Contents:

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. **NEW** Glasgow, Road Satisfaction on-line survey, closes ??
2. Glasgow, Belmont Traffic Management Order 2005 (Variation No. 2) 20__-Publication of Proposals, closes 29 November
3. East Dunbartonshire, Proposed Traffic Regulation Order – A81 Milngavie Road and Maryhill Road Redetermination of passage to be by Pedal Cycle and foot only, closes 02 December
4. East Renfrewshire, Local Development Plan 2, closes 13 December
5. **NEW** Glasgow, Dalmarnock West TRO parking restrictions, closes 13 December
6. **NEW** Glasgow City Council (Robroyston Station) Traffic Regulation Order 201_ , closes 13 December
7. East Dunbartonshire, Proposed Traffic Regulation Order and road humps – Maxwell Avenue Area, Bearsden, closes 16 December
8. **NEW** South Lanarkshire, Stewartfield Way proposed upgrade, closes 20 December
9. **NEW** Glasgow, Finnieston Bridge taxis and authorised vehicles to use bus and cycle lanes TRO, closes 03 January 2020
10. Law Commission, Highly Automated Road Passenger Services, HARPS, public consultation, closes 16 January 2020
11. **NEW** Glasgow, City Centre Strategic Development Framework, closes 17 January 2020

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. Scottish Government, Strategic Transport Projects Review (STPR2)

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Glasgow, Elmbank Street, we have found an alternative route!
2. East Dunbartonshire, Proposed Traffic Regulation Order – Lenzie Waiting Restrictions
3. Glasgow, Bob Downie’s petition to keep National Cycle Route 75 open through Glasgow Green during events
4. Glasgow, Bob Downie’s petition to bring in a default 20mph speed limit in Glasgow
5. Glasgow, South West City Way at Buchanan Wharf (Clyde Place and West Street), progress!

Section 1: Current Consultations, in date order for responses

1.1 **NEW** Glasgow, Road Satisfaction on-line survey, closes ??

GoBike members Derek and Neil alerted us to this on-line survey. The City Council is looking for residents’ views of the city’s roads. As seems quite standard with these things there is no closing date given, so please try to respond as soon as you can, using this link: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/glasgow-city-2

1.2 Glasgow, Belmont Traffic Management Order 2005 (Variation No. 2) 20__-Publication of Proposals, closes 29 November

The publication of these proposals was reported in Digest 47, Item 1.3 and GoBike fully supports the proposed restriction on parking. We’ll be writing in later this week confirming our support.

1.3 East Dunbartonshire, Proposed Traffic Regulation Order – A81 Milngavie Road and Maryhill Road Redetermination of passage to be by Pedal Cycle and foot only, closes 02 December

These proposals have been in recent Digests, including Digest 47, Item 1.4. While we support protected cycle lanes and are concerned about shared footways, we recognise that for those many people who do not wish to cycle on road with all the single occupancy motor commuters at this busy junction area, these proposals will improve their journey. Our letter of response is here.

1.4 East Renfrewshire, Local Development Plan 2, closes 13 December

This was first mentioned in Digest 47, Item 1.5 and we have now started a new channel on Slack for GoBike members who live, work or have a strong interest in East Renfrewshire active travel. Members have been to the Local Consultation events and are busy finding out the issues and concerns about the Local Development Plan 2. Here’s the link to the document and consultation details. If you would like to get involved, do please contact us. We aim to have a GoBike response ready in good time for 13 December.

1.5 **NEW** Glasgow, Dalmarnock West TRO parking restrictions, closes 13 December

Yes, this is another that we unwittingly published at the Stage 1 Consultation Stage. Our response, given in Digest 46, Item 1.2, one of support, but also concern about parking being displaced across the river, is here. The City Council replied on 12 November with this email:

“THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (DALMARNOCK WEST) (TRAFFIC REGULATION) ORDER 20__

Thank you for your comments on behalf of GoBike, in relation to the above named Traffic Regulation Order (TRO).
I note your comments regarding Shawfield Road and would advise that this falls outwith the Glasgow City boundary and is not included within the above TRO.

However, your comments regarding this and your further comments about the National Cycle Route 75, have been passed to the appropriate team, who will respond to you in due course. 

I trust this is of assistance, however should you require further information please contact my assistant, (Name and phone number removed by GoBike).

Kevin Hamilton, Head of Roads, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability“

The information now put firmly in the public domain and sent to us with this email on 18 November is here:

“THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (DALMARNOCK WEST) (TRAFFIC REGULATION) ORDER 20___

Further to my consultation email of 4^th October 2019 regarding the above named Traffic Regulation Order, and in accordance with statutory procedures, I now enclose a copy of the press notice of the proposed Order, relevant map, statement of reasons, 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 Kevin Hamilton, Head of Roads Neighbourhoods and Sustainability or by e-mail to land@glasgow.gov.uk by 13^th December 2019.

Yours faithfully

Kevin Hamilton, Head of Roads, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability“

Here are the documents referred to in the email: Plan, Press Notice, Draft Report and Statement of Reasons.

GoBike will maintain its support for these proposals but will emphasise the points we made before about Cycle Route 75 and our concern about parking transferring to South Lanarkshire, just across the river. Do write in to the Council if these proposals affect you or you have a view on them.

1.6 Glasgow City Council (Robroyston Station) Traffic Regulation Order 201_ (OFFICIAL), closes 13 December

Stage 1, north of the railway
GoBike received the initial proposals for this scheme, to restrict parking on a new road (not shown on this map) from the M80 (at the roundabout to the north-west of the new station) to the station itself on 28 October 2019. We replied on 19 November with this letter, basically saying that we support the parking restrictions but that cycle lanes should be constructed from Robroyston along this new road to the station.

