Commitments from the deal have been included in the Programme for Government, published this week. Here are some highlights from the PfG:

• Spend at least £320 million or 10% of the total transport budget goes on active travel by 2024-25
• New Cycling Framework for Active Travel – to be published in 2022
• Establishing an active freeway network for Scotland
• Ensure all appropriate roads in built-up areas have a safer speed limit of 20 mph by 2025
• An online reporting system – a 1‑year pilot project enabling anyone to upload camera footage of dangerous driving.
• Maintaining the Scotland Cycle Repair Scheme
• Produce a route map, by the end of 2021, for achieving the target to reduce the use of cars – measured as ‘car kilometres’ – by 20% by 2030
• Deliver on our vision for “20-minute neighbourhoods”
• Place Based Investment programme, backed with £325 million over the next five years.

There’s only a couple of smallish consultations from Transport Scotland this month. In the coming weeks and months, as the new parliamentary term really gets going, we expect there to be an increase in consultations , some of which will seek opinions on implementing the above policies.

Section 1: Current Consultations

(in date order for responses)

1.1: Transport Scotland – Consultation on Penalty Charge Notices for Parking Enforcement

Illegal and inconsiderate parking is at best an annoyance and at worst a safety risk for cyclists. The government is consulting on parking charges including differentiating between different offences. For example, it makes sense to charge someone more for parking on a double yellow than for overstaying their time in a parking space. As the consultation says ‘For enforcement to be effective, penalty charges for parking in breach of the prohibitions need to be set at an appropriate level.’

Closes 4 October 2021

1.2: Transport Scotland – Membership of the National Smart Ticketing Advisory Board Consultation

This may be a wee bit niche, however, if like me you agree that public bike share schemes should be part of smart ticketing in Scotland it’s worth a quick response – even if you answer only Question 1 which asks whether disability organisations and active travel organisations should be included on the Board.

Closes 12 October 2021

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

No specific consultations expected

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1: Law Commission (& Scottish Law Commission) – Automated Vehicles: A regulatory framework for automated vehicles

This was featured in Consultation Digest (National) Issue 5 in March. Here is the response we received to the GoBike submission:

“Dear All,

The team has spent the last few months reviewing the materials submitted in response to our third consultation which closed in March this year. We are pleased to announce the publication of the summary of responses to our paper. In it we outline the key arguments put to us and direction of travel as we work towards the final report at the end of this year.

We have also put all the responses we received on our website.

Today we are also publishing a draft impact assessment and questions about the impact of our proposed reforms alongside the summary and welcome views.

Between now and the final report we have no further consultations planned but the team will be very happy to hear from you should you wish to bring any developments or ideas to our attention.

The summary of responses and next steps, all consultation responses received and our draft impact assessment are available on our project pages at https://www.lawcom.gov.uk/project/automated-vehicles/ or https://www.scotlawcom.gov.uk/law-reform/law-reform-projects/joint-projects/automated-vehicles/ 

Yours sincerely,

Automated Vehicles Team – Law Commissions

 Email: automatedvehicles@lawcommission.gov.uk

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. Glasgow, Battlefield, Drop-in Event, TODAY, 23 July, 3pm – 7pm
2. GoBike member’s survey, Attitudes to Cycling in Glasgow, closes tomorrow, 24 July
3. Glasgow, Future Policy Development of Taxi and Private Hire Car Licensing, closes 29 July
4. **NEW** Glasgow, (Mount Florida) (Traffic Regulation) Order) Waiting and Loading Restrictions, closes 02 August
5. Glasgow (North Kelvin, North Woodside and Woodlands)(Mandatory 20mph Speed Limit Order, closes 02 August
6. Glasgow, South City Way Traffic Management Order, 2-way cycle lane on Bridgegate and King Street, closes 09 August
7. Glasgow St Enoch District Regeneration Framework Public Consultation, closes 06 September

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. Glasgow, Dennistoun & Royston – Traffic Management & Parking Controls Order 201 drop-in events 24, 25 and 27 July
2. Glasgow ‘Avenues’ preview events for Renfrew, Killermont & North Hanover Streets, Tuesday 06 August
3. Glasgow, Pollok Country Park – Project Update and Public Consultation Event, 22 August

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. East Dunbartonshire, Lenzie Station
2. Glasgow, Ladyloan Avenue
3. Glasgow Airport Investment Area (GAIA) Construction Update

Section 1: Current Consultations , in date order for responses

1.1 Glasgow, Battlefield Street Design, Showcase Event, TODAY, 23 June

Battlefield is no longer as shown here but there are moves to make it a calmer place, with less emphasis on the private car. Here’s the information from Sustrans about today’s event and the current on-line consultation:

“Hello,
I am emailing just as a reminder about the Battlefield Street Design Session 4 Showcase Event taking place next Tuesday 23^rd July. This is a public drop-in event at Langside Parish church and is open to everyone. I would be grateful if you could share this amongst anyone you think maybe interested? Further details are below and I’ve attached the event poster to this email.

Showcase event: Tuesday 23^rd July 2019

The designs for Battlefield area have been developed following nine months of engagement by Sustrans and Glasgow City Council that has reached almost 6,000 local people. During March, April and May, people took part in a range of activities to provide feedback which has helped to refine the concept that will be handed over to Glasgow City Council at the end of July for further development.  On Tuesday 23^rd July, at Langside Parish Church in Glasgow, the public are invited to have the opportunity to:

Drop-in anytime between 4pm and 7pm to view the updated concept design for the following areas; Battlefield Rest junction, Battlefield Road, Grange Road and Langside Road.

Find out about activities in the area from Urban Croft South Seeds, Battlefield Community Project, Give a Dog a Bone, Langside Heritage Group and many more;

Come and say hello to us outside Coffeescene between 3pm and 6pm where we’ll have a summary of the designs and some Sustrans freebies to give away!

Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions at all.
Many thanks in advance,

Ellie Cady
Project Lead – Battlefield | Street Design | Sustrans Scotland
Ellie.Cady@sustrans.org.uk

A further email informed of an ongoing survey:

“We would love to hear the views from all of those involved to help us improve the Street Design process for future projects. From the 23^rd July we would like to invite you to complete a short online survey about the project and engagement process. This survey should take no longer than 5 minutes to complete and will be made available through our project website from next week. You will also receive a reminder by email with the link to the survey.”

So do have a look at that and, through GoBike’s involvement with the Focus Group for the redesign of Battlefield, we will be keeping you updated as things proceed.

1.2 Attitudes to Cycling in Glasgow, closes tomorrow, Wednesday 24 July

Active GoBike member, Eachann Gillies, who is our lead in the Battlefield Focus Group, is also studying for an MSc at Glasgow Caledonian University. As part of that he would like as many people as possible to fill in his survey on Attitudes to Cycling in Glasgow. It’s quite short, so do please help him. Here’s the link to the survey.

1.3 Glasgow, Future Policy Development of Taxi and Private Hire Car Licensing, closes 29 July

Taxis and private hire vehicles are something that most of us will use at some point so it is critical that we are objective about them and ensure that they provide a good service that meets the needs of the city, its residents and its visitors. Here is the GoBike response to the consultation. Here is the link to the consultation.

1.4 **NEW** Glasgow, (Mount Florida) (Traffic Regulation) Order) Waiting and Loading Restrictions, closes 02 August

On 12 July GoBike received the following email under the somewhat innocuous title of “Mount Florida Traffic Regulation Order”. It is only by looking at the attachments that one realises what is being done to set back the cause of active travel in the area.

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF ANDY WADDELL, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Sir or Madam,

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (MOUNT FLORIDA) (TRAFFIC REGULATION) 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 grounds for objection in writing to Andy Waddell, Director of Operations, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability, Exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX or by e-mail to land@glasgow.gov.uk  by Friday 2 August 2019.
Yours faithfully” etc

Here are the documents that accompanied the email: Press Notice, Plan (1 of 2), Plan (2 of 2), Report and Statement of Reasons.

When one looks at the plans, particularly 1 of 2, it becomes clear that there are proposals to make Florida Street and Bolton Drive one-way westbound between Clincart Road and Florida Drive and to make Clincart Road one-way southbound to Bolton Drive and one-way northbound to Bolton Drive, with a buildout to the footway on Bolton Drive.
While this might rationalise car movements, it contradicts Transport Scotland’s and Glasgow City Council’s design guide, “Cycling by Design” where Clause 5.1.5 (page 52) states “The default position should be to permit two-way cycling on one-way streets.” The City Council conveniently ignores this every time a parking scheme is developed, thus severely limiting permeability of our residential areas for cycle traffic.

Here’s a promising report on contraflow cycling from the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, which we have quoted to Glasgow City Council.

In addition parking and parking/loading restrictions are proposed, particularly at junctions and this is despite Rule 243 of the Highway Code stating as one of its bullet points: ” DO NOT stop or park opposite or within 10 metres (32 feet) of a junction, except in an authorised parking space” See: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/the-highway-code/waiting-and-parking-238-to-252

We note that the City Council refers to the local Community Council, who are reflecting residents’ views that “they have nowhere to park” and many wish to park their private car directly outside the door to their close. However, this flies in the face of City Council policy to reduce car use, to promote active travel and rejuvenate our local neighbourhoods.
Event day parking restrictions are in place in this area and it would seem logical to extend restrictions by introducing a Residents’ Parking Zone.

If Glasgow City Council, and other local authorities, and/or Police Scotland were to employ more parking/traffic wardens rather than rely on the good will of drivers to observe paint lines at the edges of our streets then we might be able to use our streets for the purpose for which they were intended, ie to get from A to B.

GoBike’s response to this consultation reflects the above points.

1.5 Glasgow (North Kelvin, North Woodside and Woodlands)(Mandatory 20mph Speed Limit Order, closes 02 August

The details of this proposed addition to the 80 mandatory 20mph zones in the city were first given in Digest 37, Item 1.6. The GoBike letter of support for this proposal also includes our view that the City Council really does need to bite the bullet on this and impose a city-wide default 20mph limit.

1.6 Glasgow, South City Way Traffic Management Order, 2-way cycle lane on Bridgegate and King Street, closes 09 August

This proposal, bringing the South City Way into the Merchant City, was detailed in Digest 38, Item 1.5. GoBike is generally very supportive, but we are considering the detail and our response will be contained in our next Digest the big Four Zero, due out on 06 August.

