief and you can find details of the Rural Economy and Connectivity Committee here. Richard Lyle, MSP for Uddingston & Bellshill,  is also a member as is Jamie Greene, Regional MSP for the West of Scotland.

So a whole set of challenges for us all. The easy bit is responding to the survey if you haven’t done so already, but a wee bit more effort is called for if you live in Glasgow Shettleston, Uddingston & Bellshill or the West of Scotland. Mark has asked that you contact your MSP’s who are on the Committee. The third challenge is to contact your local MSP(s) who are Cabinet Members, Nicola Sturgeon (Glasgow Southside), Humza Yousaf (Glasgow Region), Derek Mackay (Renfrewshire North & West) or Aileen Campbell (Clydesdale). Use this tool to find out who your local MSP and from that their contact details, and surgery times and locations are easy to find from the comfort of your own sofa, using your preferred search engine.

1.5 East Dunbartonshire Council, Local Development Plan, closing 11 February 2018

In our Consultation Extra last week we copied you information from East Dunbartonshire Council about the Local Development Plan drop-in information sessions, starting TODAY.

Just in yesterday we now have the latest LDP Newsletter 48 – Dec 2018 which, we are told: “contains important information about our new Local Development Plan (LDP2) and Local Transport Strategy, including details of upcoming public engagement sessions & drop-in events.”

Here’s the list of drop-in consultation events:

• Kirkintilloch Leisure Centre Tuesday 4 December  3pm-7pm
• Leisuredrome, Bishopbriggs  Thursday 6 December  3pm-7pm
• Caldwell Halls, Torrance  Thursday 13 December  2.30pm-5.30pm
• Fraser Centre, Milngavie | Monday 17 December  3pm-7pm
• Lennoxtown Hub  Monday 7 January  3pm-7pm
• Lenzie Union Church Hall Tuesday 8 January  3pm-6pm
• Twechar Healthy Living and Enterprise Centre Tuesday 15 January  Noon-3pm
• Bearsden Hub  Monday 21 January  3pm-7pm

“The East Dunbartonshire Local Transport Strategy is being refreshed and the first stage of this is the Transport Options Report. The Transport Options Report sets out preferred and alternative options for active travel, public transport, roads and parking. The report sets out options for the whole area and options specific to individual community areas.”

Details of the consultation, which runs until 11 February, are available from the Council website: https://www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk/council/consultations 

In addition to the drop-in consultation sessions, there is a series of workshops being held, details on the website here. You do have to book for these.

Do get involved if you live,  work, or travel regularly in East Dunbartonshire.

1.6 Glasgow, North Toryglen Green Space and Active Travel Proposals, no current closing date

Two weeks ago in Digest 22 item 1.7, we told you about the information sessions being held on 21 November by Urban Roots. They have exciting proposals for encouraging active travel in North Toryglen, with the potential for a green link from park to park across the south side of Glasgow. There’s information, including the outline designs here and there is an on-line form for your comments here. There is no closing date as yet but if you keep an eye on the website they will be adding more information sessions for 2019.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

Nothing new that we know about, perhaps more in the New Year which is fast approaching.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Byres Road Cycle Design Workshop, 20 December

GoBike, Space4PeopleByresRoad and Sustrans have been invited by Glasgow City Council to send two people along to a design session on 20 December. We think the workshop is to do with the design for accommodating cycle traffic on Byres Road and not that an actual bike will be designed, but there will be clarification in the first Digest of 2019, due out on 08 January.

3.2 Scottish Government Cross Party Group on Cycling, Walking and Buses, 28 November

GoBike’ new co-convenor, John Donnelly, attended the Cross Party Group on Cycling, Walking and Buses at the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday the 28th November.  This was also the first anniversary of the new group being formed so the AGM also took place.  A presentation on the Transport Bill currently going through Parliament was provided by officers from Transport Scotland who are responsible for drafting the Bill. (Note: GoBike last alerted you to take action on this Bill in Digest 18 Item 1.2, the Transport Bill Survey and we had earlier in Digest 15, Item 3.1 asked you to take action in response to Living Streets’ call to write to your MSP about pavement parking.) A Commentary on the Evidence Sessions was provided by Transform Scotland.  Overall it was agreed that the The biggest fundamental problem is the increase in journeys and therefore traffic, however there were no demand management measures in the Bill.   It was highlighted that the best mechanism to get any changes to the bill was to communicate to key MSPs, in particular those in each party with responsibility for the Transport Bill and your local MSP if different.  The next meeting will take place in February and will discuss the next steps of the Active Travel Task Force. 

3.3 Connecting Woodside Project Update, out today

Hot off the press, today, 04 December is the latest Connecting Woodside Project Update with lots of positive news about the area. Many of us attended the consultation events and responded to the proposals so it’s good to see that there is progress

3.4 Recent consultations as seen from the December GoBike ride

The GoBike ride of Sunday 02 December took us along the Clyde, criss-crossing over the river at every bridge open to cycle traffic, from the Glasgow Science Centre to the industrial areas of Cambuslang. Along the way we went past the site of many a consultation. We’ve brought you a run down of what we passed.

3.4.1 The Clyde Arc/Squinty/Finnieston Bridge

This is the bridge, originally designed as part of the Fastlink Bus Scheme, the north end designed for traffic coming from or going to the city centre, the south end designed for traffic going towards Govan, that has now been opened up to all traffic and all directions. The latest change was one that GoBike opposed. It is a two year trial that will allow taxis into the two lanes on the left of the photo, to share with bikes and buses. You may see the details of our correspondence with Glasgow City Council in Digest 14, the final item, 3.3.

3.4.2 Clyde Place and Buchanan Wharf

We arrived at Clyde Place after cycling over the Tradeston/Squiggly Bridge, which is a core path, so open to cycle traffic. GoBike responded to the Traffic Regulation Order for Clyde Place with support for the closure of Clyde Place to motor traffic. We did however express great disappointment at the failure to introduce contraflow cycling on Bridge Street to allow people cycling from Eglinton Street direct access to the city centre. Here’s the letter we sent back in May: GoBike Tradeston Clyde Place comment and partial objection letter 010518

Work is now proceeding at Buchanan Wharf, just to the right of the photo, where developers are building new offices for Barclays Bank. One of the conditions, when taking over the land from Glasgow City Council, was that Clyde Place be closed to motor vehicles. GoBike responded to the Planning Application, see Digest 14, Item 1.2 and  was invited in to meet the developers in August. There’s a report of that meeting in Digest 17, Item 3.1

GoBike members Derek and Eachann have now alerted us to this visualisation of the site:

Looking carefully at the top left hand corner, just below the lighter paving, there seems to be a row of bollards across the South West City Way (note that with the proposals for the site, the diagonal crossing at the traffic lights is removed, replaced by this softer crossing). GoBike has queried this with the developer in this email sent a few days ago:

“I see that work is going on at Buchanan  Wharf and I hope it is proceeding well.

You will remember that when we met 3 months ago, 23 August, I expressed concern about the change in surface where the South West City Way crosses from the east side of West Street across to join the exisiting route? Setts are not the best surface for cycling and we would prefer the current smooth surface, although we do understand that you wish to identify the pedestrian and the cycle routes. However, concern has now been expressed about the attached picture that appears to show bollards at this location, and in the cycle lanes.

Could you please confirm whether bollards are, in fact, proposed and if so the type and separation? Good practice dictates that bollards are placed at 1.5m separation to allow disabled people to cycle and it  does look as if these are closer than that. You may be aware that there is a very successful cycle organisation, Free Wheel North based at Glasgow Green who organise led rides, the majority of them using the cycle routes along the Clyde. It would be very disappointing if not only ablebodied people were delayed by bollards but disabled people were prevented from cycling the South West City Way by bollards blocking the way to their larger-than-standard cycles.