Here’s the email reply that we received from the City Council on 22 November:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF CHRISTINE FRANCIS, HEAD OF TECHNICAL SERVICES, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Ms Fort,

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (ROBROYSTON STATION), (TRAFFIC REGULATION) ORDER 201_

Thank you for your support of the above named Traffic Regulation Order on behalf of GoBike.
It is intended to provide cycle measures on Station Road to connect to Robroyston Station and this will be subject to future consultation.

I trust this is of assistance, however should you require further information please contact my assistant (name and contact details removed by GoBike).

Yours sincerely” etc

Note the intention to “provide cycle measures”!

Public consultation 2018, south of the railway
This would link in excellently to the proposal we submitted for cycle lanes to be constructed in conjunction with parking restrictions on Station Road Millerston, linking the new station to the A80 Cumbernauld Road last October. Our final mention of that consultation was Item 1.1 in Digest 22. Here’s our letter of support with comments .

For the proposal above, for Station Road, Millerston, it slipped our notice last year that the eastern side of Station Road is in North Lanarkshire, not Glasgow, so residents in the houses on the right-hand side of the road in the photo above might well be plagued by cars left outside their homes once the station opens in a few weeks!

Public Consultation north of the railway
This brings us back to the public consultation for the new road north of the railway and this email that we received on 21 November 2019:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF CHRISTINE FRANCIS, HEAD OF TECHNICAL SERVICES, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Sir/Madam

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (ROBROYSTON STATION), (TRAFFIC REGULATION) ORDER 201_

Further to my consultation email of 28^th October 2019 regarding the above named Traffic Regulation Order, and in accordance with statutory procedures, I now enclose a copy of the press notice of the proposed Order, relevant map, statement of reasons and detailed report. Additional corner protection has been added to the initial draft order at Millersneuk Crescent to ensure safe access for the local community.

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 Group Manager, Technical Services, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability, Exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX or by e-mail to SustainableTransport@glasgow.gov.uk by Friday 13^th December 2019.

Yours faithfully” etc

Here are the documents referred to in the email: Press Notice, map/plan, Report and Statement of Reasons.

We will be repeating our request for cycle lanes on this new road in our response. The overall scheme has the potential of creating good active travel access from Robroyston across to Hogganfield Loch and the Seven Lochs wetland park . The east and north of the city has been neglected so far on the active travel front and this is a chance to address that shortfall. Do please write in to support our suggestion!

For these overall works, ie the new road to the north of the railway, the double yellow lining on all the new road and the west side of Station Road south of the railway plus the east side of Station Road at the railway end – see this plan from last year for the Station Road Millerston proposal, it’s critical that there is liaison between Glasgow City Council and North Lanarkshire! If you live in Glasgow Ward 17, Robroyston, Glasgow Ward 21, North East or North Lanarkshire Ward 5, Stepps, Chryston & Muirhead do please contact your councillors to press on them the need for good cycling provision.

One of the councillors for Ward 17 is Martin McElroy, who briefly oversaw cycling issues in the previous Glasgow administration and spoke at a GoBike AGM a few years ago. He also cycles regularly, so do please contact him if this is your ward.

1.7 East Dunbartonshire, Proposed Traffic Regulation Order and road humps – Maxwell Avenue Area, Bearsden, closes 16 December

This was a new public consultation that we publicised in Digest 47, Item 1.6. We commented on the proposal at the initial stage with a view that the gap at the side of the speed tables should be more than 750mm. This hasn’t been included in the final proposal but we will not object to the scheme overall.

1.8 **NEW** South Lanarkshire, Stewartfield Way proposed upgrade, closes 20 December

GoBike member, Derek, posted this on Slack and all those of you who live, work or travel in East Kilbride please do take notice of this. Here is the link to the proposal, with photos and videos plus details of how to respond.

Derek’s comment on this Stewartfield Way fly through video screenshot is: “Looks like narrow shared path, not primary cycle route as marked in amended network plan. Huge roundabout in background with few crossings.” Certainly, just a quick look at the website link gives the impression that the proposals are to cater for the motor vehicle congestion by building more road, rather than looking for modal change, with the emphasis on public and active travel. Derek gives us another comment, probably from twitter “consultation on dualling. Narrow shared paths, few crossings but now dressed up like it’s primary route in active travel network.”

Do please get your views in – this may be done on-line; see the link given above, and repeated here.

1.9 **NEW** Glasgow, Finnieston Bridge taxis and authorised vehicles to use bus and cycle lanes TRO, closes 03 January 2020

In June 2018 we received the proposals for an experimental TRO to allow taxis and authorised vehicles to use the Finnieston/Clyde Arc/Squinty Bridge for an 18-month period. This was reported in Digest 11, Item 1.8 and we were not happy. Here’s the letter of objection that we submitted on 08 June 2018.

The City Council have apparently decided to make the trial a permanent feature and here’s the email that we received on 25 November:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF CHRISTINE FRANCIS, HEAD OF TECHNICAL SERVICES, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Sir or Madam,

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, FASTLINK ROUTE, (FINNIESTON BRIDGE TO WHITEFIELD ROAD) ORDER 2015, AMENDMENT No.1 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 Projects Manager, Project Management and Design, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability, 231 George Street, Glasgow G1 1RX or by e-mail to land@glasgow.gov.uk by Friday 3^rd January 2020.
Yours faithfully” etc

The documents referred to in the email are here: Press Notice, Map/Plan, Statement of Reasons and Report.

We are unaware of any improvements that have been made to the active travel regime in the area of this bridge and Fastlink overall, but presumably there have been no incidents reported to Police Scotland in the duration of the temporary TRO. No doubt the taxi operators are delighted with the additional road use they have gained! If you have any views on your experience of using this bridge do please email them to consultations@gobike.org so that they may be reflected in our first message of the New Year to the City Council.