1.7 Glasgow St Enoch District Regeneration Framework Public Consultation, closes 06 September

As reported before, we are working on our response, which will be submitted next month. This is an important city centre area, so do please have a look at the consultation information that is provided on the City Council’s Current Consultations page at: https://www.glasgowconsult.co.uk/KMS/dmart.aspx?strTab=PublicDMartCurrent&NoIP=1 and submit your own response, if you can.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

2.1 Glasgow, Dennistoun & Royston – Traffic Management & Parking Controls Order 201 drop-in events 24, 25 and 27 July

In Digest 38, Item 2.5, we published details of drop-in events for residents to learn about the proposed parking changes for Dennistoun and Royston:
Wednesday 24 July, Royston Library, 2 – 7 pm
Thursday 25 July, Dennistoun Library, 2 – 7 pm
Saturday 27 July, Dennistoun Library, 10 am – 1 pm

However, it looks as if this isn’t a universally popular move, if this article from the Evening Times on 19 July is anything to go by! See: https://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/news/17781308.parking-zone-plan-east-end-scrapped/?ref=ebln

If you don’t agree that our streets should be linear car parks and you live, or work in this area, or visit regularly, then get yourself along to one of these events to support the proposals.

2.2 Glasgow ‘Avenues’ preview events for Renfrew, Killermont & North Hanover Streets, Tuesday 06 August, with a closing date for on-line comments of 18 August

On 17 July GoBike received the following invitation from Civic Engineers, who are working for the City Council on the Avenues projects

“You are invited to the following event: Glasgow city centre ‘Avenues’: initial design ideas for Renfrew St, Killermont St and North Hanover St

Multiple events from: Tuesday, 6 August 2019 from 13:00 to 15:30 (BST) The Glasgow Royal Concert Hall (City of Music Studio, 3rd floor)
2 Sauchiehall Street
G2 3NY Glasgow
United Kingdom
View Map

Yes No Maybe

You’re invited to a preview of initial design ideas for Renfrew Street, Killermont Street and North Hanover Street on Tuesday 6th August in Glasgow Royal Concert Hall.  There is a choice of two events, each an hour long, starting at 1pm and 2:30pm.  The City Council and Civic Engineers, who lead the Council’s design team for this phase of the Avenues project, will be presenting initial design principles at the events and seeking feedback. You’ll also be able to see and comment on the initial designs online at www.glasgow.gov.uk/avenues from Tuesday 22nd July (closing date for comment is Sunday 18th August). There’ll be similar events about initial design ideas for Cathedral Street on Tuesday 3rd September in Townhead Village Hall – keep an eye out for the invitation. The work is part of the transformational £115m ‘Avenues’ city centre public realm project funded by the Glasgow City Region City Deal, which will change the face of the city for the better for all those who live, work and visit. The Avenues project will see key Glasgow city-centre streets redesigned to protect and prioritise space for cyclists and pedestrians, improve connectivity, introduce sustainable green infrastructure through attractive streetscapes and enhancing biodiversity, and improve the way public transport is accommodated.  Places at the events are free but limited. Please book now to get your place! ”

Now that nice, wide cycleway on the photo above, taken from the original invitation, might not look to have much separating it from the roadway, but we think there’s a kerb there, and we’ll be sure to check that out on 06 August.

GoBike will be represented at this event, and at the 03 September event. Do note that these are not drop-in events so if you can’t spare the full hour, you will be able to view the information and respond on line.

2.3 Glasgow, Pollok Country Park – Project Update and Public Consultation Event, 22 August

Earlier this year, in February, 2 GoBike members attended a meeting with Glasgow Life to hear about initial proposals for Pollok Park. We have now, 19 July, received this message and invitation:

“I hope you’re both well. I’m writing to update you on the progress of the Transforming Pollok Country Park project.

The update is as follows:

Thank you for previously engaging with us on access proposals for Pollok Country Park. Details of the proposals and current progress can be found in the briefing note attached.

As mentioned, these proposals will form the subject of a planning application and we are now moving towards submitting a Proposal of Application Notice in the week commencing 22^nd July. A consultation event will take place at Pollokshaws Library on the 22^nd August from 12 noon – 8pm which you are welcome to attend and will allow the opportunity for comments.

I’ll note that the proposed new entrance at Haggs Road is primarily intended to bring cars and buses in through a more direct route, while cyclists would be encouraged to enter the park via the Pollokshaws Road entrance or St Andrews Drive entrance.

If you have any queries please get in touch.

Kind Regards,
Project Officer, Glasgow Life”

The briefing note attached to the email is here. Do get yourself along to Pollokshaws Library on 22 August if you can to see the exciting proposals.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 SPT and East Dunbartonshire, Lenzie Station Improvements

We heard about station improvements from one of our member’s Twitter feed, with this link to the SPT website: http://www.spt.co.uk/corporate/2019/07/lenzie-station-improvements-welcomed/
2 of the improvements listed refer to cycling:

• Upgraded traffic lights – including dedicated cycle phase
• Improved cycle facilities

So now that we can store our bikes at Lenzie Station and cycle in and out during the new cycle phase, perhaps we’ll get dedicated cycle lanes through the town?

The consultation phase for the project started in 2016, before GoBike was actively getting East Dunbartonshire proposals, but we are always keen to hear about consultations in the wider Glasgow area, so do keep us informed at consultations@gobike.org please.

3.2 Glasgow, Ladyloan Avenue Traffic Calming Scheme, GCC response to GoBike submission.

In Digest 37, Item 1.3, the details of this proposal were published and on 03 July we returned this response.
The City Council have now replied, with this email received on 19 July:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF MICHAEL BRADY, GROUP MANAGER (TRAFFIC AND ROAD SAFETY), NEIGHBOURHOODS & SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Ms Fort,
Thank you for your undernoted email and attached letter of 3 July 2019 regarding the proposed traffic calming for Ladyloan Avenue.

I am pleased to note that GoBike are in favour of the pilot School Car Free Zone project which the Council is introducing as an experimental traffic regulation order at 6 schools in Glasgow. Depending on the success of this pilot scheme, it is anticipated similar prohibitions of driving near other schools throughout the Council area will be introduced in the future.

While I acknowledge that some cyclists will seek to avoid the cushions, this will not always be the case, and the gradient on this section of Ladyloan Avenue renders it unlikely that roadside detritus will accumulate. 

Though no traffic census has been carried out at this location, I would expect current bicycle numbers on Ladyloan Avenue to be low tending to negligible. Therefore speed reduction measures such the proposed cushions can only have a beneficial impact on the number of cyclists.  Furthermore, reduced speeds are likely to make the journey to and from school more attractive to other active road users such as pedestrians and those using scooters and, in doing so, reduce the number of journeys made by car.

It can reasonably be considered that introduction of cycle lanes and reduction of the space available to motor vehicles at this location would lead to motor vehicles having to come to rest then accelerate again, leading to increased fuel usage with attendant polluting consequences.

I trust that the foregoing explains some of the reasons for introducing speed cushions on Ladyloan Avenue.”

So, now you know, some of us enjoy cycling over speed cushions and the installation of cycle lanes would increase pollution! However, on the brighter side, we are getting more responses from the City Council than we used to, and they contain more detail than we used to be given.

3.3 Glasgow Airport Investment Area (GAIA) Construction Update

Received just yesterday, a link to what’s going on around Glasgow Airport.


Here’s the main news from the link:

“Construction includes significant improved connections:

• Abbotsinch Road is being realigned, upgraded and extended, with accompanying pedestrian and cyclelanes to create a gateway route through Netherton Campus.
• A two-lane bridge for pedestrians, cyclists and commercial traffic across the White Cart from anapproach road off Arran Avenue to Wright Street. The bridge includes a connection into Wright Streetbusiness premises, with no through route along Wright Street for vehicles. This will reduce the impactof traffic on residential areas and the bridge will also connect with the proposed Paisley to Renfrewcycle route, currently under development.
• A pedestrian and cycle bridge over the Black Cart, connecting Abbotsinch Road to Greenock Road.
• New and improved junctions and connections to existing cycleways and pathways.

Construction works start in July 2019 and are scheduled for completion in early 2021. 

Some interesting news to peruse above and consultation events to go to, to brighten up your summer.
The Digest will be back in 2 weeks with whatever lands in the inbox before then.

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. Battlefield design proposals, on-line consultation, closes 14 June
2. Denmark Street, Possil, no waiting and loading at any time, closes 18 June
3. Sunnybank Street, Dalmarnock, traffic calming, closes 20 June
4. Garscube Road, parking and loading restrictions to allow construction of 2-way cycle lanes, closes 12 July
5. Future Policy Development of Taxi and Private Hire Car Licensing, closes 29 July

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. Safer Streets Pollokshields, Drop-in event Monday 17 June
2. St Enoch area consultation expected to be out on Friday 14 June

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. University Avenue consultations, GoBike responses and feedback on Campus Development meeting held 28 May
2. Laurieston 20mph proposal, Glasgow City Council response to our support for the proposal.
3. (City Centre)(Traffic Management) Order 2010 (Variation No24)(Bus Priority) Order 2019

Section 1: Current Consultations, in date order for responses

1.1 Battlefield design proposals, on-line consultation, closes 14 June

There’s plenty of room on Grange Road, above, and Langside Road to connect the South City Way to Battlefield so please do respond to Sustrans’ request for comments on the proposals on-line

Here’s the message that we received from Emily Gait of Sustrans on 04 June:

“Thank you to everyone who has got involved in the Battlefield Street Design project so far. I’m emailing to let you know we have design ideas for the next area of the project which are open today for public feedback.
During March we asked for your comments on the design proposals for Battlefield Rest, Battlefield Road, Mount Florida, Queen’s Drive and the Monument. The feedback and comments from this public consultation will help develop and refine the concept design which will be presented again next month at our next public event where we’ll be outlining the next steps for the project.
Design proposals open for the northern project area
In the meantime we have been focusing on the northern project area and specifically the connection between Battlefield and the city centre. Following on from the feedback and comments we’ve received from the public so far we have created design ideas along Grange Road and Langside Road which include cycle segregation and look at improving pavement widths, bus stop locations and simplifying junctions.
Leave your feedback online
From today until 14^th June the designs are available online for public feedback and comments. Follow this link to view the designs –

https://battlefieldproposals.commonplace.is/overview and please share this with anyone else you think maybe interested.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions at all.
Best regards,
Emily
Emily Gait
Community Engagement Officer | Street Design
Sustrans Scotland | Rosebery House | 9 Haymarket Terrace | Edinburgh | EH12 5EZ
07766 577774 | emily.gait@sustrans.org.uk“

1.2 Denmark Street, Possil, no waiting and loading at any time, closes 18 June

Denmark Street in Possil does not seem to be a cycle route but why not? Cycling is a cheap form of transport and would be just the thing to get people to the community centre on the right of the photo. Apparently, though, there is obstructive parking that puts pedestrians in danger, so Glasgow City Council propose to bring in “No waiting and no loading/unloading at any time” restrictions. Two questions come to mind:

1. Will they be enforced? We don’t see much sign of enforcement elsewhere.
2. Why aren’t cycle lanes being constructed?

Here’s the email that GoBike received on 28 May:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF ANDY WADDELL, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Sir / Madam,
THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (DENMARK STREET), (TRAFFIC REGULATION) 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 grounds for objection in writing to Andy Waddell, Director of Operations, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability, Exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX or by e-mail to land@glasgow.gov.uk  by Tuesday 18 June 2019.
Yours faithfully “
etc.