I look forward to hearing from you,”

3.4.3 Glasgow City Deal Quay Wall

This was reported in our Digest 19 Item 3.4 and while not a consultation, this news from Glasgow City Council that the quay wall along the Clyde is to be repaired and upgraded see:  https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=23230 supports the work at Buchanan Wharf and elsewhere.

3.4.4 Glasgow Bridge

Our route took us north over George V Bridge and then back to the south over Glasgow, or Jamaica Bridge. You might have noticed that this bridge has a cycle lane separated by “orcas” or similar on the east side. There was no consultation about this as far as we know, but it’s very unfortunate that it has not been continued south into Bridge Street (see our letter about the Tradeston Clyde Place TRO in 3.2.2 above) or north into Jamaica Street and Union Street (see our letter about City Centre Bus Priority in 1.3 above)

3.4.5 Polmadie Bridge

As we made our way east, we cycled over the recently reconstructed and reopened Polmadie Bridge. The old bridge had been deemed unsafe, but there were lots of concern when it was demolished that the link from the east end of Glasgow Green to Oatlands would be lost. It was good to see the bridge being rebuilt earlier this year – it’s now technically the newest bridge over the Clyde, and it forms a great active travel link for all the people in the new properties to the south of the Clyde here.

3.4.6 Cuningar Loop Bridge

Heading on further east, the ride went through the Athletes Village in Dalmarnock, and over the bridge into Cuningar Loop. The connections to this excellent park area are a big disappointment to those of us who want joined up active travel routes. Despite requests, there is no link from the new bridge to the riverside walk/cycle way, and much of the village is separated from the riverside by fencing, thus discouraging active travel for the people who have moved to live here. We feel that this is an opportunity lost, but one that could still be remedied.

Before we set off today, our ride leader, Andy Preece, was presented with a GoBike award recognising the excellent work he has done, and continues to do, for us all. During the “dark days” when GoBike had very few members, Andy was the main person who kept the organisation going, managing committee meetings and AGMs, responding to consultations, and all the time using his encyclopaedic knowledge of Glasgow and surrounding areas to develop and lead fascinating rides to look at the conditions for cycling. If you join a GoBike ride (all info regularly updated here) you can guarantee that you will see something you had never seen before and go somewhere you have never been before. Well done Andy!

That’s it for now, but we’ll be back in two weeks’ time with more consultation news for you.

Many thanks to Iona for keeping you up-to-date so well while I was off on a big tour of Kenya – four weeks without getting on a bike – and what news there was. A massive rethink on Byres Road! Didn’t we all do well! That’s the power of lots of us letting people know our views, so please keep writing and answering those surveys. Let’s hope Byres Road does become as peaceful as this earlier publicity picture suggests, but with those all important segregated cycle lanes.

Contents:

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. Glasgow, East City Way, closes TOMORROW, 10 October
2. **NEW** Glasgow, Albert Drive Traffic Calming, closes 18 October
3. **NEW** South West Scotland Transport Study, closes 16 November
4. UK Government, Department of Transport, Open Consultation, New Cycling Offences, Causing Death or Serious Injury while Cycling, closes 05 November plus CyclingUK call to action

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. East Renfrewshire

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Byres Road
2. Hyndland, Hughenden and Dowanhill West Parking Controls
3. Clyde Place, Buchanan Wharf
4. City Deal Quay Wall
5. Scotstounhill – Jordanhill Parking Changes
6. Mosspark Cardonald Parking Changes
7. UK Road Safety Management Capacity Review, information from Brake, the Road Safety Charity
8. London Road/Charlotte Street Junction
9. Battlefield Design Working Group
10. Glasgow North East Travel Routes
11. Finnieston/Clyde Arc/Squinty Bridge, Temporary TRO to allow taxis
12. George Square, Glasgow, today’s update.
13. GoBike Ride, Govan, Paisley and Jura Street

Section 1: Current Consultations, in date order for responses

A bit of a lull on new consultations following a busy few weeks, but please make sure you respond to the ones of interest to you.

1.1  Glasgow, East City Way, closes TOMORROW, 10 October

We hope you managed to get along to the consultation event but if not, here’s a repeat of the consultation extra that came out last week:

The East City Way will ultimately be a 7km fully bidirectional segregated cycle lane running from Mount Vernon past Parkhead and the Chris Hoy Velodrome up to the existing lane on London Road. We have been really pleased to see more safe segregated cycle lanes being proposed for Glasgow, and especially glad to see this now happening in the under provided for area of the east end. Plans for segregated cycle lanes always need our support and so if you have a couple of minutes, please fill out a really quick response here.

The survey is very simple with only around four check boxes asking whether you are in favour of certain aspects of the plans. We have answered yes to all of those and have added that we feel that if traffic calming is added, that it should be in conjunction with making the area a 20 mph zone with associated enforcement.

We have also sent in this letter of support which also makes a couple of suggestions on how the current Mount Vernon junction might be improved for cycles crossing. We have also reiterated that while we would never object to bidirectional cycle lanes, and appreciate that gathering support for them is easier, we hope that uni-directional lanes are always considered as the first, safest, and best quality option.

Do please answer the quick survey!

1.2 **NEW** Glasgow, Albert Drive Traffic Calming, closes 18 October

We were sent this message on 27 September from the City Council:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF ANDY WADDELL, HEAD OF INFRASTRUCTURE AND ENVIRONMENT, LAND AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

 Dear Sir / Madam

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (ALBERT DRIVE), TRAFFIC CALMING SCHEME 2018

The Council propose to consider the introduction of the above named Traffic Calming Scheme and I wish to establish the views of your organisation.

Background to the proposed Scheme

The scheme is aimed at improving road safety by reducing vehicle speeds.

Roads affected by the proposed Scheme

The list of roads affected by these proposals are:-

ALBERT DRIVE

Details of the proposed Scheme

The proposed Scheme (as depicted on the attached plan) will comprise of:-

• 7 sets of 4.5m long, 75mm high speed tables

Please provide any comments you wish to make on these proposals within 21 days.

In the meantime, should you require any further information or clarification on any points arising from the proposals, do not hesitate to contact my assistant Sandy Carle on 0141 287 8205.

Should the Council proceed with these proposals; I will write to you again and confirm this.

Yours faithfully

Andy Waddell

Head of Infrastructure and Environment, Land and Environmental Services”

The plan referred to is here: Pollokshields Traffic Calming plan

A local GoBike member has told us that the measures have been proposed to deter “boy racers”. In the past when boy racers were disturbing a central area of the city, it was proposed to break the circuit they drove in, but we are not aware of any such measure being proposed here. Could Albert Drive to the west of Shields Road be stopped up to cars but with access maintained for bikes? Could the wide road conducive to speeding be narrowed by installing bike lanes using orca-type separators or planters on each side of the road? That would stop the footway parking too, and parking bays on the outside of the bike lanes would further narrow the road. This western part of Albert Drive has a 30mph speed limit, which would become 20mph if Mark Ruskell’s 20mph bill is approved in the Scottish Parliament.

We have been made aware that a Safe Streets Pollokshields traffic project has had funding agreed for the area, and we would strongly support a longer term plan approach with the proposed holistic traffic calming plan, which would be more cost effective than putting in expensive speed tables now, and looking at the wider area later. In fact, we were actually told when we called the council department with our “cheap cycle lanes to narrow the street” suggestion, that there isn’t money to install orcas or planters. So why has the response been to install speed tables (even with a 0.5m gap at each side for a standard bicycle) rather than making Albert Drive active travel friendly? Our letter proposing a rethink is here: GoBike Albert Drive speed tables comments letter 091018

STOP PRESS: an improvement to the Traffic Calming plan.