1.10 Law Commission, Highly Automated Road Passenger Services, HARPS, public consultation, closes 16 January 2020

This consultation was first given in Digest 46, Item 1.9 and we are hoping that we see the views of those organisations with more insight than us before submitting our response in the New Year. If you do see reviews of this proposal do please send the details to consultations@gobike.org

1.11 **NEW** Glasgow, City Centre Strategic Development Framework, closes 17 January 2020

GoBike member, Pat, alerted us to this latest in the series of Strategic Development Frameworks for Glasgow. Here’s the link to the consultation and we will be reviewing it over the next few weeks. If you have any specific concerns do please let us know.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

2.1 Scottish Government, Strategic Transport Projects Review (STPR2)

CyclingUK in Scotland alerted us to this forthcoming consultation and here’s the email that we got on 18 November:

“Hi campaigners and supporters

What’s on your cycling Christmas list? I’m talking about cycling infrastructure that you want in your area rather than new tyres for your bike or a thicker pair of gloves!

Government and their consultants are right now finalising an online consultation for the Strategic Transport Projects Review (STPR2) – a kind of spending review of major transport projects for the next 20 years. See this set of slides abut STPR2: https://transformscotland.org.uk/wp/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/STPR2-Presentation-1st-May-2018.pdf

The online consultation is a way of gathering ideas for consideration in the spending review. It’s massively important that we use this consultation to say what is needed in Scotland, and use it to give Government confidence that there is support for spending money on cycling infrastructure.

We expect the consultation to be launched this month so do look out for it. I want to give you advanced notice so you can think about how to work with others in your groups, clubs, and networks to develop ideas. I also want to be of assistance in helping you and will provide more information when I know more about the consultation. But please do get in touch if you want to discuss or if you have questions.

This consultation is important – STPR2 will apportion £billions on transport – we need to make the case for sustainable transport loud and clear and tell Government what we want.

Regards

Jim
Jim Densham
Campaigns and Policy Manager – Scotland
Cycling UK in Scotland
Email: jim.densham@cyclinguk.org“

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Glasgow, Elmbank Street, we have found an alternative route!

Regular readers of this Digest will surely remember the fury we vented on Glasgow City Council when, as part of the plans for the Sauchiehall Street Avenue and Cycle Lanes project (which we very much support) it became clear that there was to be no easy way to reach Sauchiehall Street from Elmbank Street and the busy area to the south of Bath Street?
At a stroke the north part of Elmbank Street was made one-way southbound, and why? To allow car parking on either side! Yes, even though there is a multi-storey car park on Elmbank Crescent to the rear of the King’s Theatre. Numerous requests were made to the City Council for details of the cycle route from Bath Street to Sauchiehall Street but, we were told, such detail was outwith the remit of the Sauchiehall Street project.

GoBike member, Derek (and note we have 2 very active members with the first name Derek), has now brought it to our attention that Bath Lane, running south to and parallel to Bath Street has been resurfaced from Elmbank Street to Holland Street. Holland Street, which was made one-way southbound from Sauchiehall Street to Bath Street for the duration of the works, has now reverted to being one-way northbound. Thus there is a feasible route from the two-way section of Elmbank Street, ie via Bath Lane and Holland Street.

This route, of course, is not signposted, so won’t be obvious to the many visitors to our fine city and it does not absolve our City Council of their refusal to allow contraflow cycling and improve permeability for cycle traffic.

3.2 East Dunbartonshire, Proposed Traffic Regulation Order – Lenzie Waiting Restrictions

Back in March we published proposals for parking restrictions in Lenzie and surrounding areas in East Dunbartonshire in Digest 30, Item 1.7. Our response, supporting the proposals was in Digest 31, Item 1.7. East Dunbartonshire have now approved the TRO and here’s the email that we received on 12 November:

“THE EAST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL (LENZIE) (WAITING RESTRICTIONS) ORDER 2019

The above-mentioned Traffic Regulation Orders has now been made and will become effective on Monday, 6 January 2020. Enclosed are copies of the Order and plan, together with copy of the Notice that is to appear in the editions of the Kirkintilloch Herald which is published on 13 November 2019.

(See attached file: 191112 Lenzie Area – Waiting and Loading Restrictions.pdf)

Regards
Fiona Stirling
Legal Services“

3.3 Glasgow, Bob Downie’s petition to keep National Cycle Route 75 open through Glasgow Green during events

As reported in Digest 47, Item 3.2, Bob Downie’s petition was heard by the City Council’s Wellbeing, Empowerment, Community and Citizen Engagement City Policy Committee on 14 November. Here is the Committee Report and the recommendations are:
“After consideration, the committee
(1) agreed that the issues raised in the petition deserved further attention; and
(2) instructed the Executive Director of Neighbourhoods and Sustainability
(a) to implement his proposals
(i) to develop more robust, clear and visible signage directing cyclists and walkers to the alternative route when temporary closures of the National Cycle Route 75 were required;
(ii) to install early warning signs advising of up-coming events;
(iii) to arrange that the alternative route via the South embankment of the River Clyde be reviewed and improvements made to the surface and signage to further enhance the diversion; and
(iv) to ensure that officers engaged directly with affected groups; and
(b) to consider opportunities to consult alongside the major review of events and public parks. “

So far, so good. We’ll let you know if and when we hear any more.

3.4 Glasgow, Bob Downie’s petition to bring in a default 20mph speed limit in Glasgow

Some of you might remember that back in 2015 Bob Downie presented his petition calling for the introduction of a default 20mph speed limit in Glasgow. The petition was well received by Councillors but then fell away and the policy of bit by wee bit was reverted to. Well, a lot has happened since then so we can’t give Bob all the credit but Glasgow City Council has now agreed to roll out a 20 mph limit across the city, see: https://stv.tv/news/west-central/1442576-glasgow-roads-set-for-20mph-speed-limit-over-next-four-years/

This is good news indeed. GoBike has been supporting every new introduction of a 20 limit in the city but has been appalled at the arbitrary nature of these zones, of which there are now over 80. Yes, that’s right, over 80. Goodness knows how much all these have cost both in terms of TROs, signage and, of course collisions, as drivers go too fast for the conditions. It will be good to get some standardisation.