These are the documents referred to: Press Notice, Plan, Statement of Reason and Report.

This is one that GoBike will be supporting but we will point out the shortsightedness of the proposals.

1.3 Sunnybank Street, Dalmarnock, traffic calming, closes 20 June

Here’s a street that has a roadway and a footway, but where’s the cycleway? Not far from NCN75 and Cuningar Loop and the new housing development built for the Commonwealth Games in Dalmarnock has no cycling provision. Can you believe it? Course you can, it’s Glasgow. Never too late, though and there is plenty of room to get cycle lanes in before there is any more development – or is there?

Here’s the email that we got on 31 May from the City Council, proposing traffic calming – yes, more speed cushions:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF ANDY WADDELL, HEAD OF INFRASTRUCTURE AND ENVIRONMENT, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Sir / Madam

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL (Sunnybank Street) Traffic Calming Scheme 20__

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, especially around the area of the new primary school.

Roads affected by the proposed Scheme. The list of roads affected by these proposals are:-
·        Sunnybank Street

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

• 5 sets of 1.9m x 1.9m, 75mm high speed cushions

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 Jordan Tracey on 0141 287 9173.
Should the Council proceed with these proposals; I will write to you again and confirm this.
Yours faithfully”
etc

So how counter-intuitive is that? A new development, a new primary school and no provision for active travel! We have just responded to consultation on road closures around 6 primary schools in other parts of the city and here’s a new school with planning measures now being taken to restrain those parents who choose to take their children by car.
The new school is being built on the east side of Sunnybank Street between Springfield Road and Auckland Wynd.

Here are the documents provided by the City Council: Plan and Spec.

GoBike will be opposing this measure and suggesting that measures be taken to restrict car use and to definitely construct good cycle facilities.

That was written before Rachel submitted this screenshot of the entrance to Sunnybank Street from Springfield Road:

So what is happening here? This view clearly shows that only buses, taxis and cycles are allowed into the northern part of Sunnybank Street!

This picture taken at approximately 16:45 on 12 June, shows the south end of the bus gate – shame about the road sign – that runs between Garvald Street and Springfield Road. While your Digest author was at the site numerous vehicle drivers ignored the signage – at one point 4 vehicles, 2 in each direction were on this short length of road, while others obeyed the signage. One driver turned back to inform your author, who was taking photos with a mobile phone, that this hasn’t been a bus lane since 2014! How kind, but how curious.

Prior to submission of the GoBike response, a check on the status of this signage will be made with Glasgow City Council, but either way, if 50% or so of vehicles ignore the signage, what is the point of it? If it is no longer valid it should be removed; if it is still valid it should be enforced.

If you live in the area, or have an interest, do please get in touch with the local councillors, or write into

1.4 Garscube Road, parking and loading restrictions to allow construction of 2-way cycle lanes, closes 12 July

We now have a proposal for a two-way cycle lane on the east side of Garscube Road (to the right on the photo above) from Firhill Road to Dobbies Loan. Here’s the email that GoBike received on 31 May:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF ANDY WADDELL, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Sir / Madam

The Glasgow City Council (Garscube Road) (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 Group Manager, Sustainable Transport, Exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX or by email to land@glasgow.gov.uk by Friday, 12 July 2019.
Yours faithfully”

Here are the documents referred to in the email: Press Notice, Relevant Map 1of 2, Relevant Map 2 of 2, Statement of Reasons and Detailed Report.

This is one that we will be supporting, although we do wish there would be a one-directional cycle lane each side. We will, though, be looking carefully at the plans to ensure they don’t repeat any concerns from elsewhere.

1.5 Future Policy Development of Taxi and Private Hire Car Licensing, closes 29 July

This is one that we heard about from a Community Council contact but you might be interested in the Future Policy Development of the vehicles you so often share an Advanced Cycle Box with?

Here’s the message that we received on 11 June:

“Message and attachment sent on behalf of Glasgow City Council’s Licensing and Regulatory Committee:
Glasgow City Council’s Licensing and Regulatory Committee
Future Policy Development of Taxi and Private Hire Car Licensing

Glasgow City Council’s Licensing and Regulatory Committee‘s consultation on the future policy development of taxi and private hire car licensing in Glasgow is now live. The Licensing and Regulatory Committee would be interested to hear views. The consultation document can be viewed using the link below:  
Consultation link to the Future Policy Development of Taxi and Private Hire Car Licensing:  https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/consultations

Please note that the consultation will close on Monday 29 July 2019 so all responses must be received by this date.“

This is the document that was attached to the message. GoBike has not yet determined its view on this but please do contact us if you consider there are critical points to raise.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

2.1 Safer Streets Pollokshields, Drop-in event Monday 17 June

Bill Fraser, GoBike member, Pollokshields Community Councillor and chair of the Pollokshields Trust tells us that the local community has:
” funding approval from Sustrans for this project. We also have the necessary endorsement from GCC.
The attached proposal lists the objectives of the programme although this phase is principally a data gathering and opinion gathering exercise:

– Reduce dangerous driving behaviour within the area
– Facilitating safer walking and cycling
– Provide safer crossing points for pedestrians
– Create culture where active travel is given priority over car travel

We would appreciate Go Bike input based on your campaigning elsewhere:

The point of this research is to ensure it is holistic, remains community-led and contributes to the emerging Pollokshields Local Plan whose development has been funded by Making Places plus a live plan for Asset Transfer of a major piece of land as a Community Common. You can read about our progress so far on www.markmakers.org.uk . Subject to more funding scheduled for Summer 2019 we will complete this site’s refurbishment as an active community space by 2020-21.

Look forward to your input.
Best wishes
Bill Fraser
Chair, The Pollokshields Trust
A charity registered in Scotland (no.SC047413)“

2.2 St Enoch area consultation expected to be out on Friday 14 June

According to the Evening Times on 11 June, we can expect proposals for the regeneration of the St Enoch Area from the riverside to Argyle Street to be available from Friday!

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 University Avenue consultations, GoBike responses and details of Campus Development meeting held 28 May

In our Consultation Extra last Friday, 07 June, we published the 2 letters we have written in response to the 2 consultations for University Avenue.
This is the letter we sent in support of the proposal for 20mph and this is the objection we submitted to the proposal for waiting and loading restrictions and painted uphill cycle lanes.

Euan was one of the GoBike attendees at the Campus Development meeting held by Glasgow University on 28 May and has sent this short summary: ” It would appear the new campus will be accessible to cycles but unlikely to form a primary route. Their position on University Avenue remains unchanged: primarily for passing private motor traffic. “
Here are some images from the presentation given by the University:

3.2 Laurieston Phase 2 20mph Speed Limit Order 201_

We submitted our qualified letter of support for this proposal on 28 June. The closing date for the consultation was 07 June but already on 31 May we received this reply from Glasgow City Council:

MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF MICHAEL BRADY, GROUP MANAGER – TRAFFIC AND ROAD SAFETY, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Miss Fort,

Thank you for your undernoted email and your support for the proposed 20mph zone as part of the Laurieston Phase 2 development.
With regard to your comment about introducing a mandatory 20mph zone throughout the city, I can advise that there is currently a bill being considered by the Scottish Parliament to reduce the speed limit on restricted roads from 30mph to 20mph. Restricted roads are normally street-lit urban or residential streets, although there are some exemptions to this. If this bill is passed into law, it would then set then a default mandatory speed limit of 20mph on restricted roads. Under current legislation, Local Authorities do have the ability to change the speed limit of roads to 20mph, however this has to be carried out on a road by road basis and as you can imagine is resource intensive.
I can advise that the enforcement of the permitted speed limit on a public road, be it 20mph or otherwise, is the responsibility of Police Scotland, not the local authority.

I trust the above information is of assistance, however, should you require any further information please contact (name and phone number deleted by GoBike)

Michael Brady, Group Manager – Traffic and Road Safety, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability“

Just notice that very traditional salutation! That apart, it will be interesting to see Glasgow City Council’s reaction to the outcome of the 20mph default urban speed limit bill currently going through the Scottish Parliament.

3.3 (City Centre)(Traffic Management) Order 2010 (Variation No24)(Bus Priority) Order 2019

Back in November last year, in Digest 22, in Item 1.5, we detailed consultation on Oswald Street (north of Midland Street) and Union Street plus parking changes that impinge on the contraflow cycle lane on West Nile Street. Here’s the letter of qualified support that we submitted.

We have now, 11 June, received this reply:

MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF ANDY WADDELL, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Ms Fort

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (CITY CENTRE)(TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT) ORDER 2010, (VARIATION No24)(BUS PRIORITY) ORDER 2019

I refer to your support of the above named Traffic Regulation Order on behalf of Go Bike 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 the 3rd June 2019 and an advert was placed in the Evening Times on 6th June 2019 stating that the Traffic Regulation Order has been made.

Should you require any further information on the above named Order please contact my assistant (name and contact phone number removed by GoBike).

Yours sincerely“
etc

So no improvements to the original proposals to actively encourage cycling but at least there should be fewer cars for those of us who do cycle in the vicinity of Central Station.