On Friday Tricia spoke to the engineer who had designed the traffic calming layout and, although the above plan does not show it well, he had allowed a 0.5m gap near the kerbs to allow bikes to bypass the speed tables. Further to the discussion a new drawing has been issued to us today, Albert Drive TC amended detail and this gap has now been widened to 1.2m, which will allow not just a standard bike but cargo bikes and tricycles to avoid the speed tables. This is a big improvement, although we would still wish to see cycle lanes ….

1.3 **NEW** South West Scotland Transport Study, closes 16 November

This is a survey with a difference; it’s about travel connections in the south west and it is specifically aimed at people who live and work there. However, I’ve responded on a personal level on the grounds that this is an area that’s difficult to get to by public transport, if you wish to then tour by bike. Until there is a better train service or provision of buses with space for bikes, then this area is missing a significant tourist market. You might wish to respond too.

1.4 UK Government, Department of Transport, Open Consultation, New Cycling Offences, Causing Death or Serious Injury while Cycling, closes 05 November plus CyclingUK call to action

We introduced this in Digest17 item 1.8. Please do respond to this but also please look at the Cycling UK request to write to your MP. We need a full review of all road transport offences, rather than a kneejerk response on cycling only.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

2.1 East Renfrewshire

We are hopeful that we will soon start to receive notification of East Renfrewshire consultations. Our co-convenor recently e-mailed a contact we have in the council to voice concerns from several of our members that recent removal of the urban clearway restrictions on the cycle lane on the A77, Ayr Road, could lead to vehicles being parked in the cycle lanes during commuting times, thus adding potential hazard to people’s commutes. We were aware that there had been some consultation on this, which we were not party to, but we have now formally asked to be added to the list of consultees.

If any of you out there in East Renfrewshire or other council regions within the Greater Glasgow areas do hear of consultations that might affect your cycling, please get in touch and let us know. We’ll see what we can do.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Byres Road

This is the big success story, is it not? There is to be a rethink further to Green Councillor, Christy Mearns’ (remember seeing her at the GoBike hustings prior to the City Council elections last year?) participation in last week’s council debate. Here’s the quote from her Facebook page:

“At Neighbourhoods, Housing & Public Realm policy committee this week, I had an amendment passed which will ensure that, in response to overwhelming consultation responses, future Byres Road proposals will prioritise fully segregated cycle lanes for the entire road, and air quality monitoring will be done before new plans are finalised.

Any more proposals which do not make is safer for everyone to cycle would be a missed opportunity and would do nothing to improve air quality or make cycling more attractive.”

We’ll keep you updated on the future proposals.

3.2 Hyndland, Hughenden and Dowanhill West parking controls

We mentioned this last in Digest 14 when we responded to a reply from GCC about parking changes. Last month we received a long reply from them; we think we are making some slow progress in the overall plan of things, and we have acknowledged their response: HH&D GCC response 2 190918

3.3 Clyde Place, Buchanan Wharf planning application

Details of this planning application were in Digest 14 item 1.2. Our main concern when we replied was that the South West City Way would not be downgraded. We have now received a standard reply, with a link to the on-line conditions etc but no obvious mention of the cycle route: Buchanan Wharf response 011018

The response to the Traffic Regulation Order and the views received from the developers, given in Digest17 items 3.1 and 3.2 with their insistence that they did not wish to redevelop the area with the three-lane Clyde Place next to the site, should make an improvement to the area.

3.4 City Deal Quay Wall

Not a consultation, but some good news from Glasgow City Council’s website that they are to work with the owners of the river walls to improve their condition: https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=23230  This will certainly improve things along the Clyde and who knows, we might even soon have a river front to be proud of.

3.5 Scotstoun / Jordanhill parking changes

We responded to proposed parking changes in this area back in April with this letter: GoBike Scotstoun Jordanhill Parking letter 030418  as reported in Digest 5, and we have now received this confirmation that work will go ahead:

“THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (SCOTSTOUN/JORDANHILL)

(TRAFFIC REGULATION) ORDER 2018

I refer to your support of the above named Traffic Regulation Order and can advise that your support was reported and considered. The Council have decided under its scheme of delegated functions to proceed with the proposal as advertised.  

The Order was made on 28 September 2018 and an advert will be placed in the Evening Times on 5 October 2018 stating that the Traffic Regulation Order has been made.

I trust this is of assistance, however should you require any further information on the above named Order please contact my assistant …. “

We pointed out in our letter that it is a shame that instructions in the Highway Code, in this case not to park opposite or within 10m of a junction, need to be reinforced by a Traffic Regulation Order, paint on the road and street signs. Ah, if only we had more traffic wardens….

3.6 Mosspark / Cardonald parking changes

We responded to this consultation as reported in Digest 18 item 1.3, approving the introduction of parking restrictions but pointing out the need for monitoring and enforcement of parking. We received this reply from the Traffic and Road Safety section of Glasgow City Council on 13 September:

“THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, MOSSPARK/CARDONALD

TRAFFIC REGULATION ORDER 201_

Thank you for your correspondence regarding the above named Traffic Regulation Order.

Just like any other new parking scheme the restrictions will be added to the Parking Enforcement schedule and patrolled accordingly.

Your support will be considered and included within the final report which informs of the outcome. Once a decision has been taken in regards to these proposals I shall write to you again and advise of the result.”

Aah, monitoring and enforcement …

3.7 UK Road Safety Management Capacity Review, information from Brake, the Road Safety Charity

Not necessarily a consultation, but here’s a link to a report, which Neil L pointed us to, http://www.brake.org.uk/media-centre/1843-report-finds-insufficient-government-leadership-and-funding-for-road-safety-over-past-decade which includes the finding “Road safety is not perceived as core business by all responsible agencies.” I don’t think that will come to a surprise to many of us, but it does help to explain the lack of coordination by Local Authorities, who bring in 20mph speed limits, and Police Scotland, who aren’t resourced to control them, let alone parking changes, which are managed by the local authority itself.

3.8 Calton Barras London Road/Charlotte Street Junction

Over the last few years there has been local consultation on changes in the Calton Barras area of Glasgow and those of you who have visited the Barras will have seen the new paving to roads and footways. There are changes afoot for the Gallowgate and London Road and on Tuesday 2nd October Calton Community Council and GoBike were invited to see what is proposed for the junction of London Road with Charlotte Street. Currently there is a pedestrian crossing set back from London Road plus a cycle lane that runs along London Road, which also has a crossing. The intention is to combine these two crossings into one, and importantly, have it showing a green light. This will only change to red when a motor vehicle (and we hope also a bike) is detected travelling north on Charlotte Street (which is one-way northbound). Should there be a big flow of traffic on Charlotte Street someone walking or cycling will be able to press the crossing button to return the pedestrian signal to green.

If this works, and we hope it will, since the City Council’s intention is to prioritise active travel, it will have an obvious attraction to be used at other locations.

3.9 Battlefield Design Working Group

Further to the Battlefield Consultation event on 4th September that our co-convenor Iona attended and that she reported on in Digest 18 item 1.4, we have now been invited to join the Battlefield Design Working Group. We are delighted about this and look forward to being represented at the group’s first meeting later this month.