3.5 Glasgow, South West City Way at Buchanan Wharf (Clyde Place and West Street), progress!

GoBike members on Slack will be aware that we have been in correspondence with Fairhurst, the Design Consultant for the Barclays Bank development on Clyde Place, about concerns over the South West City Way. GoBike member, Tor, sent in this photo, which is on her daily commute, because vehicle drivers exiting Riverview Gardens, to the right on the photo, appeared to be taking no cognisance of cycle traffic, particularly if it was coming from their left.

The latest news from Fairhurst, is this email, sent today, 26 November:

“Please find attached our drawing number BWHARF-FHS-IN-XX-DR-D-94-151 C01 which shows changes to the road markings at West St / Riverview Gardens that have been approved by GCC, following consultation with them. The edge of carriageway and centre line markings that go through the cycleway are to be removed to help emphasise that cars are approaching a junction where they are to give way to cyclists. The Council preferred to retain give way lines rather than using a stop line.”

Lots of good news in the feedback in this Digest. Let’s hope that it’s not just a one-off and we have more to tell you in 2 weeks’ time.

So that is the good news from Glasgow City Council and the bad news is contained within Item 3.1, a Parking and One-Way Street issue, but do read on for our list of contents and the wide range of issues that we bring to you in this issue:

Contents:

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. East Dunbartonshire, Draft Local Transport Strategy, closes TODAY, 12 November
2. Glasgow, Queen Margaret Drive cycle lanes, closes 15 November
3. Glasgow, Belmont Traffic Management Order 2005 Variation No.2) 20__ – Publication of Proposals, closes 29 November
4. East Dunbartonshire, Proposed Traffic Regulation Order – A81 Milngavie Road & A81 Maryhill Road Redetermination of passage to be by Pedal Cycle and foot only, closes 02 December
5. **NEW** East Renfrewshire, Local Development Plan 2, closes 13 December
6. **NEW** East Dunbartonshire, Proposed Traffic Regulation Order and road humps – Maxwell Avenue Area, Bearsden, closes 16 December
7. Law Commission Highly Automated Road Passenger Services, HARPS, public consultation, closes 16 January 2020

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. Glasgow, University of Glasgow Campus Development Programme – public meeting, TOMORROW 13 November
2. East Dunbartonshire Active Transport Networking Event, 26 November
3. CyclingUK: “Why the Highway Code should be rewritten ” Forthcoming consultation from the UK Government

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Glasgow, Mount Florida, Parking and One-Way, with no contraflow, discussion
2. Glasgow, Council Hearing for GoBike member, Bob Downie’s petition to keep National Cycle Route 75 through Glasgow Green open during events
3. Glasgow, City Centre, Candleriggs, Traffic Management Order, 2010, Variation 20

Section 1: Current Consultations

1.1 East Dunbartonshire, Draft Local Transport Strategy, closes TODAY, 12 November

This consultation was previously noted in Digest 45, Item 1.7 and Digest 46, Item 1.6. We hope that some of you managed to get along to one of the consultation events that have been held and have responded to the consultation? Here’s the GoBike response drawn up with grateful thanks to GoBike member Dave for his review.

1.2 Glasgow, Queen Margaret Drive cycle lanes, closes 15 November

Details of this consultation were in our last issue, Digest 46, Item 1.7 and our response was in that issue too – we were quick off the mark!
Please do write in if you have views on this proposal, particularly if you support it! It’s important that support for active travel schemes is voiced, to try to drown out the I-need-my-car-to-go-anywhere lobby. It will only take a minute or two to email land@glasgow.gov.uk to say that you fully support the GoBike response.

1.3 Glasgow, Belmont Traffic Management Order 2005 Variation No.2) 20__ – Publication of Proposals, closes 29 November

If you are thinking that you have seen this in our Digests before, then you are absolutely correct. We were sent details under the Stage One Consultees List and inadvertently, because we had not been told of our new status, we published the consultation details as usual.

Here’s the email that the City Council sent to us on 01 November:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF KEVIN HAMILTON, HEAD OF ROADS, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY
Dear Sir or Madam,

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (BELMONT), (TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT) ORDER 2005 (VARIATION NO.2) 20__

Further to my consultation email of 17^TH September 2019 regarding the above named Traffic Regulation Order, and in accordance with statutory procedures, I now enclose a copy of the press notice of the proposed Order, relevant map, statement of reasons, 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 Kevin Hamilton Head of Roads Neighbourhoods and Sustainability or by e-mail to land@glasgow.gov.uk by 29^th November 2019.

Yours faithfully,” etc

Here are the documents listed in the above message: Press Notice, Plan, Statement of Reasons and the Report.

GoBike supported the proposals when we were told about them earlier and we submitted this letter on 15 October. Obstructive and indiscriminate parking of motor vehicles is not something that GoBike can support and we will be repeating our message of support for this TRO.

1.4 East Dunbartonshire, Proposed Traffic Regulation Order – A81 Milngavie Road & A81 Maryhill Road Redetermination of passage to be by Pedal Cycle and foot only, closes 02 December

All the details for this proposal were in Digest 46, Item 1.8 and we have heard from one of our members, John, who commutes through this area. He tells us “I use this route when I cycle to work. It is more pleasant than the main road, if slower.” Another GoBike member, Dave, declines to use it because it is slower, so doesn’t this just prove the case for good cycle infrastructure?

Here’s our letter of response.