That’s it for now, but let’s hope that Mark Ruskell’s bill for a default 20mph limit is successful this week.

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. TODAY, University of Glasgow Campus Development Meeting, 28 May 18:00hrs
2. Glasgow (School Streets, Glasgow) (Prohibition of Motor Vehicles) (Experimental Traffic Regulation) Order 201_. closes TOMORROW, 29 May
3. Glasgow Climate Change Survey, closes 31 May
4. East Dunbartonshire Council, Order – West Chapelton Avenue & Crescent, Bearsden – No Waiting & No Loading Restrictions, closes 03 June
5. Glasgow, Laurieston Phase 2 20mph Speed Limit Order 20_, closes 07 June
6. Glasgow, Laurieston Phase 2 Trafffic Regulation Order 20_, Waiting and Loading, closes 07 June
7. Glasgow, University Avenue and University Place, Traffic Regulation and Parking Controls, Order 201_, closes 07 June
8. Glasgow, University Avenue and University Place, 20mph Speed Limit Zone, Order 201_ closes 07 June

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. Glasgow, Battlefield, on-line public consultation 04 – 14 June and drop-in event (invitation only!) 06 June

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Glasgow, Battlefield ongoing design works – update
2. Workplace Parking Levy, outcome of recent consultation
3. Glasgow, City Centre Congestion Improvement response

Section 1: Current Consultations, in date order for response

1.1 TODAY, University of Glasgow Campus Development Meeting, 28 May 18:00hrs

This was noted in Digest 34, Item 1.2, which you should check for the full details, but here are the essentials:
Venue: Wolfson Medical Building (Yudowitz Seminar Room 1) on University Avenue.
Time: 18:00 – 20:00
Tickets: not required, but attendees were asked to register via Eventbrite. Here’s the link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/campus-development-public-engagement-evening-tickets-61683780849?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

1.2 Glasgow (School Streets, Glasgow) (Prohibition of Motor Vehicles) (Experimental Traffic Regulation) Order 201_. closes TOMORROW, 29 May

Digest 34, Item 1.3 gives all the details for the proposed road closures around the time of the school day start and finish times for the 6 schools to be included in the pilot: Bankhead, Broomhill, Hillhead, Lourdes, Our Lady of the Rosary and St Blane’s. If you wish to comment then please email saferparking@glasgow.gov.uk. GoBike’s letter of support is here.
This is a good move by Glasgow City Council to cut down on the so-called “school run”, depriving children of a bit of fresh air and exercise on their journey to and from school. If you have time before tomorrow afternoon, please do write in to add your support – but perhaps send your email to landservices@glasgow.gov.uk since the safer parking email failed when the GoBike letter was sent in!

1.3 Glasgow Climate Change Survey, closes 31 May

Final chance this week to respond to this survey from Glasgow City Council. There’s lots of room for you to put your views in so do please get typing!

1.4 East Dunbartonshire Council, Order – West Chapelton Avenue & Crescent, Bearsden – No Waiting & No Loading Restrictions, closes 03 June.

Details were in Digest 34, Item 1.5 and here are the documents from East Dunbartonshire: Traffic Order and Plans. If you wish to comment then write to: The Chief Solicitor & Monitoring Officer, Legal Services, 12 Strathkelvin Place, Kirkintilloch, G66 1TJ and you may email your comments in to: Fiona.Stirling@eastdunbarton.gov.uk

Here’s GoBike’s letter of support.

1.5 Glasgow, Laurieston Phase 2 20mph Speed Limit Order 20_, closes 07 June

Laurieston, to the south of the Clyde, is being redeveloped with some very pleasant-looking housing, as we told you in Digest 34, Item 1.6 and Glasgow City Council, in another piecemeal application of 20mph in the city, propose a 20mph speed limit. Oh that they had the resources to enforce it, but we will be supporting the measure. Here’s our qualified letter of support.

1.6 Glasgow, Laurieston Phase 2 Trafffic Regulation Order 20_, Waiting and Loading, closes 07 June

Item 1.7 in Digest 34 gave all the details for this measure, but there are 2 concerns:

1. There appears to be a dire shortage of people who carry out enforcement of road traffic offences in the city, leading to many, many infringements
2. The official language around parking, waiting and stopping is confusing, as you will have seen if you read our recent blog-post “It’s time for ACTION on University Avenue” so it means that people will stop, but perhaps not wait, or park – but it’s still an obstruction for people cycling or trying to cross the road.

According to one guide this road marking means “You may stop to load, unload or for passengers to get in or out of the vehicle providing there are no signs saying so. Double yellow lines mean that there is to be no waiting at any time unless there are signs that specifically specify seasonal restrictions. “
Confusing or what? No wonder so there are so many lawyers advertising to help drivers accused of road traffic offences.

GoBike is supporting the measure but pointing out our concerns in this letter.

1.7 Glasgow, University Avenue and University Place, Traffic Regulation and Parking Controls, Order 201_, closes 07 June

Our concern about this proposal was given in both Digest 34, Item 1.8 and in our blog-post “It’s time for ACTION on University Avenue” and we will be submitting our objection prior to the 07 June deadline. If you support what GoBike is doing then please add your voice by emailing Andy Waddell, Director of Operations, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability, Glasgow City Council at land@glasgow.gov.uk

Do please sign our petition! It’s at: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/make-university-avenue-safe-for-cycling#signature-form

1.8 Glasgow, University Avenue and University Place, 20mph Speed Limit Zone, Order 201_ closes 07 June

Digest 34, Item 1.9 gave the details of this proposal for another piecemeal 20mph zone in the city and our concerns with this are about both the piecemeal nature of 20mph implementation in the city and enforcement. We will be submitting our letter of grudging support before the closing date, but we do wish drivers would observe traffic regulations – for all our sakes.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

2.1 Glasgow, Battlefield, on-line public consultation 04 – 14 June and drop-in event (invitation only!) 06 June

We tell you below, in the next item, that work is progressing on the design for Battlefield.
On Thursday 6 June Sustrans are inviting “local residents, businesses, and groups who use the area along Langside Road, Grange Road, and Queen’s Drive to attend a focus group at Queen’s Park Bowling Club to view design proposals for this space. The proposals incorporate cycle segregation and look at improving pavement widths, bus stop locations, and simplifying junctions. Please find a postcard invitation attached with further details. The event is between 5 pm until 8 pm where you can drop-in and view the proposed designs and leave your feedback. Refreshments will be available too.
The designs will also be available online for the wider public to comment from 4^th to the 14^th June through the Sustrans project website” – https://battlefieldproposals.commonplace.is/.

DO PLEASE NOTE THAT THE EVENT ON THE 6TH IS FOR LOCAL RESIDENTS etc ONLY – IF YOU LIVE LOCALLY THEN YOU SHOULD HAVE RECEIVED AN INVITATION. The on-line consultation is open to all.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Glasgow, Battlefield ongoing design works – update

The working group, including GoBike member, Eachann, is still meeting to discuss proposals for Battlefield and the southwards continuation of the South City Way. The latest news we have is that Sustrans will now concentrate on Design Option 1, linking Battlefield Rest to the old hospital site, see:
https://battlefieldproposals.commonplace.is/schemes/proposals/battlefield-rest-junction-option-1/details
We are told that “Further design work will also take place on Langside Road and Grange road to connect the South City way with Battlefield. An update on this design work and the engagement around this will be provided at the next meeting.” This meeting will take place in the first week of June.

3.2 Workplace Parking Levy

In Digest 34, Item 1.10, John Finnie, MSP’s request to support the Parking Levy was outlined – hopefully some of you added your voice to the consultation, since it’s now closed. The results are out with almost 3 in 5 of us backing the levy, according to this report:
https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/17654796.almost-three-in-five-back-new-parking-tax-in-holyrood-poll/
However, while John Finnie was concerned about Tory opposition, the same newspaper voices SNP opposition too. Aah, the vagaries of politics, but let’s just hope that we do get some of these motor vehicles off our streets.

3.3 Glasgow, City Centre Congestion Improvement response

Back in February, in Digest 28, Item 1.3 we gave details of Glasgow City Council’s proposals for “Congestion Improvement” (a curious term, but never mind) and we have, in this email of 14 May, received the outcome of their consultation:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF ANDY WADDELL, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Sir / Madam

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (CITY CENTRE) (TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT) ORDER 2010 (VARIATION NO.26) (CONGESTION IMPROVEMENT) ORDER 2019

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 8 May 2019 and an advert was placed in the Evening Times on 13 May 2019 stating that the Traffic Regulation Order has been made.

Please note that the new signage, which will replace the existing signage, may be installed prior to the effective date (Sunday 30 June 2019). However, whilst the new signage would show the existing restrictions applying on a Sunday, enforcement of the new restrictions will not commence until Sunday 30 June 2019 at the earliest.

Should you require any further information on the above named Order please contact my assistant John Telfer on 0141 287 3723.

Yours sincerely” etc

So, who knows, we might get an improved city centre out of this. It’s a step in the right direction, at least.

So, a short issue for you this time but we might be back in business full-time in a fortnight.

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. Glasgow, B759, Cathkin Road, 30mph Speed Limit Regulation Order, closes 21 May
2. University of Glasgow Campus Development Public Engagement Meeting 28 May
3. **NEW** Glasgow, (School Streets, Glasgow) (Prohibition of Motor Vehicles) (Experimental Traffic Regulation) Order 201_ , closes 29 May
4. Glasgow Climate Change Survey, closes 31 May
5. **NEW** East Dunbartonshire Council, Order – West Chapelton Avenue & Crescent, Bearsden – No Waiting & No Loading Restrictions, closes 03 June
6. **NEW** Glasgow, Laurieston Phase 2 20mph Speed Limit Order 20__, closes 07
   June
7. **NEW** Glasgow, Laurieston Phase 2 Traffic Regulation Order 20__ , Waiting and Loading, closes 07 June
8. **NEW** Glasgow, University Avenue and University Place, Traffic Regulation and Parking Controls, Order 201_ , closes 07 June
9. **NEW** Glasgow, University Avenue and University Place, 20mph Speed Limit Zone, Order 201_
10. “URGENT – Don’t let the Tories sabotage this!” Workplace Parking Levy, request from John Finnie MSP, with no closing date but do please act SOON

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. Active travel friendly streets, Glasgow southside (and many other places) – we wish!
2. East Renfrewshire, Improvements for Safer Cycling on Ayr Road – hopefully

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Glasgow/South Lanarkshire, Toryglen survey – Urban Roots reply to the GoBike response
2. Experience the Hitachi Class 385 Event – 8 May 2019
3. Glasgow, Connecting Woodside updates, 08 May and 16 May
4. Glasgow, Heathcot Avenue, Drumchapel, Traffic Regulation Order, one way.
5. Glasgow, “Quiet Way”, Langside to Muirend
6. Bottle Deposit Scheme approved

Section 1: Current Consultations, in date order for response

1.1 Glasgow, B759, Cathkin Road, 30mph Speed Limit Regulation Order, closes 21 May

This first featured in our previous issue, Digest 33, Item 1.5 and the proposal is to reduce the speed limit to 30mph since housing is going to be constructed in this pleasant, open countryside.
The documents issued with the Order are: Advert, Plan, Statement of Reasons and Report.
This is one that GoBike will be supporting and we suggest that if you cycle along here or are thinking of buying a house here that you also add your voice of support.