3.10 Glasgow North East Active Travel Routes

Last month in Digest 15 item 1.2 and in Digest 16 item 1.1 we reported on the exciting news of a cycle route from Balornock into the city centre. We responded to the consultation with this letter GoBike NE Active Travel Routes comments 190818 and we have now received this detailed reply dated 04 October:

“I refer to your undernoted email and attached correspondence in response to the North East Active Travel Routes consultation and can advise as follows:

2. Give way markings for side roads along Northgate Road will be behind the continuous cycle route. Coloured screed is proposed along the cycle route at side roads junctions to highlight the presence of the lane. Tightening of radii is proposed at Geddes Road junction to calm traffic and assist crossing. Adding a raised table to calm traffic further and assist pedestrians is an option for consideration as part of the remodelling of this junction, though it would not provide pedestrian priority. Raised tables are proposed in other locations along the extent of the proposed route, where appropriate. Dropped kerbs are already in place at side roads along Northgate Road.
3. Zebra crossings are proposed on Wallacewell Road. Signalised crossings on Broomfield Road are proposed due to the relative positions of the school/mini-roundabout.
4. There is scope for possible future widening, in places, if required, although some sections are constrained due to overall road width.
5. There are no reductions in cycle lane width on the Northgate Road and Stobhill Hospital link sections, but some localised narrowing is required at bus stops elsewhere along route due to cross-sectional road profile geometry.
6. There are no plans for continuous cyclist access over existing bridge as part of the currently proposed phases. Resources for the feasibility study into bridge upgrade/replacement over the railway are still to be allocated, but it is intended that the study be completed during this phase of works and that any potential upgrade/replacement would then be a separate follow-on phase of works.
7. The existing pedestrian route width will be retained (approx. 2 m along Turner Road and 3 m along Cobden Road). A separated, delineated 3 m bi-directional route along both sections is proposed for cyclists.
8. The Sighthill TRA includes a signalised crossing at the western end of Cobden Path. The crossing will be toucanised, providing continuous travel by cyclists and pedestrians.
9. The proposed specification for the Sighthill TRA Cycling Village is published at https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/sighthill.
10. Cycle provision from Baird Street and Kyle Street into the City Centre is covered by the City Centre Transport Strategy, published at https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=18276.”

We will be writing in to thank the author for this detailed response. If any of you out there need any clarification do please get in touch at consultations@gobike.org

3.11 Glasgow City Council, Finnieston  (aka Clyde Arc, aka Squinty) Bridge, temporary TRO to allow taxis to use the Fastlink bus and cycle lane

We last reported on this Temporary Traffic Regulation Order in Digest17 item 3.7 and before that in Digest 14 and Digest 11 We have now had confirmation, on 4th September, that the TRO has been approved. Here’s the message we were sent:

“I refer to your objection to the above named Traffic Regulation Order and can advise that your objection was reported and considered. However, the Council have decided under its scheme of delegated functions to proceed with the proposal as advertised

The Order was made on 16 August 2018 and an advert was placed in the Evening Times on 21 August 2018 stating that the Traffic Regulation Order has been made.

I realise that this may not be the outcome you wished for, however, this Order is purely experimental and will last no longer than 18 months. If the trial is deemed to be successful the process of amending the permanent Traffic Regulation Order will be started, allowing all parties to lodge objections. At that time the additional works in and around the Scottish Events Campus may be underway, with one of the planned outcomes being to reduce the congestion at the north end of the Finnieston Bridge, reducing waiting time for all users, but I am, at present, unable to provide you with definitive details of the planned works.

Should you require any further information on the above named Order please contact my assistant …”

What we aren’t told is how the City Council will measure whether the measure of allowing all taxis to use the bus and cycle lanes, is successful, so when we thank them for this reply we will be asking that question.

3.12 George Square, Glasgow, today’s update

Just in today, a message from the Council Leader, Susan Aitken:

“Dear Tricia

Thank you for getting in touch and apologies for the delay in getting back to you. Your comments and response has been added to the thousands of responses we have received to the George Square consultations.

Officers are currently in the process of reading and summarising the comments and hope to produce a report in the near future. I hope this is of assistance to you.

Regards Cllr Aitken”

We had reported on this earlier in Digest17 item 1.4

3.13 Sunday’s GoBike ride, Cycling in Govan, towards the Airport and Jura Street.

The highlight of our ride on Sunday, the refurbished fountain in Fountain Gardens in Paisley – always something to delight on a GoBike ride! Well done to Andy Preece our ride leader, for finding not only this but the Paisley Horseshoe.

On Sunday’s GoBike ride, braving the wind and rain, eight intrepid souls set off from Bell’s Bridge to Kilmacolm. On the way, we cycled along Summertown Road in Govan, the subject of consultation some years ago. Travelling west there is now a shared footway on the south, which crosses to the north side, made very unsatisfactory with streetworks, before going on road as far as Broomloan Road. We then made our way through Elder Park before crossing the main road, the A739, via the underpass, to travel south over the motorway to Cardonald. As we bumped down kerbs from a very narrow footway to cross Shieldhall Road, one of our group commented that “It beggars belief  how bad the facilities are.” This, the QEUH, is a jewel in the crown of the NHS, but we have never had a positive response when we have asked for good quality cycle and active travel provision.

In Paisley, we saw signs leading towards the airport, but we were not overwhelmed by the cycle facilities we saw.

The intention on our return journey was to look at the cycle lanes on Jura Street, just off Paisley Road West, opposite Bellahouston Park, but nothing has yet been done, despite the consultation being held in March this year. This was a bit of a disappointment but we look forward to an overall Paisley Road West scheme!

Lots of feedback there, the dialogue continues!

Contents:

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. UK Government, Department of Transport, Future of Mobility Call for Evidence, closes 10 September
2. Newdyke Road, Kirkintilloch, Proposed Flat Top Speed Tables, closes 21 September
3. **NEW** Swinton Avenue, Glasgow, Traffic Regulation Order to stop up, with exemption for cycles, closes 21 September
4. George Square Glasgow, proposal to close to traffic, closes 24 September
5. A Deposit Return Scheme for Scotland, closes 25 September
6. **NEW” Stockingfield Bridge, Scottish Canals and Sustrans, workshop and exhibitions 07-13 September and website, closes for comments 28 September
7. **NEW** Battlefield re-design, Sustrans and GCC, exhibition TODAY, website comments close 30 September
8. **NEW** UK Government, Department of Transport, Open Consultation, New Cycling Offences, Causing Death or Serious Injury while Cycling, closes 05 November plus Cycling UK call to action

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. Cecil Street, Hillhead, proposal for one-way traffic

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Buchanan Wharf, office development and South West City Way
2. Clyde Place Traffic Regulation Order
3. Byres Road
4. Calton Barras 20mph
5. Greendyke Street traffic calming
6. South City Way
7. Squinty Bridge, taxis on bus lanes
8. GCC Review of progress of implementation of Strategic Plan for Cycling
9. Living Streets Pavement Parking, closes 28 September
10. The Glasgow City Council (Woodside) (Traffic Regulation and Parking Controls) Order 2018 (OFFICIAL)
11. Renfrewshire new cycle and pedestrian bridge over the Black Cart

Section 1: Current Consultations – in date order for response

1.1  UK Government, Department of Transport, Future of Mobility Call for Evidence, closes 10 September

Last chance coming up to respond to this, which we have advertised before. See the full details in Digest 15 . The link to the survey information is here and the actual survey is here.

1.2  Newdyke Road, Kirkintilloch, East Dunbartonshire Proposed Flat Top Speed Tables, closes 21 September

All the details for this were in our previous Digest 16 and we have replied with this letter: GoBike Newdyke Road speed tables Letter 300817  It’s a curious thing, but apparently the main contributory factor towards injuries to pedestrians has been the pedestrian failure to look properly! Please do support this move to reduce motor vehicle speeds around this primary school.

1.3 **NEW** Swinton Avenue, Glasgow, Traffic Regulation Order to stop up, with exemption for cycles, closes 21 September

We received this message last Monday, 27 August:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF ANDY WADDELL, HEAD OF INFRASTRUCTURE AND ENVIRONMENT, LAND AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

 Dear Sir or Madam,

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (SWINTON AVENUE), (TRAFFIC REGULATION) ORDER 2018

The Council propose to consider the introduction of the above named Traffic Regulation Order.