1.5 **NEW** East Renfrewshire, Local Development Plan 2, closes 13 December

We heard about this from GoBike member, Meredith and we are still doing some investigation, so if you have any concerns do let us know at consultations@gobike.org Here’s the link to the document and consultation details

1.6 **NEW** East Dunbartonshire, Proposed Traffic Regulation Order and road humps – Maxwell Avenue Area, Bearsden, closes 16 December

Here’s the email that we received on 08 November from East Dunbartonshire and, again, you might think you have seen this before! We responded to what was apparently the Stage 1 consultation back in January as reported in Digest 27, Item 3.4

“The Council is promoting a Traffic Regulation Order which would introduce a 20 mph speed limit zone in the Maxwell Avenue area of Bearsden and five round top road humps on Maxwell Avenue.
Enclosed are copies of the draft Order, plan and Statement of Reasons for the Traffic Order and the Plan of the location of the humps, together with copies of the Notices that are to appear in the Milngavie & Bearsden Herald which is published on 15 November 2019.
Should you wish to comment on the proposal you must do so in writing by Monday, 16 December 2019. Your comments should be sent to Chief Solicitor & Monitoring Officer, Legal Services, 12 Strathkelvin Place, Kirkintilloch, G66 1TJ.

(See attached file: 191104 Maxwell Ave Area proposed 20 mph zone.pdf)
(See attached file: 191107 Maxwell Avenue – Notice & Plan.pdf) “

It’s unfortunate that we weren’t clearly informed of this distinction, but we did generally approve the proposals, with one concern, we would prefer to see more than a 750mm gap either end of the the speed tables to allow clear passage for all cycles. While we don’t like speed tables we will not be objecting to this scheme.

1.7 Law Commission Highly Automated Road Passenger Services, HARPS, public consultation, closes 16 January 2020

Details of this UK Government consultation were published in Digest 46, Item 1.9 and repeated here is the last part of the email we received:

“We invite you to respond to the paper by 16 January 2020. We have set up an online portal for submitting responses but welcome input in any format. If you have ideas for consultation events or would like a meeting please get in touch.

The consultation paper, summary and details for how to respond are available on our project page at https://www.lawcom.gov.uk/project/automated-vehicles/ 

Yours sincerely,

Automated Vehicles Team – Law Commissions“

GoBike will be reviewing the document but if you do have any views on these automated vehicles do please let us know at consultations@gobike.org

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

2.1 Glasgow, University of Glasgow Campus Development Programme – public meeting, TOMORROW 13 November

This meeting was publicised in our last Digest, Digest 46, Item 2.2 and here is a further copy of the email that was sent out:

“From: Internal Communications <communications@glasgow.ac.uk>
Date: 22 October 2019 at 12:50:48 BST
To: Internal Communications <communications@glasgow.ac.uk>
Subject:University of Glasgow Campus Development Programme – public meeting

The University of Glasgow will hold a public meeting on Wednesday 13 November to update about progress on its Campus Development Programme.

The event will be held in the Wolfson Medical Building (Gannochy Room), from 18:30 – 20:00. You can register to attend through Eventbrite.

The meeting is open to the public and will focus on the ongoing and upcoming work taking place on the Gilmorehill campus, particularly on the site of the former Western Infirmary.

The agenda includes presentations from University project managers, as well as construction partners.

We intend to update on the following areas, however there will also be the opportunity for questions.

1. Infrastructure on University Avenue, University Place, and future demolitions along Church Street;
2. Construction update for the James McCune Smith Learning Hub and the Research Hub;
3. Overview of planning and final design for the Clarice Pears Building (Institute of Health & Wellbeing);
4. Planning and anticipated programme for the Adam Smith Business School and landscaping for the Southern Gateway;
5. A look inside the James McCune Smith Learning Hub, the Research Hub, including community facilities;
6. Community benefits;
7. Q&A.

Due to a busy agenda, please note the event will start at 18:30 prompt. Refreshments are available in the Atrium of the Wolfson Medical School Building from 18:00.

Tickets are not required, however attendees are encouraged to register, so that we have an indication of numbers. 

For those who have attended these meeting before, the Gannochy Room is next to the lecture theatre where the sessions are usually held.

Please direct queries to campus-development@glasgow.ac.uk“

Do get to the meeting if you have an interest in what’s happening at the University.

2.2 East Dunbartonshire Active Transport Networking Event, 26 November

GoBike received this invitation from CyclingUK on 31 October:

“Cycling UK would like to invite you to their Community Cycling and Active Transport Networking Event

It would be great if you could join us from 4pm – 6pm on Tuesday 26^th November at Hillhead Community Centre
169 Meiklehill Road, Kirkintilloch, G66 2JT

You can register for this FREE event at the following link:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cycling-uk-community-networking-event-2019-east-dunbartonshire-tickets-79515467905

This event is for anyone with an interest in walking and cycling in East Dunbartonshire.  We hope to bring together representatives from East Dunbartonshire Council, Cycling UK,  local grassroots cycling groups, community cycling organisations, organisations that hosted Big Bike Revival events and Cycling UK affiliated and Member groups.  Our aim is to discuss cycling and walking provision in the area and look at improving infrastructure and opportunities.  

Attendees can expect:

– A warm welcome with refreshments.
– Introduction from Cycling UK
– Speakers from East Dunbartonshire Council and local cycling organisations
– Potential new local cycling opportunities
– Interactive sessions to share knowledge and ideas
– Opportunities to network and get involved

Please share with your friends and networks, as well as any walking and/or paths groups who might be interested in shared initiatives. 

I look forward to seeing you there!

If you are unable to make it to the event but would like to take part in future events and discussions then please feel free to drop me a line
Many thanks and best regards

Eileen

Eileen Hamill
Development Officer – Big Bike Revival Glasgow and West of Scotland
Cycling UK
Email:eileen.hamill@cyclinguk.org
Web: www.cyclinguk.org“

This is a great opportunity for GoBike members to find out what is happening in East Dunbartonshire, so do get along if you can.

2.3 CyclingUK: “Why the Highway Code should be rewritten ” Forthcoming consultation from the UK Government

All those of us who are Cycling UK members probably received the weekly “Cycle Clips” email on Friday 08 November and within it is this article about a forthcoming review of the HIghway Code:

“Many people have the view that the Highway Code is largely irrelevant and with 307 rules plus annexes, it’s just too long, nobody reads it once they’ve passed their test and few people know the rules. Cycling UK Head of Campaigns Duncan Dollimore explains why the Highway Code needs to be rewritten so that it helps to protect vulnerable road users and can promote active travel.