1.2 University of Glasgow Campus Development Public Engagement Meeting 28 May

Lots of news further down about Glasgow University and University Avenue, but here’s an email that a GoBike member sent on to us and that we eventually also had come in direct:

“From: Nicholas Wade <Nick.Wade@glasgow.ac.uk>
Date: 13 May 2019 at 16:18:50 BST
To: Undisclosed recipients:;
Subject:Campus Development – public engagement meeting – 28 MAY 2019

RE: UNIVERSITY OF GLASGOW CAMPUS DEVELOPMENT PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT MEETING – 28 MAY 2019

Dear neighbour, 

The University will host its next public engagement meeting on the evening of 28 May to allow members of the public the opportunity to learn more about our Campus Development Programme.
As you will be aware these meetings take place every six months, with the last one being held in November.

The event will be held in the Wolfson Medical Building (Yudowitz Seminar Room 1) on University Avenue, from 18:00 – 20:00.

It will offer the chance to hear more about recent progress on the site of the former Western Infirmary site, as well as the James McCune Smith Learning Hub and public spaces around campus.

We will also keep you informed with regards to key work upcoming over the next few months.
The event will feature presentations from the University’s project managers as well as the main contractors on the programme, Multiplex.

We anticipate covering the following subjects, however there will be opportunity to ask questions.

• Current and upcoming work on buildings under development;
• Infrastructure update, including upcoming demolition work on the former Western Infirmary site;
• Work currently taking place on roads, including University Place and University Avenue.

Please arrive ready for a 18:00 start, refreshments (teas and coffees) will be available.

Tickets are not required for this event, however we do ask people to register via Eventbrite in advance, so we have an idea of numbers.

If you have questions, or would like to discuss any aspect of the Campus Development, please do not hesitate to get in touch via campus-development@glasgow.ac.uk

Regards,

Ann Allen MBE
Executive Director of Estates
University of Glasgow”

So that’s an invitation that might be hard to refuse! Since apparently, meetings are held every 6 months, one wonders why GoBike has found it so hard to get information about what has been going on.

1.3 **NEW** Glasgow, (School Streets, Glasgow) (Prohibition of Motor Vehicles) (Experimental Traffic Regulation) Order 201_ , closes 29 May

It’s very sad that such measures are needed, but far too many people drive their children to school and park inconsiderately and dangerously. To address this, to reduce pollution at school gates and to encourage children to get a bit of exercise, Glasgow City Council have introduced this experimental Order. Yes, it’s currently limited to only six schools out of all those in the city but as a pilot, it’s a start. Let’s hope that it’s a success.

Here’s the email that we got from the City Council on 07 May:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF ANDY WADDELL
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Sir or Madam,

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (SCHOOL STREETS, GLASGOW) (PROHIBITION OF MOTOR VEHICLES) (EXPERIMENTAL TRAFFIC REGULATION) 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 grounds for objection in writing to Andy Waddell, Director of Operations, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability, Exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX or by e-mail to saferparking@glasgow.gov.uk by 29^th May 2019.

Yours faithfully,” etc

This is the most positive thing we have seen coming out of the “Safer Parking” group at the City Council and we’ll be supporting it, but will certainly be asking why it’s so little and why it’s taken so long. Here are the documents that were issued with the proposal: Advert, Draft Report, Statement of Reasons, Plan 1, Bankhead, Plan 2, Broomhill, Plan 3, Hillhead, Plan 4, Lourdes, Plan 5, Our Lady of the Rosary and Plan 6, St Blane’s

Here’s a link to the reasoning behind the scheme from the Council’s website:
https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/schoolcarfreezones

Do please write in to let Andy Waddell know your views, particularly if you live near one of these schools, travel past one of them or your child/children attends one of them.

1.4 Glasgow Climate Change Survey, closes 31 May

We introduced this survey in Digest 32, Item 1.6, with suggestions for completion from Extinction Rebellion, in Digest 33, Item 1.6 again, we gave you a few further suggestions but now you have had time to mull over the Connectivity Commission’s report, so there’s plenty to go on. Do please complete the survey.

1.5 **NEW** East Dunbartonshire Council, Order – West Chapelton Avenue & Crescent, Bearsden – No Waiting & No Loading Restrictions, closes 03 June

We received this message from East Dunbartonshire Council on 01 May:

“Dear Patricia
PROPOSED: The East Dunbartonshire Council (West Chapelton Avenue and West Chapelton Crescent, Bearsden) (No Waiting and No Loading at Any Time Restrictions) Order.
The Council is promoting the above mentioned Traffic Regulation Order. Attached is a copy of the draft Order and plans together with a copy of the Notice which is to appear in either the edition of the Milngavie and Bearsden Herald which is published on 3 May 2019. Should you wish to comment on the proposal you must do so in writing by Monday, 3 June 2019. Your comments should be sent to Chief Solicitor & Monitoring Officer, Legal Services, 12 Strathkelvin Place, Kirkintilloch, G66 1TJ. Also included is a copy of the maps in relation to the previous Orders which is to amended. The Traffic Regulations Order itself is a large document and the maps represent what is contained in the Order. A full copy of the Order that is to be amended can be provided if requested.
Fiona Stirling
Legal Services
East Dunbartonshire Council Headquarters
Southbank Marina 12 Strathkelvin Place Kirkintilloch G66 1TJ”

These are the two documents that were attached: Traffic Order and Plans

This is one that we will be supporting since roads are primarily for the passage of road traffic, and parked vehicles cause a hazard for people cycling or trying to cross the road. If you know the area well and have any comments do let us know, please.

1.6 **NEW** Glasgow, Laurieston Phase 2 20mph Speed Limit Order 20__, closes 07 June

You might have noticed that Laurieston is being redeveloped and the housing Phase 2 construction is now under way. Although we only hear whispers of cycling provision, there is, of course, room to have a car in the area. Oh, do motor vehicles go too fast for comfort? The City Council is proposing yet another 20mph zone. Why is it always so piecemeal (and only very rarely enforced)? Here’s the email that we received on 10 May:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF ANDY WADDELL
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Sir or Madam,
THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (Laurieston Phase 2) (20mph Speed Limit) Order 20__
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 grounds for objection in writing to Andy Waddell, Director of Operations, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability, Exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX or by e-mail to land@glasgow.gov.uk by 07 June 2019.
Yours Faithfully, etc”

The attachments that were sent are: Press Notice/Advert, Statement of Reasons, Draft Report and Plan

GoBike will be supporting this proposal – we just wish the City Council had fully enacted GoBike member, Bob Downie’s petition to the City Council in 2015 to have 20mph as the default speed limit in the city.

1.7 **NEW** Glasgow, Laurieston Phase 2 Traffic Regulation Order 20__ , Waiting and Loading, closes 07 June

In conjunction with the previous item, Glasgow City Council is actively planning for an increase in traffic in Laurieston! Yes, some of the new residents might actually need a car, but overall, with proper active travel planning, with walkways and cycleways and local amenities such as schools and shops, this increase should be negligible. We received this email from the City Council on 13 May:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF ANDY WADDELL, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS,
NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Sir or Madam,
THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (Laurieston Phase 2) (Traffic Regulation) Order 20__
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 grounds for objection in writing to Andy Waddell, Director of Operations, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability, Exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX or by e-mail to land@glasgow.gov.uk by 07 June 2019.
Yours faithfully,” etc

The documents attached are these: Press Notice, Map/Plan, Statement of Reasons and Report
GoBike will be supporting this proposal but we will be adding our concerns at this failure to actively plan to reduce motor traffic and pollution. Where’s the Climate Emergency when you need it??

1.8 **NEW** Glasgow, University Avenue and University Place, Traffic Regulation and Parking Controls, Order 201_ , closes 07 June

And in the second double act of this Digest we have, at last, some consultation on University Avenue It’s all been done behind closed doors up to now, but here’s the first TRO email we received from Glasgow City Council on 09 May:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF ANDY WADDELL, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS,
NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Sir or Madam,

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (UNIVERSITY AVENUE AND UNIVERSITY PLACE)
(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 plan (drawing 5230-001), statement of reasons and detailed report.

A copy of the draft order, the plan, statement of reasons and report for proposing to make the order are available for inspection at the following locations:

Reception, Exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX
Hillhead Library, 348 Byres Road, Glasgow, G12 8AP
Details of the proposals for the traffic regulation and parking controls 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 Andy Waddell, Director of Operations, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability, House, Glasgow City Council, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX or by e-mail to land@glasgow.gov.uk by 7^th June 2019.

Yours faithfully” etc

The documents referred to are the press notice of the proposed Order, relevant plan (drawing 5230-001), statement of reasons and detailed report.

As you might well be aware by now, we are not happy with the proposals for the painted cycle lanes that do not prevent parking and we propose to object. The “Colleges Cycle Route”, from the city centre to Jordanhill, once lauded as a premier cycle facility in Glasgow is being downgraded with these proposals. In these days of an accepted Climate Emergency, painted cycle routes everywhere should be upgraded to separated, not downgraded. We are asking other organisations to also object to this TRO.

Please also sign our 38 degrees petition that has just been launched!

1.9 **NEW** Glasgow, University Avenue and University Place, 20mph Speed Limit Zone, Order 201_, closes 07 June

Here we have yet another piecemeal approach to reducing traffic speeds in Glasgow but it’s one that we will of course, support, and hope that it is enforced.