Please find enclosed a copy of the press notice of the proposed Order, relevant map and statement of reasons.

Details of the proposals will also be available on the Glasgow City Council website at www.glasgow.gov.uk/proposedtro . 

As stated in the attached documentation, any person wishing to object to the proposed Order should send details of the grounds for objection in writing to Traffic Operations and Road Safety, Land and Environmental Services, 231 George Street, Glasgow G1 1RX or by email to land@glasgow.gov.uk by 21^st September 2018.”

The attachments referred to are here: Swinton Avenue Notice Swinton Avenue plan Swinton Avenue Statement of Reasons

Swinton Avenue is now being used as a rat run for motor vehicles to speed up their access to the M8 etc. We support this proposal and our letter to Glasgow City Council is here: GoBike Swinton Avenue TRO response 310817 Please add your views if you know the area. We have amended this letter further to several GoBike members looking at the proposal on a slight deviation from the regular Saturday morning Cycling UK ride on 1st September out to Coatbridge and Muirhead. Eight of us cycled along Swinton Avenue and Rhindhouse Road, (the route of the rat run) but when we arrived at the traffic lights at the new roundabout to get onto the A89 we waited, and waited, until it seemed clear to us that the lights only change from red when a motor vehicle is detected. We have asked for this to be corrected, see: GoBike Swinton Avenue TRO response Amended 030917

1.4 George Square Glasgow, proposal to close to traffic, closes 24 September

We included details of this in Digest 16 and we hope that many of you have replied to the on-line consultation. In addition to replying as individuals we have sent this letter to the leader of Glasgow City Council, Susan Aikman: GoBike George Square closure support and comments 270818 and her e-mail reply to us reads as:

Thank you for your email and support of the proposal.

I can advise I have passed this onto the relevant officers
and asked that they feed this into the consultation.

1.5 A Deposit Return Scheme for Scotland, closes 25 September

We hope that you have responded to this, which we have told you about before, in Digest 15, and in  Digest 16 we told you about the Friends of the Earth handy guide, which you can find here . Please do help get rid of broken glass on our streets.

1.6 **NEW” Stockingfield Bridge, Scottish Canals and Sustrans, workshop and exhibitions 07-13 September and website closes for comments 28 September

If we wish to walk or cycle along the canal from the city towards Falkirk now requires a journey under a narrow bridge and then a short , but quite steep climb back on to the tow path.  Alasdair, one of our members, has now told us about consultation events that Scottish Canals and Sustrans are holding to ascertain the public’s view about a new bridge:

“Public Drop-in Exhibitions

Saturday 8th September 2018, Maryhill Burgh Halls, 11:00am– 4:00pm

Tuesday 11^th September 2018, Lambhill Stables, 1:00 – 6:00pm

Wednesday 12^th September 2018, Ruchill Community Cetnre, 10:00am – 2:00pm

Thursday 13^th September 2018, Cadder Community Centre, 1:00 – 7:00pm

• Public exhibition and drop in session for general public displaying ‘draft design’ and other information relevant to the proposed application.
• Staffed with members of Scottish Canals, design team and consultation team available for discussion with members of the public
• Feedback cards available for completion at the public events and via the website.”

This is what the new bridge might look like – could be a much better experience for people walking and cycling.

“Stakeholder and Community Workshop

Friday 7^th September 2018, Maryhill Burgh Halls

Two workshop sessions (repeated to provide options to maximise attendance) will be held to explore with community councils, organisations, local interest groups and other key stakeholders the proposals and areas within the proposals that can be influenced.”

The website and survey may be found here. Please do try to attend one of the sessions and respond to the survey.

1.7 **NEW** Battlefield re-design, Sustrans and GCC, exhibition TODAY, website comments close 30 September

Battlefield has changed since this photo was taken in the 1950s and its’s about to change again. As we told you in a Consultation Extra last week, things are happening after last November’s initial consultation:

“We are collecting ideas and comments for this project online. Visit our project website and leave a comment on the map from 4^th – 30^thSeptember.”

1.8 **NEW** UK Government, Department of Transport, Open Consultation, New Cycling Offences, Causing Death or Serious Injury while Cycling, closes 05 November

We are somewhat incensed by this. Four years ago, the Westminster Government recognised that our road traffic laws weren’t working and promised a full review of traffic offences and penalties. Instead they are now just looking at new cycling offences. Most of the time those of us who cycle either have to share the roads with fast-moving traffic or footways with pedestrians who travel much slower than we do. Instead of ensuring that we have good infrastructure and that there are robust penalties when motor vehicle drivers kill or injure people on bikes, it is now proposed to bring in new penalties for cycling offences. The UK government survey is here.  Please do respond to it BUT only after you have read on …

Cycling UK, of which many of us are members, have launched a campaign calling for a full review of road traffic offences and are asking us to write (they provide a letter) to your MP. Please look at their website here and support this action. GoBike has declared its support and you may read about that here in a post we put out on 27 August.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

2.1 Cecil Street, Hillhead, proposal for one-way traffic

GoBike member, Neil L, told us about the list of topics for Glasgow City Council’s Environment, Sustainability and Carbon Reduction City Policy Committee Agenda – 28 August 2018, given here: https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/councillorsandcommittees/submissiondocuments.asp?submissionid=89316  and one interesting item is the proposal supported by the local Community Council to make Cecil Street one-way, http://www.glasgow.gov.uk/councillorsandcommittees/viewDoc.asp?c=P62AFQDN2UZL2UUT2U

While we have no strong objection to one-way streets, we do object to cycles being included. We need the permeability that two-way cycling gives us and we will be watching out for progress on this item.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Buchanan Wharf, Glasgow,office development and South West City Way

As reported in Digest 16, GoBike was invited to a meeting with Drum Property and their Consultant Engineer, Fairhurst. Tricia Fort attended this meeting, called at short notice on Thursday 23 August. It had been hoped that Sustrans would be represented but this was not possible. The discussion was positive. The developers would not take on the site with a three lane road between it and the Clyde, hence the forthcoming closure of Clyde Place. The development will have only a few car parking places, and it is expected that most people working there or visiting will either use public transport, walk or cycle. Cycle parking will be provided.

The South West City Way will remain in place but there will be a few changes. There will be three raised pedestrian crossings from the development to the riverside walkway, and at the west of the site it has been proposed to have setts marking out areas where pedestrians and vehicles will be crossing into the site. Tricia made the point that setts do not make for a comfortable cycle ride – let’s see if they accede to this concern. During the construction phase cycles will be diverted to the riverside walkway for a period of about 3-4 months. We’ll keep you posted with updates.

3.2 Clyde Place Traffic Regulation Order

We were told by e-mail on 24th August that despite our objection to part of this order (re the failure to provide for cycle traffic with a contraflow northbound cycle lane on Bridge Street, pictured), the order will be implemented. There is one change to the initial proposal and that is for less stringent parking restrictions on Kingston Street! Nothing for cycling, so we still have to brave the one-way system with cars, vans and buses to get from Eglinton Street into the city centre. The good news though, is that Clyde Place will close to through motor traffic next year, giving a boost to the riverside area.

3.3 Byres Road Update

On 29 August we got this update from the senior engineer for the Byres Road changes in Glasgow City Council:

Apologies for the delay in getting back to you- it has been 
an incredibly busy few weeks. 

We are looking at the potential to introduce changes to the 
design and will be in touch with yourself and other 
stakeholders to discuss in the near future.

So, we wait with bated breath to see what the changes will be!