It is to be hoped that this review takes place soon and is well informed by the active travel movement.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Glasgow, Mount Florida, Parking and One-Way, with no contraflow, discussion

This conversation, by email, with Glasgow City Council, has been going on for some time and centres on 2 issues. One is the FACT that one-way streets with no cycle contraflow cut down access/permeability for cycle traffic, and secondly, the FALLACY that businesses need their customers to be able to park their motor vehicle right outside their premises. The initial details were in Digest 39, Item 1.4 and in Digest 44, Item 3.1 we published an exchange of views between the City Council and ourselves.

Here’s the latest in the discussion, an email that we received on 30 October and our reply of 11 November. We do hope that after this quite frank exchange of views we will be able to speak to people at the City Council and come to some agreement on future proposals.

3.2 Glasgow, Council Hearing for GoBike member, Bob Downie’s petition to keep National Cycle Route 75 through Glasgow Green open during events

105 people supported Bob Downie’s petition (click on “Search and view all petitions”) to keep the cycle route by the Clyde through Glasgow Green open during events and it is now to be considered by the Wellbeing, Empowerment, Community and Citizen Engagement City Policy Committee on Thursday 14 November. This is good news indeed, and Tricia from GoBike and Jim from Cycling UK will be going along to support Bob to keep this important cycle route open as much as possible.

The photo above was taken on 04 November, the day before the 05 November Fireworks and shows that not only can the cycle and walking route be kept open while that event was prepared, but can be open while the Fair was in action, and the benches can be kept in use.

Let’s hope we get a good result on Thursday – we’ll let you know.

3.3 Glasgow, City Centre, Candleriggs, Traffic Management Order, 2010, Variation 20

Back in 2017 Glasgow City Coucil published proposals for traffic alterations for Candleriggs in the Merchant City. Here’s a copy of the Report that we were sent at the time:

“THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL (CITY CENTRE), (TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT) ORDER 2010
(VARIATION No20) (CANDLERIGGS) ORDER 201_
Report
The Council proposes to amend the current road layout on Candleriggs to support the development of the site bounded by Candleriggs, Trongate, Hutcheson Street and Wilson Street in the Merchant City area of the city centre.
The site of the former Goldbergs site has been unoccupied since 1990 and several buildings have been demolished as they had become unsafe.
The development of the site was approved for planning in April 2016, and will provide retail, student, lease, residential and hotel accommodation along with new attractive pedestrian access routes through the development linking the city centre.
The order will close Candleriggs to all traffic other than pedal cycles between Wilson Street and Bell Street, reverse the current eastbound one way operation of Bell Street between Albion Street and Candleriggs and remove the current prohibition of vehicles between 11pm and 9am on Candleriggs. This will provide access to the development from Albion Street while restricting through traffic and encourage sustainable transport in the city centre.”

Here’s the plan that was submitted at the time.

GoBike submitted this letter of support on 11 November 2017, to the proposals, drafted by GoBike member Peter, who lives nearby and who is a member of the Merchant City & Trongate Community Council.
We have no record of a response to our specific requests, but on 07 November 2019 we received this confirmation that the proposed changes are approved:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF CHRISTINE FRANCIS, HEAD OF TECHNICAL SERVICES, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY
Dear Sir/Madam

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, CITY CENTRE (TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT) ORDER 2010, (VARIATION No20)(CANDLERIGGS) 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 25^th October 2019 and an advert was placed in the Evening Times on Wednesday 30^th October 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 phone number removed by GoBike).

Yours sincerely“, etc

A move in the right direction!

Back in 2 weeks with more!

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. Glasgow (Belmont) (Traffic Management) Order 2005 (Variation No 2) Order 201_- Consultation, Parking, closes TODAY, 15 October
2. East Dunbartonshire, Proposed Traffic Regulation Order – Killermont Avenue, Rannoch Drive and Woodvale Avenue, parking/loading restrictions, closes 21 October
3. Consultation on Scotland’s National Transport Strategy, closes 23 October
4. **NEW – ish** Keep National Cycle Route 75 Open During Public Events in Glasgow Green petition, closes 28 October
5. **NEW** Glasgow, George Square – is it time for change, closes 30 October
6. **NEW** Glasgow, Dalmarnock West, Commuter Parking Restrictions, closes 01 November
7. East Dunbartonshire Draft Local Transport Strategy, closes 12 November

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. Glasgow, Byres Road: delay in issuing TROs
2. Active Travel Event for Everyone event in Edinburgh, 19 October

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. East Dunbartonshire Council: LDP Newsletter No. 53
2. Glasgow, Glencairn Drive Traffic Calming – and we learn about Speed Cameras

Current Consultations, in date order for response

1.1 Glasgow (Belmont) (Traffic Management) Order 2005 (Variation No 2) Order 201_- Consultation, Parking, closes TODAY, 15 October

This consultation featured in our last Digest, Issue 44, Item 1.6 and is proposed in order to prohibit unsafe and obstructive parking in this residential area. We missed the absence of the formal TRO when we first published the information received; this appears to be a recent change of policy with GCC, ie to gauge opinion before going to the expense and formality of a Traffic Regulation Order. Here’s the GoBike letter of support. If you wish to join us in our view please get your comments in quick – consultation closes today.

1.2 East Dunbartonshire, Proposed Traffic Regulation Order – Killermont Avenue, Rannoch Drive and Woodvale Avenue, parking/loading restrictions, closes 21 October

More parking restrictions, here in the leafy suburbs of Bearsden, all around the car salesroom and near the access to residential areas and the golf club. All the details were in Digest 43, Item 1.7 and here’s the GoBike letter of support for the proposal.

1.3 Consultation on Scotland’s National Transport Strategy, closes 23 October

This is now the sixth appearance of this consultation in our Digests and our response will be submitted before the deadline. Responses will help set government strategy for the next 20 years so it’s important that views of the active travel community are heard.
Here’s the link to the government website and consultation details.