This is the email that we received from the City Council on 09 May:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF ANDY WADDELL, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS,
NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Sir or Madam,

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (UNIVERSITY AVENUE AND UNIVERSITY PLACE)
(20MPH SPEED LIMIT ZONE) 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 plan (drawing 5230-002), statement of reasons and detailed report.

A copy of the draft order, the plan, statement of reasons and report for proposing to make the order are available for inspection at the following locations:
Reception, Exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX
Hillhead Library, 348 Byres Road, Glasgow, G12 8AP

Details of the 20mph speed limit zone 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 Andy Waddell, Director of Operations, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability, House, Glasgow City Council, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX or by e-mail to land@glasgow.gov.uk by 7^th June 2019.

Yours faithfully” etc

The documents referred to are: the press notice of the proposed Order, relevant plan (drawing 5230-002), statement of reasons and detailed report.

Please do add your voice of support to this speed limit reduction.

1.10 “URGENT – Don’t let the Tories sabotage this!” Workplace Parking Levy, request from John Finnie MSP, with no closing date but do please act SOON

Here’s a message, received 16 May, sent to people who have expressed support for actions proposed/supported by the Scottish Green Party, from John Finnie, MSP. It’s a short, easy survey, so do please respond to help get some of these cars off our streets.

_{Don’t let theTories bury the parking levy}

“Dear ,

A Committee of MSPs are asking for views on the workplace parking levy and whether it could help cut congestion and fight climate change.

_{Please respond and show your support!}

Councils in England have the power to introduce workplace parking levies to help transform cities. Nottingham has done exactly that, raising millions of pounds for public transport, reducing congestion and slashing emissions.

We’re facing a climate emergency, and 2,500 people die every year as a result of toxic air pollution, so it would be great if Scotland’s Councils had the same power, right?

_{Respond now}

That’s why the Greens secured a commitment from the Scottish Government to give Councils this power as part of our Budget deal last year. This is a policy that could be used by our biggest cities to tackle air pollution and climate change, and Edinburgh have already said they’d like to use the power. Incredibly, however, the Tories, Lib Dems and Labour ganged up and threw the toys out of the pram. They say they get climate change, but at the whiff of political advantage they drop their principles.

A Committee in the Scottish Parliament have now launched a short online survey asking for public views on the proposal. Already the Tories are all over it, desperately trying to whip up hysteria and opposition to this modest policy that will only help in the fight against climate change.

Please help us restore balance and reason to this debate and show your support for the policy now. It takes just a minute, and your response will make all the difference.

Yours
JohnFinnieMSP

Respond to the consultation now”

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

2.1 Active travel friendly streets, Glasgow southside (and many other places) – we wish!

On Sunday 05 May Andy Preece led the monthly GoBike ride out via Pollokshields, Queen’s Park and the “Langside to Muirend” Quiet Way (see Item 3.5 below) before heading off to East Kilbride and other parts of South Lanarkshire. En route we went along streets, such as the one shown above, that were effectively linear car parks. With cars parked just about bumper to bumper, with hardly space for a fire engine to get through, nowhere for children to play, very narrow footways and no sign of cycle contraflow, these streets are far from being “Living Streets”. Let’s hope, for the sake of us all that we get meaningful consultation to make such streets active travel friendly.

2.2 East Renfrewshire, Improvements for Safer Cycling on Ayr Road – hopefully

Hope you didn’t miss all the fun and excitement of Pedal on Parliament 25 – 27th April? One of the events was the Ayr Road hill climb race, where cars parked in the painted cycle lane were fliered with mock parking tickets.

There was then an exchange of emails between GoBike and East Renfrewshire council with a promising outcome:

“From: Convenor [mailto:convenor@gobike.org] Sent: 27 April 2019 18:59
To: *Roads <*roads@eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk>
Cc: Convenor <convenor@gobike.org>; <consultations@gobike.org>
Subject: Improvements for Safer Cycling on Ayr Road

Dear East Ren Roads Dept,

You may be aware of a cycling protest that happened on Ayr Road on Saturday as a part of a weekend of Pedal on Parliament events.

https://www.gobike.org/east-renfrewshire-protest-was-just-the-ticket-8333

We flyered cars with the attached leaflet in an attempt to highlight the dangers that parking in the advisory lanes on Ayr Road cause to people on bikes. To help ease the problem we would like to ask East Renfrewshire council to make the cycle lanes physically segregated or at the very least to consider changing the status of the lanes to mandatory in order to allow for parking enforcement, and that the double yellow lines stretch the ful length of the road. Currently the double yellow lines painted on short sections of the road are actually leading to more parking as they appear to suggest to drivers that sections without double yellows are OK to park in. We were disappointed to see the removal of the previous Urban Clearway status of the lanes and have noticed a sharp increase in the incidence of parking on the lanes since then. Our ideal, which we would also ask you consider, would be to see physical segregation for the lanes which would create an even better level of safety for people cycling and would allow for many people who don’t currently want to cycle due to road danger, the option of choosing active travel.

We would also like to highlight the issue of the layout of the painted cycle lane at the junction of Davieland Road. Currently the design encourages people travelling north (downhill) to remain on the far left of the road even if travelling straight on. This creates increased risk of left hook collisions. We would like to see the road markings changed to encourage people on bikes to the right of left turning vehicles when heading straight on.

The cycle lanes that exist on Ayr Road are the one almost safe haven for cycling that there is in East Renfrewshire. Although they are only painted lanes they are a good width in comparison to other cycle lanes in Glasgow, and are used by a large number of people on bikes. We would like to see East Ren Council show greater support for active travel and consider our improvement proposals.

Thank you and we look forward to hearing from you.

Iona”

Here’s the supportive reply from East Renfrewshire’s Green Network Project Officer:

Dear Iona,
Thank you very much for your email dated 27 April 2019 highlighting cycling safety concerns along Ayr Road.

I have spoken to our Transportation Coordinator and we recognise the issues raised through the recent protest and note the points in your correspondence below.

Although there are no immediate changes proposed, East Renfrewshire Council (ERC) are currently progressing a Sustrans Community Links PLUS (CL+) application in order to secure funding and commitment for protected cycling provision and improved public realm along the A77 road corridor. Unfortunately we are unsure whether these proposals will be supported by Sustrans and/or the ERC Environment Department, however I hope to be in a position to update you by July/August 2019.

Should we be unsuccessful in our CL+ proposal we will endeavour to explore alternative options, such as those highlighted in your email below, to improve the cycling experience and support active travel along the A77 corridor.
Many thanks for your representations on the matter.
Kind regards

John Shelton
Green Network Project Officer”

If you live in East Ren or cycle along the Ayr Road, please do write in to John and /or your Councillors to support the GoBike proposals.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Glasgow/South Lanarkshire, Toryglen survey – Urban Roots reply to the GoBike response

In Digest 33, Item 1.1, we reported on the Urban Roots proposals for North Toryglen and included the letter of support we sent. We were delighted to get this prompt response: ” This is great, much appreciated! Best wishes Gemma “

Let’s hope they can bring it to fruition.

3.2 Experience the Hitachi Class 385 Event – 8 May 2019

Through Glasgow City Council’s Active Travel Forum, GoBike were invited to Lanark on 08 May to view the new trains being operated by ScotRail and about to be introduced on the route out to Lanark. These trains are already operating on other routes, including the Glasgow to Edinburgh via Falkirk line, so some of you may have seen them already, but Tricia and George went along to see the space available for bikes. It’s more than some of the older units but not as much as the Class 380s that have been operating on the lines down to the Ayr coast.

3.3 Glasgow, Connecting Woodside updates, 08 May and 16 May

Those of you who have been to the Connecting Woodside events might well be receiving these updates direct but here’s the latest, issued on 08 May.

And here’s the link, sent out on 16 May, to a series of Canal Workshops , with a photo of new art work being completed by the woman sorting her equipment to the left of the mural. The photo was taken on Saturday 11 May during the Bromptonites tour of street art in North-West Glasgow.
The 2 hour workshops were held on 14 May, with 2 more to be held on 18 and 21 May.

3.4 Glasgow, Heathcot Avenue, Drumchapel, Traffic Regulation Order, one way.

The consultation on the change from two way to one way for Heathcot Avenue featured in Digest 29, Item 1.2 and you might remember that we consider that the default of two way cycling should be permitted here. That, yet again, is not Glasgow City Council’s view. Here’s their email of 10 May:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF ANDY WADDELL, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Sir or Madam,

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (HEATHCOT AVENUE), (TRAFFIC REGULATION) ORDER 201_

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. 

This Order will:

• Improve road safety by removing potential driving conflicts, and associated reversing manoeuvres, through implementing a single directional flow of traffic.
• Improve road and pedestrian safety by prohibiting vehicles from parking at obstructive or inconsiderate locations.
• Improve pedestrian safety by increasing visibility at pedestrian crossing points.

The Order was made on 10 May 2019 and an advert was placed in the Evening Times on 13 May 2019 stating that the Traffic Regulation Order has been made.
The earliest date the parking controls will come into force will be 24 June 2019.

I realise that this may not be the outcome you wished for, however Glasgow City Council’s Local Transport Strategy includes a high level objective within Improving Road Safety.
Should you require any further information on the above named Order please contact my assistant (details removed)

Yours sincerely” etc

Thus it becomes increasingly clear that the inclusion of active travel measures, particularly the maintenance and improvement of permeability for cycling, is not one that is routinely considered in traffic schemes within the City Council. This is yet another opportunity lost to get people out on their bikes.

3.5 Glasgow, “Quiet Way”, Langside to Muirend

Some years ago GoBike members and others who attended the Glasgow Cycle Forum were invited to view and comment on a proposal for a “quiet way” to link Langside to Muirend. On the GoBike ride of 05 May we had the opportunity to experience this “quiet way”. What is it, you might well be asking? It’s the painted white line cycle lanes that run along Langside Drive from near Langside Railway Station and, annoyingly, stop 100 metres or so short of Muirend Railway Station, ie just where the road narrows as it goes over the railway bridge, and where a cycle lane (protected) is needest most. And guess what? Cars are sometimes parked on the cycle lanes! So come on Glasgow City Council – you can do better to get people cycling.