3.4 Calton Barras 20mph speed limit

We supported the TRO to introduce a 20mph speed limit east of the Saltmarket and High Street, (see  Digest 10) with our only concern being with the introduction of speed cushions on Greendyke Street. We were told on 24th August that the scheme will go ahead as advertised. Good news and bad, but see the next item.

3.5 Greendyke Street Traffic Calming

As inferred above, we objected to the Traffic Regulation Order to construct buildouts and install speed cushions on Greendyke Street, just on the north side of Glasgow Green. We suggested that cycle lanes be constructed with zebra crossings to allow people to cross over into the park. We were told on 23rd August that the scheme will go ahead as originally proposed. The buildouts protect the car parking places and push bikes out into the centre of the street. This action does just about nothing for active travel.

3.6 South City Way

Back in Digest 10 we informed you of the Traffic Regulation Order for the South City Way on Victoria Road and Pollokshaws Road. We supported this and we have now been told, 23rd August, that it has been confirmed. You might have noticed that cycle lane construction is already proceeding on Pollokshaws Road towards the Brazen Head pub.

3.7 Squinty Bridge, taxis on bus lanes

We objected to the Finnieston Bridge Temporary Traffic Regulation Order to allow taxis to use the two western lanes, (the bus lanes) on the Clyde Arc Bridge. Details were in Digest 11 and in Digest 14. We copied the long reply that we had received from Glasgow City Council. Other than that, we have heard nothing. although GoBike member Brenda, has told us that the signs for these two road lanes have now been amended to allow taxis as well as buses and bikes to use them – and the taxis are definitely exploiting this opportunity. This is yet another move from the City Council that sets back the progress of cycle traffic in the city.

3.8 GCC Review of progress of implementation of Strategic Plan for Cycling, and Secure Cycle Parking

Above we told you that GoBike member, Neil L, had alerted us to the agenda for last week’s Glasgow City Council’s Environment, Sustainability and Carbon Reduction City Policy Committee:   https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/councillorsandcommittees/submissiondocuments.asp?submissionid=89316

There’s to be a review of the Council’s Strategic Plan for Cycling 2016 – 2025, which GoBike did comment on at the consultation stage, plus investigation into providing secure cycle parking and one or two other items that might take your interest.

3.9 Living Streets Pavement Parking, closes 28 September

This has been in the last few digests (see Digest 16), and please do support this move if you haven’t already done so.

The link is here

3.10 The Glasgow City Council (Woodside) (Traffic Regulation and Parking Controls) Order 2018 (OFFICIAL)

We first mentioned this in Digest 11 and we have now heard, on 31st August, that the order, which we supported, has been approved. That’s good news for Woodside residents, who are concerned about uncontrolled parking and is a precursor of the cycle improvements we hope to see soon in the area.

3.11 Renfrewshire new cycle and pedestrian bridge over the Black Cart

Last but not least we have news of a new bridge over the Black Cart River, sent to us by both Neil L and Alasdair. We missed any initial consultation on this but it’s good to see active travel improvements coming out of the City Deal. Here are the details from Renfrewshire Council:

“Green light for cycle bridge into investment area.

A new bridge over the Black Cart that will connect cyclists and pedestrians to the Glasgow Airport Investment Area development in Renfrewshire has been granted planning consent.

Councillors on the Communities, Housing and Planning board have given the green light to construction of the purpose-built pedestrian bridge and cycleway at the south end of Greenock Road.
It will provide a safe route for cyclists and pedestrians to cross the busy junction with Inchinnan Road and enable access to a new development site which has already secured significant investment.

The crossing forms part of the £39.1million Glasgow Airport Investment Area (GAIA) project. Planning consent was previously granted for other elements of the GAIA works, including the construction of a new high quality boulevard into the investment area through re-alignment of Abbotsinch Road as well as a new two-lane link bridge over the White Cart linking communities and development sites on the east of the White Cart to the investment area. These infrastructure improvements underpin a 150-acre development site next to Glasgow Airport and enhance connections to the nearby Westway, Inchinnan and Airport business parks.

Further information on all of our City Deal projects can be found on our website at www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/citydeal.”

So that’s it for now folks, and that’s it until October. Tricia will be taking a welcome holiday, but will be back with the next digest in October. In the meantime we will let you know of anything critical, but do expect another bumper issue in the first couple of weeks of October.

Contents:

Section 1: Current Consultations.

1. Yorkhill and Kelvingrove Community Council, second consultation event TOMORROW, 13 June
2. Lenzie Traffic Management and Parking Restrictions, closes 15 June
3. SEC Taxi Rank, closes 15 June
4. Woodside 20mph, closes 15 June
5. Calton Barras Meatmarket redevelopment closes 15 June
6. UK Government — Future of Mobility Ideas survey,Deadline: 21 June
7. Calton Barras 20mph zone, closes 22 June
8. Finnieston Bridge Experimental TRO, closes 22 June
9. Hyndland, Hughenden and Dowanhill West parking closes 25 June
10. Byres Road, closes 27 June
11. Greendyke Street traffic calming closes 29 June
12. Woodside Parking Controls and cycle access, closes 13 July

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations and Policy Documents

1. Glasgow City Council Strategic Plan 2017 – 2022
2. Scottish Government, Active Travel Task Force report

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. East Renfrewshire dangerous junctions
2. Jordanhill parking
3. Woodside 20mph
4. Yoker to Knightswood cycle way

1. Current Consultations – in date order for responses

1.1 Yorkhill and Kelvingrove Community Council, Cycle Village Proposal, event 13 June

We have told you before of the events arranged by Yorkhill and Kelvingrove Community Council to publicise and consult on their Cycle Village Proposal, see: https://yokecoco.wordpress.com/cycle-village-proposal/  Their first event was on Saturday and the second is tomorrow 13 June at Bike for Good, Haugh Road (just off Argyle Street at Radnor Street/Kelvin Way, from 3pm to 8pm.  The Community Council is working with Sustrans and Glasgow City Council to make Yorkhill, Kelvingrove and Finnieston more active-travel-friendly.This is something all our Community Councils should be doing, so please get along, see how it’s done, and complete their on-line survey.

1.2 Lenzie Traffic Management and Parking Restrictions, closes this Friday 15 June

We don’t hear much from East Dunbartonshire but these proposals (see Digest 10) are aimed at reducing random parking around Lenzie Station. We support these proposals (see our response, GoBike Lenzie Station parking Letter 120618) but we hope that they will positively encourage active travel.

1.3 Scottish Exhibition Centre, Glasgow, TRO amendment, moving the Taxi Rank and altering the Road Layout, closes this Friday 15 June

We have objected to these proposals on the grounds that they do nothing for cycling – but we have sent in ideas for how they might be able to. Again, details were in Digest 10 and our response, with our alternative drawing are here:  GoBike Finnieston Bridge Experiment TRO Objection 080618

Do please submit your views – contact details are on our letter.

1.4 Woodside, Glasgow, 20mph zone, closes this Friday 15 July

Our response was in Digest 10 (see GoBike Woodside 20mph response 290518) and we have had some feedback from the City Council, see section 3 below. Have a read of their views on ensuring that 20 means 20 and then please send in your response.

1.5 Calton Barras Meatmarket redevelopment, closes 15 June

This has been rumbling on for some time, with proposals to start developing the empty site running along Duke Street as far as Bellgrove Station; the details are here:   https://publicaccess.glasgow.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=documents&keyVal=P87M4HEXHT500  Following a public consultation event back in the winter a segregated cycle lane has been added running east to west through the site. Currently it doesn’t link to anything but, to the east there is the intention to link it to the core path route and to the west, but sometime in the future, across the current Doig bus and coach depot to Collegelands. Glasgow Live have written about it here: https://www.glasgowlive.co.uk/news/glasgow-news/plans-lodged-transform-bellgrove-meat-14733896  We are waiting for confirmation of the width of the cycle lane (3.0m on the drawing but 2.7m in the Planning Statement 2) but will most probably write in this week with a mild welcome to the plans. It’s good that they are finally considering cycling but it might well mean that those of us who cycle on Duke Street will get nothing better than what’s there now.