Our in-house expert on these long (and winding) documents will be attending the Active Travel Event for Everyone event in Edinburgh on 19 October (see Item 2.2 below) where some discussion on the Strategy is promised, before completing the GoBike response. However, we do understand that it’s a woolly document with few, if any, specific objectives.
Our friends in Cycling UK Scotland (and many of us are CUK members) have analysed the document and have issued a guide for completing the on-line questions, which is very handy. Here’s the link to the page on their website, scroll down to see the link to the suggested responses – and then make them your own; it’s easy to improve when you have a basic guide!
Not only that but Cycling UK Scotland have sent this message to their members, which gives you the option of a very short, barely 2-minute email submission – and you can adapt it to suit:

“Thank you for reaching out to your MSPs to fix the law on parking in a cycle lane. We are hugely disappointed that MSPs squandered the opportunity and voted against the law change, despite more than 6,000 emails being sent by supporters like you.

We will continue to push for this law change and for safer cycling on our roads. We really value your support and willingness to take action. That’s why we want to highlight another opportunity, this time to put cycling at the heart of Scottish transport.

The Scottish Government wants to hear your ideas for its new National Transport Strategy. This Strategy will set the agenda for Scottish transport for the next 20 years, so it’s critical that as many of us as possible have our say before the 23 October deadline.

To help you have your say in the consultation process we have designed a simple online form which will create a personalised and unique response which you can edit. The more detailed and personal your response is, the more effective it will be. 

Help us seize this opportunity to get cycling up the agenda in Scotland. Have your say before the deadline of 23 October.“

Do please fill in this short response form.

1.4 **NEW – ish** Keep National Cycle Route 75 Open During Public Events in Glasgow Green petition, closes 28 October

Covered in our post of 27 September, but new to the Digest, is this latest petition from GoBike and Cycling UK member, Bob Downie,
The National Cycle Route 75 through Glasgow Green is one of the busiest in the city, used by commuters, shoppers, tourists and learners – and also William, from the Glasgow Humane Society, last seen with a life belt on each handlebar of this bike, as he cycled along by the river to put them back in place.

If you haven’t already, do please sign this petition to keep this important route open at all times possible.

1.5 **NEW** Glasgow, George Square – is it time for change, closes 30 October

GoBike member, Rachel, alerted us to this on-line opinion poll/conversation concerning George Square.

“Between the 4th and 30th of October a citywide conversation will raise the question: George Square, is it time for change?

While George Square is a familiar landmark, the way it’s used has been shaped by generations of Glaswegians. Now it’s our turn! Let’s find out what place George Square has in Glasgow today and how it should be used in the future.

We’ll never know unless we talk honestly about how we think and feel, and also listen to what our fellow Glaswegians have to say.So let’s start talking! Here’s how to join the conversation:

• share how you feel about George Square today
• see how people think it could be used in future (and suggest your own)
• book a place on a workshop to have a deeper conversation
• apply to join the Co-Creation Forum that tests ways the results could be implemented

You can also join us on Facebook , Twitter or Instagram“

There are lots of environmentally friendly, active-travel friendly suggestions already – do support or add your own view.

1.6 **NEW** Glasgow, Dalmarnock West, Commuter Parking Restrictions, closes 01 November

In a new departure, noted in Item 1.1 above, by Glasgow City Council we have been sent a plan only of streets to the west of Dalmarnock Station where it is hoped to ban all-day parking. Depending on the response a Traffic Regulation Order will be issued to prevent the “pretty chaotic” (to quote a City Council employee) on-street parking
Here’s the email we received from Glasgow City Council on 04 October:

“Date: 04 October 2019 at 15:55
Subject: FW: The Glasgow City Council (Dalmarnock-West) (Traffic Regulation) Order 201_ – Consultation

MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF KEVIN HAMILTON, HEAD OF ROADS, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY
Dear Sir / Madam
THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL , DALMARNOCK WEST) (TRAFFIC REGULATION) ORDER 201_
The Council propose to consider the introduction of the above named Traffic Regulation Order and I wish to establish the preliminary views of your organisation prior to the publication of these proposals.

Background to the proposed Order
These proposals will prevent all day commuter parking and improve road safety and pedestrian safety by prohibiting unsafe and obstructive parking practices.

Area affected by the proposed Order
The list of roads affected by these proposals are:-

Bonnar Street, Carstairs Street, Colvend Street, Dora Street, French Street, Martin Street, Norman Street, Reid Street, Rockcliffe Street, Solway Street, Strathclyde Street, Swanston Street, Webster Street, Unnamed Access Road.

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

·        No waiting at any time.

Please provide any comments you wish to make on these proposals within 28 days (reply by 1^st November 2019).
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 (name and phone number removed by GoBike)
Should the Council proceed with these proposals; a copy of the Notice of the proposed Order will be forwarded to you intimating an opportunity to lodge any objections to the proposals.
Yours faithfully” etc

Here’s the plan of the area proposed for this ban and you will notice that it extends from the station south to the river and along to the relatively new Police Scotland offices. Concerns have been expressed in the past about employees here parking on the cycle lane just across the river on Shawfield Road, so while GoBike will be supporting this restriction, we will express concerns about the possible knock-on effect for Shawfield Road.

Here’s the GoBike letter of support, including a couple of concerns about parking on Shawfield/Glasgow Road and about the lack of a ramped access, rather than steps, from the Police Scotland premises to NCN 75. Below is a screenshot, which demonstrates the concern for Shawfield Road.

Do please write in to support these proposals if you live, work or cycle in this area.

1.7 East Dunbartonshire Draft Local Transport Strategy, closes 12 November

Here’s the email we received from Chris McGough, Land Planning Policy Officer, Transport, for East Dunbartonshire Council on 26 September?