3.6 Bottle Deposit Scheme approved

Some good news to end on. You will have heard from the media that the bottle deposit scheme has been approved. So that’s more cash for the weans and fewer punctures for us as bottles are returned, rather than discarded. Here’s the BBC link and this is a link to the results of the public consultation – hope many of you responded?

That’s a bumper bundle for you to peruse and hopefully get tapping on your keyboard to respond. All being well, your next Digest will be with you on Tuesday 28 May.

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. Connecting Woodside Phase 2 Consultation event TODAY, on-line consultation closes 03 March
2. Renfrewshire, cycle lane from Renfrew to the Glasgow boundary at Shieldhall, consultation events 26 and 27 February.
3. **NEW** Glasgow City Centre Congestion Improvement, closes 08 March
4. **NEW** Glasgow Heathcot Avenue, Drumchapel, proposed one-way operation, closes 08 March
5. **NEW** Transport Scotland A830 Shlatach Road over Rail Bridge, Glenfinnan, reconstruction, closes 14 March.
6. **NEW** Strathclyde Passenger Transport (SPT) Regional Transport Strategy – Public Survey, closes 20 March
7. North Lanarkshire Council Local Development Plan, closes 05 April
8. *Hoped for revival* Glasgow Jura Street proposed cycle lane construction, in abeyance!

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. Glasgow Byres Road Design Workshop 06 March

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. North Lanarkshire Council Residents Parking Scheme to be introduced
2. Glasgow, University Avenue, meeting 14 February
3. East Dunbartonshire Council, High Street Kirkintilloch, no waiting restrictions to be introduced.
4. Glasgow Sauchiehall Street and Elmbank Street one-way, GoBike to attend local Community Council meeting this evening.
5. GoBike meeting with Urban Roots, Toryglen project

Section 1: Current Consultations in date order for responses

1.1 Connecting Woodside Phase 2 Consultation event TODAY, on-line consultation closes 03 March

The first Stage 2 Consultation event was held last week, 11 February, focusing on North Woodside Road where concern was expressed about traffic speeds, proposed measures to reduce speeds with speed tables, and gaps to allow bikes through, and will the City Council bow to what seems to be a Transport Scotland dislike for zebra crossings?
Today’s event focuses on St George’s Road and Charing Cross, so it will be interesting to see how cycle traffic will be able to access St George’s Road from North Street, Sauchiehall Street to the west of Charing Cross and to the east, and how the junction into Woodlands Road will work.

Here’s a section of the information we gave two weeks ago that refers to today and the on-line consultation:
“Woodside Library (St George’s Road) on Tuesday 19th February, 3-7pm, focusing on St Georges Road and Charing Cross
Information on North Woodside Road and St George’s Road will be available at both consultations, so feel free to drop into either one.
Can’t come along to either event? Then you can view all the consultation materials here, and you can leave your comments on our Commonplace map here by Sunday 3rd March 2019.
We look forward to seeing you there and hearing what you have to say about the next stage of this exciting project!”

1.2 Renfrewshire, cycle lane from Renfrew to the Glasgow boundary at Shieldhall, consultation events 26 and 27 February.

News just in from Renfrewshire Council:

“Good Afternoon
Renfrewshire Council is proposing to provide a new high-quality cycle route, segregated from traffic, between Renfrew Town Centre and the Glasgow City Council boundary. The proposed route, which forms part of Renfrewshire Council’s Cycle Strategy, is well-used, but requires dedicated space to provide a safe, convenient and fully segregated route, to encourage people to cycle.

A map of the route and further details regarding the scheme can be seen here.

Local Transport Projects Ltd, on behalf of Renfrewshire Council, are developing designs for this new cycle route & would like to know the views of those who might use the route, might be affected by the development, or would like to offer any feedback regarding the project. An online consultation is now underway: https://renfrewcycling.commonplace.is/. Please have a look, comment and let us know your views. Please do also share this email to your local networks, to give as many people as possible the chance to have their say.
We are also holding two local public consultation events for people to pop along to, view plans, offer feedback and find out more. Full details here or on the leaflet attached.

Clare Shepherd
Technical Assistant (Accounts)
Local Transport Projects Ltd.
Armstrong House,
The Flemingate Centre,
Armstrong Way,
Beverley,
HU17 0NW.
01482 679911
www.local-transport-projects.co.uk

LTP provide traffic engineering and transport planning services across the UK, with offices in Beverley and Manchester. Find out more at http://www.local-transport-projects.co.uk/contacts/new
renfrewcycling.commonplace.is
Have your say on the new Renfrew cycle route!
We want to make it safer for cyclists to use this popular route, reduce traffic congestion and increase the network of cycling routes in Renfrewshire.

The drop-in consultation events will be held at:

Tues 26th February: Renfrew High School, Gym Hall 6pm – 10pm

Weds 27th February: Renfrew Town Hall, Committee Room 11am – 8pm

Can’t make it? Click on “Have your say!” and let us know your views.

We love the look of the drawings but there’s a major question for Glasgow City Council coming out of this of course, and that is how to get round the Shieldhall Roundabout and on into the city?!

1.3 **NEW** Glasgow City Centre Congestion Improvement, closes 08 March

Here’s the email that we received on 15 February from Glasgow City Council:


Dear Sir / Madam
THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL,(CITY CENTRE) (TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT) ORDER 2010,(VARIATION NO 26) (CONGESTION IMPROVEMENT) 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 maps, 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, Director of Operations, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability, Exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX or by email to congestionimprovement@glasgow.gov.uk by Friday 8 March 2019.

Yours faithfully

Andy Waddell, Director of Operations, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability

Most of the 14 documents attached to the email refer to taxi rank locations and, if you wish to see them, you may look at the City Council’s website. The plan of the area affected is below and the report is here.

There is some strange language in the report, eg “In view of …. the lack of parking availability on a Sunday within the City Centre, it is considered necessary to extend a number of existing waiting and loading restrictions to include Sunday as well as extend parking charges to include Sunday.
In addition to this, increasing on-road parking availability on a Sunday will improve traffic flow within the City Centre and have a positive effect on environmental issues such as air quality by encouraging the use of more sustainable methods of transport. These proposals would also encourage the use of off-street parking options if driving into the City Centre and likely reduce any time spent driving around the City Centre roads for those looking for an available on-street parking space.”
It’s not clear how extending parking restrictions increases on-road parking availability, but extending parking charges to include Sundays is a step in the right direction.

GoBike will be supporting these proposals. Please add your voice too.

1.4 **NEW** Glasgow Heathcot Avenue, Drumchapel, proposed one-way operation, closes 08 March

GoBike was sent this email on 08 February:

“Dear Sir or Madam,
THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (HEATHCOT AVENUE)
(TRAFFIC REGULATION) 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 grounds for objection in writing to Andy Waddell, Director of Operations, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability, Exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX or by e-mail to land@glasgow.gov.uk by 8^th March 2019.
Yours faithfully

Andy Waddell, Director of Operations,Neighbourhoods and Sustainability”

The attached documents are the Press Notice, the Plan, the Statement of Reasons and the Draft Report.

GoBike has concerns about this. While we understand that the City Council wish to improve road safety, and we fully support the control of on-street parking, we know that traffic speeds will increase once the Avenue is made one-way. We are also aware that there are no on-road cycle facilities in Drumchapel at all and, for their personal safety, people learning to cycle, or returning to cycling, use the footways rather than the roadway. It is unacceptable that this is the only provision for these people and thus we will be pressing the Council to implement their default policy of maintaining two-way cycling even if reducing motor traffic to one-way.

1.5 **NEW** Transport Scotland A830 Shlatach Road over Rail Bridge, Glenfinnan, reconstruction, closes 14 March.

Transport Scotland propose to renew a bridge over the Fort William to Mallaig railway line just to the north-west of the well-known Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Here’s the email we got on 24 January:

“ROADS (SCOTLAND) ACT 1984

THE A830 TRUNK ROAD (SHLATACH RAIL BRIDGE REPLACEMENT) (SIDE ROADS) ORDER 201[ ]
THE A830 TRUNK ROAD (SHLATACH RAIL BRIDGE REPLACEMENT) (TRUNKING) ORDER 201[ ]
The Scottish Ministers propose to make the above-named Orders under ections 12(1), (5) and 70(1) of the Roads (Scotland) Act 1984 stopping up the public right of passage over certain lengths of road, and under section 5(2) of the Roads (Scotland) Act 1984 construct a trunk road over certain lengths of road as described in the Schedules to the Orders.
I therefore attach a copy of the Orders, together with the relevant plans, Public Notices and Notice of Determination for your information.
The Public Notices will be published in the Oban Times and West Highland Times and The Herald on Thursday 31st January and in the Edinburgh Gazette on Friday 1st February 2019.
Yours faithfully,

Transport Scotland have a somewhat formal approach to the wording of their documents but a recent phone call to their offices elicited the information below, once of course having explained that GoBike does recognise that the Strathclyde boundary lies somewhere well to the south of Glenfinnan, but some of our more adventurous members do cycle this far afield.
The bridge superstructure is being replaced because it is life-expired but the opportunity is being taken to widen the roadway slightly, to straighten the road a little, thus improving sight lines, and to raise the bridge parapets to the current stamdard 1.5m height. The roadway will be a total width of 8m, comprising 6m carriageway and two 1m hard strips, with a further 1.5m verge at each side. This, providing the 1m strips are kept clear of s**t and grit, does not present a reduction in cycle facility, in fact improves things slightly and we have emailed Transport Scotland to confirm this view. A web link to the proposals is here.

1.6 **NEW** Strathclyde Passenger Transport (SPT) Regional Transport Strategy – Public Survey, closes 20 March

Here’s a super wee survey from SPT – we’d been led to expect one way back in November, with a report in Digest 22, Item 2.2 and here it is. Do please spend a few minutes to complete it. Let’s look forward to our walking, cycling and public transport getting better.

1.7 North Lanarkshire Council Local Development Plan, closes 05 April

All you out there in North Lanarkshire, do let us, and North Lanarkshire Council know your views. We haven’t had time yet but we will peruse the plan for active travel content.

1.8 *Hoped for revival* Glasgow Jura Street proposed cycle lane construction, in abeyance!