1.7 Calton Barras, Glasgow, 20mph zone, closes 22 June

All the details were in Digest 10 and we have now written in to welcome this extension of the City Centre 20mph, but we have expressed disappointment at the traffic calming (buildouts and speed cushions) proposed for Greendyke Street. Here’s our letter: GoBike Calton Barras 20mph Letter 080618 and, no sooner had we sent it in than another Traffic Regulation Order proposal arrived for, wait for it, Traffic Calming on Greendyke Street, see item 1.11 below.

1.8 ** NEW ** Finnieston Bridge Experimental TRO, closes 22 June

This came in on the 1st of June and it’ s got us slightly incensed. The whole Fastlink scheme has not been a success, and this experimental Traffic Regulation Order (for up to 18 months) is to see what effect allowing taxis (including private hires) in the bus and cycle lanes on the west side of the bridge will have on congestion at the north end of the bridge. The wording of the e-mail we received is as follows:

“THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (FINNIESTON BRIDGE), (EXPERIMENTAL TRAFFIC REGULATION) ORDER 2018

 The Council propose to consider the introduction of the above named Experimental Traffic Regulation Order.

Please find enclosed a copy of the press notice of the proposed Order, relevant map, statement of reasons, and detailed report.

Details of the proposals will also be available on the Glasgow City Council website at www.glasgow.gov.uk/proposedtro . 

As stated in the attached documentation, any person wishing to object to the proposed Order should send details of the grounds for objection in writing to Projects Manager, Project Management and Design, Land & Environmental Services, 231 George Street, Glasgow G1 1RX or by e-mail to land@glasgow.gov.uk by Friday 22nd June 2018.

Yours faithfully

Andy Waddell, Head of Infrastructure and Environment, Land and Environmental Services”

And the documents they sent are here: Press Notice of Proposed Order  Public Consultation  Relevant Map  Report  Statement of Reasons

We have replied in detail objecting to the proposals. We are of the view that so many piecemeal changes have been made to this scheme and, in particular, to the use of the bridge, that now is the time for a fundamental review of the operation of the whole Fastlnk route, see: GoBike Finnieston Bridge Experiment TRO Objection 080618

1.9 Hyndland, Hughenden and Dowanhill West parking closes 25 June

This closes 25 June, the day before our next digest is due out but it does look like car city in this area, with parking proposed for both sides of Hyndland Road between Clarence Drive and Great Western Road. This is one place we took all four local councillors last autumn on our tours yet it doesn’t look like there is any chance of cycle lanes here. Clarence Drive, likewise, will not be for the faint-hearted on a bike even though it forms part of the Colleges Cycle Route. One of our vocal members lives in this area and will be getting views to us this week for our response, but if you don’t like what you see then do please let the council, and the councillors in this ward (23, Kelvindale and Partick East) know. The documents issued are repeated here (they were in Digest 10) to assist: TRO_2015_004-003 Hyndland, Hughenden & Dowanhill West (Publication) 2 of… 11.01 – Publication of Proposals – Press Notice – FINAL (ADVERTISED 24.0… 09.02 – Frequently Asked Questions 09.01 – Draft Report 08 – Statement of Reason

You might remember that Highburgh Road, Hyndland Road and Clarence Drive form part of the at one time much vaunted Colleges Cycle Route and, if the council had an overall cycling strategy this would by now have been strengthened and extended out to Great Western Road and up to Kelvindale. Oh, sorry, did we forget the City Council’s love of cars! And the e-mail address for your response is saferparking@glasgow.gov.uk  An oxymoron?

1.10 Byres Road, Glasgow, closes 27 June

Yes, folks, still time to get your views in and all the details are here:  https://www.glasgowconsult.co.uk/KMS/dmart.aspx?strTab=PublicDMartCurrent&NoIP=1 

The GoBike response is here: GoBike Byres Road 0618 and do please use any of this in your response.

1.11 **NEW** –  Greendyke Street, traffic calming, closes 29 June

Yes, as in 1.7 above, we had just sent in our views, repeated here: GoBike Calton Barras 20mph Letter 080618 generally welcoming the 20mph speed limit proposed for this area near the Barras and Glasgow Green, when this message arrived from the City Council:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF ANDY WADDELL, HEAD OF INFRASTRUCTURE AND ENVIRONMENT, LAND AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

 Dear Sir / Madam

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (GREENDYKE STREET), TRAFFIC CALMING SCHEME 201_

The Council propose to consider the introduction of the above named Traffic Calming Scheme and I wish to establish the views of your organisation.

Background to the proposed Scheme

Glasgow City Council are currently in the process of implementing Mandatory 20mph Speed Limit Zones throughout the City. 

The purpose of the Mandatory 20mph Speed Limit Zone is to ensure that vehicle users reduce their speeds to 20mph or less, and therefore improve road safety for pedestrians, cyclists and all other vehicle users.  By turn, it is anticipated that this will encourage more people to walk and cycle, which would have associated health benefits.  

Furthermore, a report by Department for Transport (DfT), titled, ‘Relationship between Speed and Risk of Fatal Injury: Pedestrians and Car Occupants’, notes the following benefits:

–     If someone is hit by a car at 40 mph they are 30% likely to be killed.

–     If someone is hit by a car at 30 mph they are 7% likely to be killed.

–     If someone is hit by a car at 20 mph they are 1% likely to be killed.

In order to encourage low vehicle speeds, the council propose to install five sets of  Buildouts and speed cushions between No.33 Greendyke Street to 10m South of the Glasgow Green council depot access.

Roads affected by the proposed Scheme

The list of roads affected by these proposals are:-

• GREENDYKE STREET

Details of the proposed Scheme

The proposed Scheme (as depicted on the attached plans) will comprise of:-

1. The installation of 2 Buildouts (Approx. 7.4m long 2.5m wide) and 2 speed cushions (Approx. 3m long 2m wide and 75mm high) at a point approximately 54 metres east of the extended east kerbline of Turnbull Street.
2. The installation of 2 Buildouts (Approx. 7.4m long 2.5m wide) and 2 speed cushions (Approx. 3m long 2m wide and 75mm high) at a point approximately 55 metres West of the extended West kerbline of Lanark Street.
3. The installation of 2 Buildouts (Approx. 7.4m long 2.5m wide) and 2 speed cushions (Approx. 3m long 2m wide and 75mm high) at a point approximately 12 metres east of the extended east kerbline of Lanark Street.
4. The installation of 2 Buildouts (Approx. 7.4m long 2.5m wide) and 2 speed cushions (Approx. 3m long 2m wide and 75mm high) at a point approximately 12 metres east of the extended east kerbline of Charlotte Street.
5. The installation of 2 Buildouts (Approx. 7.4m long 2.5m wide) and 2 speed cushions (Approx. 3m long 2m wide and 75mm high) at a point approximately 10 metres south of the extended south kerbline of Glasgow Green council depot access..

Please provide any comments you wish to make on these proposals within 21 days (reply by 29 June 2018).

In the meantime, should you require any further information or clarification on any points arising from the proposals, do not hesitate to contact my officer Martin Sherriff on 0141  287 9579.

Should the Council proceed with these proposals; I will write to you again and confirm this.

Yours faithfully

Andy Waddell, Head of Infrastructure and Environment, Land and Environmental Services”

So, while I think most of us will agree that the 20mph speed limit will “improve road safety for pedestrians, cyclists and all other vehicle users”, would any of us think that buildouts and speed cushions are the way to achieve that? You can also see from the photo/map we have added that good cycle facilities along Greendyke Street would form a useful link from London Road and the Gallowgate towards the South City Way. We’ll be drawing our response up soon.