“The Council has continued work to produce a new Local Transport Strategy and has produced a Draft which is now open for consultation until 12 November 2019. The Draft Strategy, background report, corresponding Environmental Report and online survey is available at the following web page: https://www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk/draft-local-transport-strategy Any comments GoBike has at this stage would be welcome and would assist the Council in producing a final Strategy for publication and implementation. Please let me know if you have any queries.“

Drop-in sessions are being held and unfortunately we have missed the first 2, but 3 more are to be held and you might wish to attend one of these:

• Glazert Country House Hotel, Lennoxtown – Tuesday 22 October – 3pm-7pm
• Fraser Centre, Milngavie – Thursday 24 October – 3pm-7pm
• Kirkintilloch Leisure Centre – Wednesday 30 October – 3pm-7pm.

If you have any views on this document do please let us know at consultations@gobike.org and we will include them in our response.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

2.1 Glasgow, Byres Road: delay in issuing TROs

Back at the end of August, and as we told you in Digest 42, Item 2.2, we were led to expect the issue of 3 Traffic Regulation Orders for Byres Road during September. The one we are particularly interested in is the second:

” Byres Road- Traffic Management and Parking Controls
This order will facilitate the proposed public realm improvements in Byres Road, including footway widening and new cycle lanes. The Order will propose a reduction in on-street car parking bays, the introduction of protected cycle lanes, additional disabled parking, the removal of the left-turn filter lane at the junction of Byres Road and Great Western Road and the introduction of a one-way arrangement on Byres Road and Church Street south of the Church Street junction.  The location of bus stops, loading bays and taxi ranks will be largely unchanged by the Order, although a new daytime taxi rank is proposed at Church Street to complement the University redevelopment works.“

Nothing was heard, so despite no news being good news, we contacted the City Council at the beginning of this month to find out that things are slightly behind programme due to internal issues but “The initial TRO consultation process will start next week with limited circulation to a number of consultees (Emergency Services, SPT etc.)  The public consultation is now likely to start in November and wind up just before Christmas.”
As soon as we hear we will let you know and we’ll be on the case.

2.2 Active Travel Event for Everyone event in Edinburgh, 19 October

Don’t forget this event that takes place on Saturday. Here’s the link to the eventbrite booking: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/active-travel-for-everyone-tickets-73548851595?aff=ebdssbeac
It’s a free event, looking at issues that divide and unite the active travel community. Do go if you can.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 East Dunbartonshire Council: LDP Newsletter No. 53

Here’s the latest update, September 2019, from East Dunbartonshire, that we received just after the last newsletter was issued on 24 September.

3.2 Glasgow, Glencairn Drive Traffic Calming – and we learn about Speed Cameras

In Digest 43, Item 1.2, we gave all the details for the proposals for speed reduction on Glencairn Drive, near Maxwell Park and we submitted this letter of objection – not to the intention to reduce speed but the manner in which it was proposed to be done.

On 10 October this reply came in:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF MICHAEL BRADY, GROUP MANAGER – TRAFFIC AND ROAD SAFETY, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY
Dear Ms Fort
Thank you for your response to the Traffic Calming proposals on Glencairn Drive.

I can advise that the smallest proposed gap between the kerbline and adjacent cushion is 0.8m, not 0.55m as stated. As well as this, the gap between the middle cushions is 1 metre, which should provide more than enough space for cyclists to pass whilst keeping them in the middle of their respective lane, without having to gravitate to the middle of the carriageway in order to travel to pass the middle cushions.

Regarding your request for the installation of chicanes, planters and cycle bypasses, I can advise that this location did not meet the usual criteria used for traffic calming.  However we were aware of speeding concerns at this location and used additional funding for this project to reduce vehicle speeds and make the street safer for all road users.  As such, there is a limited budget for this scheme, which is taken into account together with other factors when designing the layout.

I can also advise that the introduction of speed cameras lies outwith the remit of Glasgow City Council and that the responsibility for the installation of speed cameras lies with Safety Cameras Scotland, therefore any request for a speed camera to be installed at a location should be made to them directly at http://www.safetycameras.gov.scot/contact/.

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

There are 4 factors of interest in this reply:

1. The selective response to the points raised in the GoBike letter, with some completely ignored.
2. The correctness, or otherwise, of one of the drawings issued with the TRO, see screenshot below of a section of one drawing.
3. The curious budgetting procedures of GCC.
4. The fascinating website for Safety Cameras Scotland, http://www.safetycameras.gov.scot/ which details terrifying reports of drivers doing almost double the speed limit but then goes on to give advice to these poor drivers, with little relative thought to the victims of any incident or the crime committed. That said perhaps GoBike should run a campaign to get more speed cameras installed? Do let us know what you think – email consultations@gobike.org

A reply was sent on 11 October, attaching both the screenshot view at the top of this item and a copy of the GCC drawing from which the drawing immediately above is taken.

“Dear Mr Brady,
Thank you for replying to our letter of 17 September and your response to some of the points made therein. For your reference I attach one of the drawings issued as part of this TRO, which clearly shows a gap of 0.55m between cushion and kerb. The GoBike response was based on this drawing. Will you please issue the correct version of the drawing?
I also attach a screenshot showing a view of the road that shows the setts in the gutter, which do not form an acceptable cycling surface. However, I note your comment about the space between the middle cushions and we have to hope that people will be confident enough to use this gap when they are cycling on this road.

It is unfortunate, in our view, that the City Council does not take a more global view when there are concerns expressed about speeding. Rather than maintain this wide road, and others, as one primarily for motor vehicles we would prefer a move towards streets for people. It is also a curious policy that you continue to spend public money to restrain motor drivers who choose to break speed limits, rather than requesting that speed cameras be installed. Thank you, though for the clarification on speed cameras and the link to the relevant website.
We maintain our support for the reduction of dangerous speeds but object to the proposed method of achieving your aims at this location.

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

That’s it for now, but do respond to as many of the requests for support as you can. Your next Digest is scheduled for 29 October.