GoBike notified you that there was consultation upcoming for Jura Street in our Digest 3, Section 2, last year. The consultation event planned for the end of February 2018 was postponed because of the bad weather at the time, but we attended the rescheduled event at the end of March and our response was in Digest 6, item 1.4
We now hear, from Calum, who’s a member of the local Community Council , that there is renewed interest in the project, but a phone call to a member of the design team at the City Council this morning told us that one of the funding streams is no longer available and the project was shelved because of local opposition. The information on the Council’s website has been amended to suit, with only last year’s information available, see this link. Let’s hope that renewed interest from the Community Council augurs well for active travel in this part of the city.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

2.1 Glasgow Byres Road Design Workshop 06 March

Further to the meeting on 20 December that GoBike and Space for People Byres Road attended with Glasgow City Council representatives, (see Digest 25 items 2.2 and 3.4) we had been expecting that a Traffic Regulation Order would have been issued by now. This hasn’t yet happened, but we have now been invited to another Design Workshop to be held on 06 March. We’ll let you know what we find out.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 North Lanarkshire Council Residents Parking Scheme to be introduced

We have only just started to receive consultation information from North Lanarkshire, but here’s the result of an earlier consultation, which we welcome:

3.2 Glasgow, University Avenue, meeting 14 February

GoBike is far from happy with what we hear about proposals for University Avenue, as you will have seen from our letter to the university and council, our protest and our resultant media appearances.

We are grateful to Councillor Martha Wardrop, who forwarded this information she had received from the university:

“From 4 March, the University will begin work to make University Avenue a safer and more useable environment. You may recall for those who attended that this was discussed at the last community engagement meeting, held in November.
These changes are important to ensure our students staff and residents can continue to use the Avenue safely.
It is important that this work is undertaken in time to accommodate the higher footfalls that will follow with the opening of the new learning and teaching hub; the first project to be completed in our £1 billion campus development. As part of our capital investment programme, we are also committed to place making and improving the look and feel of the urban realm.
We want to make sure that we take this opportunity to create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone, and balance the requirements of pedestrians, cyclists, users of public transport and drivers of vehicles.
The first stage of these plans is to build two new wider pedestrians crossings- often referred to a “super crossings”. These are wider crossing points which means larger numbers of pedestrians can cross at any one time and help ensure safe crossings of pedestrians but still support the flow of cycles and cars through the Avenue.
They better manage significant pedestrian flows, keeping people safer. Later in the programme, we will resurface the road and footpaths, install better street lighting, install bespoke street furniture and plant more trees. 

You can find out more about our plans for University Avenue on our website.

In developing our Campus Development Framework and Masterplan, which set the overall place-making vision, we latterly undertook a period of public consultation and detailed discussion with Glasgow City Council and other key stakeholders. We also identified a number of measures which will make the Avenue safer for cyclists.
When we resurface the road, we will formalise 1.5 meter wide cycle lanes on the uphill portions of the road, better delineating them with solid lines and coloured surfacing. We believe that these measures, together with the removal of on-street parking and the reduction of the speed limit on the Avenue to 20mph, will make optimum use of the limited space available.
As part of our sustainability and wellbeing plans, we are keen to encourage cycling and are investing heavily in cycle parking on the campus.
We did consider options for segregating the cycle lanes and providing full-length cycle lanes on both sides of the road as part of our development process. However, it was concluded that there is not enough space to provide segregated cycle lanes as well as footpaths and bus stops which are wide enough to safely accommodate the number of pedestrians this area will receive. We appreciate that some cycling lobby groups would want us to do more for cyclists, and we appreciate their views. We can however only do this at the expense of the pavement and keeping our pedestrians safe.
As you will appreciate as this is a major route for pedestrian movement of our 35,000 staff and students and, where we sadly experienced a fatality in 2018, we are keen to ensure safe movement of pedestrians.  
We will continue to engage with all parties during the construction delivery of the works on University Avenue in order to achieve a significant improvement to current conditions for everyone.”

Further to our demonstration on 10 February we were invited to a meeting on 14 February at the university. Our Co-Convenor, John, attended, along with Euan and Iain from Space for People Byres Road and a host of people who are working on the plans. John submitted these questions in advance of the meeting:

“Please see below a few questions that we would be grateful if you could get answered for us.

1. Is Glasgow University carrying out the work On University Avenue by way of Planning Gain?
2. Did Glasgow City Council advise what was required for the road design? (Questions 3-5 assume Yes to this question)
3. What date the council informed you of requirements?
4. Was this advice either in writing or by reference to Planning Guidelines?
5. Which department and officer provide this guidance?
6. What are the current traffic levels on University Avenue?
7. What traffic reduction level they are the University looking for?
8. What quantitative research has been carried out on cycle traffic on University Avenue? Could this be shared with us?
9. Does the University have a target for growth in cycling and what is this?
10. When will the Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) Public Notice for University Avenue be published?

Finally could you please share the scope and timescale of the public consultation on University Avenue, including details of: who was notified about any events; any surveys carried out; if any online consultation was held.”

At the meeting with representatives of the project we were disappointed to find that the University remain steadfast in their view that painted lanes on only one side of the road will make conditions safer for cycling. John has responded with the following letter, and we will continue to attempt to find out more information from the council. The road is an adopted highway and so also their responsibility.

“Thank you and your colleagues for taking the time to meet with us last week.

Unfortunately, I came away from the meeting with the feeling that there is a lack of understanding of what constitutes safe cycling, as well as how bad University Avenue currently is for those who use a bike as a means of transport.

The changes that will be made to the footpaths, to improve the safety for pedestrians, is welcome by GoBike. To make explicitly clear, GoBike is not looking to take away space designated for pedestrians. This is about the reprioritisation of University Avenue to provide safe space for those using bikes for transport, as per both the Scottish Government and Glasgow City Council’s transport hierarchy.

As pointed out during the meeting, the changes that you are proposing will not make the road any safer for cycling, than the current measures in place. The removal of on road parking spaces, along university Avenue, are welcome. However, with only painted lines, demarcating the cycle lane, there is nothing to stop vehicles from parking on the cycle lane. This was demonstrated, in the photo taken prior to the meeting, to already takes place on the current painted lanes.

Highway code Rule 163 states that a driver should “give motorcyclists, cyclists and horse riders at least as much room as you would when overtaking a car”. Narrowing of the carriageways, as proposed, while putting in only painted cycle lanes will legitimises close passes of those on bikes on University Avenue.

The reduction of the speed from 30mph to 20mph is welcome, though will also have limited impacted on cycle safety in your current design. The average speed on University Avenue will already be close to this. While, due to University Avenue being a hill, the average speed of cyclists is much lower than 20mph.

It was indicated during the meeting that drivers are often going in excess of 30mph on University Avenue. It is requested that this is taken up with Police Scotland as a matter of urgency. For a 20mph limit to be successful it would also need to be rigorously enforced.

When asked why GoBike had not been engaged earlier in the process it was pointed out that the University had not heard of the group until 2 weeks prior to the meeting. This is disappointing as, it would have been expected, as part of the consultation process, that the University would have actively tried to identify key stakeholders. A google search of “Glasgow Cycle Campaign” would have been all that was required.

Being that the University remain steadfast in their view that the changes to University Avenue will be made safer for cycling, could you let us know which independent active travel groups you consulted to back that view?

As discussed, we are liaising with the local councillors as well as being in communication with Glasgow City Council. We are particularly keen to find out: how these designs were allowed through without safe cycling provision, particularly when both LES and DRS were cognisant of the situation on Byres Road; as well as how the plans for University Avenue were given council approval without meaningful public consultation, compared to similar schemes elsewhere in the city.

I look forward to your response to our earlier questions, as well as the supplemental question above.”

We have since had good news in from the trade union, Unite, at the University of Glasgow, who have contacted us in support of our campaign. Their members voted in favour of a motion to support our campaign for segregated cycle lanes, and they have proposed to also contact the university to back our position.

We continue to work on having these plans improved, but if you work, live, study or commute through University Avenue, please add your own support by contacting your local councillors with your own support for better active travel provision on the currently dangerous street.

3.3 East Dunbartonshire Council, High Street Kirkintilloch, no waiting restrictions to be introduced.

Last May, before we started to receive consultation information from East Dunbartonshire, it was proposed to ban waiting at any time on the High Street in Kirkintilloch. Here’s a copy of the Order, which comes into force in May this year. This should improve the environment for people walking and cycling.

3.4 Glasgow Sauchiehall Street and Elmbank Street one-way, GoBike to attend local Community Council meeting this evening.

GoBike’s concern about the lack of access from Bath Street to Sauchiehall Street has been completely ignored by the City Council, with the member of staff responsible for making Elmbank Street, shown above, one-way southbound for cars with no contraflow for bikes, saying that it is “out with the scope of this amendment to the Traffic Regulation Order” to get people on bikes from Charing Cross Railway Station to Sauchiehall Street.

On Tuesday evening our Co-Convenor, John, and Tricia will be attending a meeting of the Blythswood and Broomielaw Community Council to ask them to help establish a robust cycle route from the King’s Theatre to Sauchiehall Street that does not entail cycling in three lanes of traffic over the M8 and back again, or on the footway. We’ll report back in the next Digest.

3.5 Toryglen Greenspace and Active Travel Design Project, meeting 13 February

Co-Convenor, Iona, had a positive one-to-one consultation with Gemma from Urban Roots, who is leading on the Toryglen Greenspace and Active Travel Design Project. There was a public consultation back in November (see Digest 23, item 1.6 for details) and they are now engaging more closely with stakeholders of which we are one. The project is progressing well and Iona was shown some designs that haven’t gone public yet, for the green space and travel corridors. These are looking very promising – as well as a through route to Rutherglen, the wildlife reserves, wetland and allotments in the area could see this area becoming very like the Cuningar Loop. The long term vision for North Toryglen could see a green corridor stretching from Queens Park to North Toryglen via Cathkin Park. This first stage of design has been funded partly via Sustrans and they are now going forward for the next stage of funding with another stage of public consultation coming up.

Urban Roots are still consulting on the first phase via their online map but haven’t been getting very much local engagement. We’d encourage you to take a look and add some thoughts if you can. We have word that Camglen Bike Town may be taking their guided bike rides past the site if you fancy having a look on two wheels. More information about the project can be found here, and the online consultation map is here.

That’s it for this fortnight, but lots to keep you busy and we will have another package of actions from the powers that be in two weeks.