1.12 **NEW** – Glasgow Woodside Parking Controls, closes 13 July

Parking restrictions are proposed for Woodside, including a welcome “prohibition of driving (except Pedal Cycles) at North Woodside Road”. Here’s the e-mail we got on 31 May:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF ANDY WADDELL, HEAD OF INFRASTRUCTURE AND ENVIRONMENT, LAND AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

Dear Sir / Madam

The Glasgow City Council (Woodside) (Traffic Regulation and Parking Controls) Order 201_

 The Council propose to consider the introduction of the above named Traffic Regulation Order.

Please find enclosed a copy of the press notice of the proposed Order, relevant map, statement of reasons and detailed report.

Details of the proposals will also be available on the Glasgow City Council website at www.glasgow.gov.uk/proposedtro.                                                                                                

As stated in the attached documentation, any person wishing to object to the proposed Order should send details of the ground for their objection in writing to Andy Waddell, Head of Infrastructure and Environment, Land and Environmental Services, Exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX or by email to land@glasgow.gov.uk by Friday 13 July 2018.

Yours faithfully

Andy Waddell, Head of Infrastructure and Environment, Land and Environmental Services”

The documents referred to are here: Advert Woodside parking and cycle access  Draft Report  Plan 1-1   Statement of Reasons

We are minded to support this. The area is changing, with the North Woodside Health Centre soon to be replaced, the large car showroom on Maryhill Road about to close and people now parking in the area because of parking restrictions elsewhere.

2. Forthcoming Consultations and Policy Documents

2.1 Glasgow City Council Strategic Plan 2017 – 2022

We were told about this document, see: https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=17528 through our membership of the City Council’s Active Travel Forum. and one of its priorities, at the top of page 19, is to “Prioritise sustainable transport across the city”. Aye right, so not just on the South City Way, then?

2.2 Scottish Government’s Active Travel Task Force findings

It’s good to see that these findings are out. You can see them at:  https://www.transport.gov.scot/media/42284/active-travel-task-force-june-2018.pdf

3. Consultation Feedback

3.1 Dangerous junctions in East Renfrewshire

We have had a note to say “Thanks, response duly noted and considered during review.”  We hope, of course that this means our proposals for Dutch-style roundabouts for Spiersbridge and Eastwood Toll will be considered during the review that started last week.

3.2 Glasgow Woodside proposal for 20mph

We have had an “interesting” reply from Glasgow City Council to our response, GoBike Woodside 20mph response 290518 to this Traffic Regulation Order; this is the e-mail we got on 05 June:

“The Glasgow City Council (Woodside) (20mph Speed Limit Zone) Order 201_

Thank you for your correspondence regarding the above named Traffic Regulation Order.

In response to your point raised with enforcement of the 20mph zones,  I can confirm the Police are included in the consultation process when a 20mph zone is being introduced. Indeed, during discussions with Police Scotland Officers, they have indicated that they support the Council’s traffic calming policy.  The Council has no input into where and when the Police carry out enforcement.

Your support will be considered and included within the final report which will inform the decision. Once a decision has been taken in regards to these proposals I shall write to you again and advise of the outcome.

Yours sincerely

Andy Waddell, Head of Infrastructure and Environment, Land and Environmental Services”

So there we appear to have it – the police are consulted on 20mph limits, but the council have no say in any enforcement.

3.3 Scotstoun/Jordanhill parking restrictions

Back in early April we submitted this letter: GoBike Scotstoun Jordanhill Parking letter 030418  about proposed parking restrictions in Scotstoun and Jordanhill, primarily at junctions where, according to the Highway Code, no-one should park anyway. We got this response from Glasgow City Council on 01 June:

“THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, SCOTSTOUN/JORDANHILL, TRAFFIC REGULATION ORDER 201_

Thank you for your correspondence regarding the above named Traffic Regulation Order.

The dimensions on the majority of the roads are mostly 5metres, round the corners, this will allow better visibility when entering and exiting the junctions.

Just like any other new parking scheme the restrictions will be added to the Parking Enforcement schedule and patrolled accordingly.

Your support will be considered and included within the final report which inform the decision. Once a decision has been taken in regards to these proposals I shall write to you again and advise of the outcome.

Yours sincerely

Andy Waddell, Head of Infrastructure & Environment, Land and Environmental Services”

The 5m dimension might be the distance back from the corner where the proposed double yellow lines will extend and the City Council’s Parking Enforcement Officers have a growing list of sites to check; let’s hope the frequency doesn’t suffer.

3.4 YOKER TO KNIGHTSWOOD CYCLE ROUTE

You might remember that at the end of 2017 GoBike objected to the shared footway section of this route, currently being constructed to ease access to the new BMX circuit in Knightswood Park, which all has to be ready for the European Championships to be held in Glasgow from 01 – 12 August?  We then came under some pressure to remove our objection and on 10 January we went in to meet City Council staff, following it up with this letter: GoBike Yoker to Knightwood Redetermination Withdraw objection 110118

On Sunday 03 June the GoBike monthly ride included a visit to see all the works that are being constructed and here’s the resulting e-mail we have now sent in to GCC:

“To: land@glasgow.gov.uk, Brown, Andrew (LES) <Andrew.Brown@glasgow.gov.uk>

Andrew, hello,

You will remember that at the end of last year GoBike was under some pressure to remove our objection to the proposals for the Yoker to Knightswood cycle route?  Further to our meeting with you on 10 January this year, we withdrew that objection, with some reservations outlined in the letter we submitted, copy attached for reference.

Last Sunday, 03 June, the monthly GoBike ride included a view of the works to date, cycling up Dyke Road, along Alderman Road, Lincoln Avenue and finally Archerhill Road before continuing on our route north.
It was clear that there is a lot of work to be done before August when the Games take place, but we note 2 points of concern, both on Archerhill Road:

1. Access from the segregated cycle lanes to the footway at the bus stop where the route becomes a shared footway:  the “dropped” kerb is of uneven height and needs to be flush with the road surface; one of our group came off their bike here – fortunately with only minor injuries, but we do not wish this to happen again.
2. Footway parking on the shared footway section; this was a concern when we met you and, unfortunately our fears were well-founded.  From the bus stop going west there was continuous parking part on the footway, with drivers apparently assuming that the white line denoting the 0.5m buffer strip was the edge of the parking area!  0.5m, the Absolute Minimum according to Cycling by Design, has never been a realistic dimension and it is only those of us who are aware of your Design Guide who would recognise it as such.  Could you now arrange for planters, or some other suitable barrier, to be placed in this buffer zone, to ensure that no-one cycling along this shared footway is hit by a car door being opened in their path?

With best wishes,

Tricia Fort for Consultations, GoBike, Strathclyde Cycle Campaign, www.gobike.org  “

So, lots for you to ponder over and get those fingers typing and yes, if you are wondering, we are getting, and responding to, far more consultations than previously. We are including the initial consultations rather than just the Traffic Regulation Orders and also extending out of Glasgow a little and this means that now, in June, we have responded to as many in 2018 as we did in all of 2017.

Over the last year some of our members led by Euan, Iain and Jim have been working very hard on a ‘Space for People’ @peoplebyresroad campaign based around the planned changes to Byres Road. They’ve just put out a really interesting blog illustrating connections within our current cycling network, with suggestions on how Byres Road can help start to create better connections locally and also throughout the wider city network.

Have a read – it’s great – and if you like what you read give them a follow and a share. And thanks to you three for your excellent work.

https://space4peoplebyresroad.wordpress.com/blog/