Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. **NEW** Glasgow Pearce Lane Traffic Regulation Order 201_ Waiting, Loading, Parking restrictions, closes 23 September
2. **NEW** Glasgow, Glencairn Drive, Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 24 September
3. **NEW** Glasgow, Pollok Park Transformation, on-line consultation, closes 26 September
4. UK Government, Department for Transport (DfT), Carbon Offsetting in Transport, closes 26 September
5. **NEW** Glasgow, Polnoon Avenue Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 30 September
6. **NEW** East Dunbartonshire, Proposed Traffic Regulation Order – Schools and Bearsden Town Centre, closes 07 October
7. **NEW** East Dunbartonshire, Proposed Traffic Regulation Order – Killermont Avenue, Rannoch Drive and Woodvale Avenue, closes 21 October
8. Consultation on Scotland’s National Transport Strategy, closes 23 October

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. Save the Date, 19 October, Sharing Concerns with the Visually and Physically Impaired

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Glasgow, University Avenue, removing cycle lanes, response from Active Nation Commissioner.
2. East Dunbartonshire Council: Local Development Plan Newsletter No. 52
3. East Dunbartonshire, Traffic Regulation Order – West Chapelton Avenue & West Chapelton Crescent, Bearsden
4. Glasgow, University Avenue, Glasgow City Council reply to GoBike comment on their rejection of our Objection to the removal of cycle lanes.

Section 1: Current Consultations, in date order for response

1.1 **NEW** Glasgow Pearce Lane Traffic Regulation Order 201_ Waiting, Loading, Parking restrictions, closes 23 September

What a shame that such a tiny street, between Pearce Street and Water Row in Govan, gets cluttered with stationary vehicles, blocking access for pedestrians and emergency vehicles alike, and that the City Council has to go to the expense of a TRO to stop it.

This is what Pearce Lane looks like now (thanks to the GoBike member, who submitted this photo for our Infra day last Friday) with this very short cycle lane, which should come into its own once the new Govan-Partick Bridge has been built, but this is what it used to look like:

The construction of the cycle lane and the installation of the bollards to protect it means that refuse vans etc are unable to pass parked cars (they could previously go up on the verge/old footway) – hence the proposal for double yellow lines on the south side of the lane.

GoBike will be supporting this move and also pointing to positive moves by the Council, as reported in the press, to recruit more parking and traffic wardens. Here’s the email that we received on 02 September:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF KEVIN HAMILTON, HEAD OF ROADS, LAND AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

Dear Sir / Madam
The Glasgow City Council (Pearce Lane) 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
Pearce Lane has been identified as being negatively affected by indiscriminate and obstructive parking practices which can make access difficult for larger vehicles to gain access e.g. refuse vehicles and fire engines.  Vehicles are also regularly parking on, and obstruct, footways which is a safety risk for pedestrians.

In view of the above, these proposals will improve road safety and pedestrian safety by prohibiting obstructive parking practices and improving access to residential properties.
Area affected by the proposed Order
The list of roads affected by these proposals are:-
Pearce Lane
Details of the proposed Order
The proposed restrictions (as depicted on the attached plan) will comprise of:-

·        No waiting and no loading and unloading at any time

Please provide any comments you wish to make on these proposals within 21 days (reply by 23^rd September 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 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 referred to above. If you use this route do write in and support the proposal.
This is the GoBike letter of support.

1.2 **NEW** Glasgow, Glencairn Drive, Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 24 September

Yet more traffic calming, as if there wasn’t enough in Digest 42, but here’s a proposal for Glencairn Drive, G41, just to the east of Maxwell Park. This is the email that we received on 03 September:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF KEVIN HAMILTON, HEAD OF ROADS
NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY
Dear Sir / Madam
The Glasgow City Council, (Glencairn Drive), 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.

Roads affected by the proposed Scheme
The list of roads affected by these proposals are:-
·        Glencairn Drive

Details of the proposed Scheme
The proposed Scheme (as depicted on the attached plan) will comprise of:-
·        8 sets of 4, 1.9m, 75mm high speed cushions.
·        The installation of bollards beside the proposed speed cushions.

Please provide any comments you wish to make on these proposals within 21 days (Reply by 24 September 2019).
Please reply directly to LandServices.Mailroom@glasgow.gov.uk.
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 contact number removed by GoBike)
Should the Council proceed with these proposals; I will write to you again and confirm this.
Yours faithfully” etc

There are 3 plans that were attached to the email: west, centre and east.

Here’s a view of Glencairn Drive:

From the view it’s clear to see that is a straight, wide road that is just an invitation to those drivers who wish to speed, with little or no care for others.

From the plans, and from the view above it can be seen that the minimum gap proposed to be left between the speed cushions and the kerb is only 0.55m and that would leave people cycling in the setts in the gutter. This lack of consideration of cycling will be mentioned in our response as will the question as to why there is no proposal to link Maxwell Park to Shields Road and the South West City Way with cycle lanes along Glencairn Drive. We’ll also ask why there is no proposal to block the clear sight lines with chicanes that incorporate cycle bypasses or a proposal to block off Glencairn Drive to through traffic leaving only access for cycles and emergency vehicles. Even simpler would be to install speed cameras so that the drivers of all vehicles who exceed the limit are prosecuted and fined. Who knows – the money raised from these people who flout the law would probably pay for the installation of the cameras several times over.
We need joined-up thinking and the holistic view when it comes to our streets and how people get around the city.

Here’s the letter we have submitted today in response to the proposals.

1.3 **NEW* Pollok Park Transformation, on-line consultation, closes 26 September

The information available at the
drop-in consultation event at Pollokshaws Library on 10 September is here. There is also a short video that you may view at this link – scroll down and click on “Transforming Pollok Park”
Comments may be submitted by email to PollokCountryParkTransformation@glasgowlife.org.uk. Do have a read of the information from Glasgow Life and and respond to the consultation. It all looks pretty good with a very pleasantly high focus on active travel:

• Car access will be much reduced, with car parking generally on the periphery.
• The car access for the Burrell will be from Haggs Road, with a new car park proposed for just inside the entrance.
• The current car park charge will be doubled from £1 to £2 for up to 3 hours (this still makes it much cheaper, particularly if the car is full, than the train or the bus).
• Car parking will be formally stopped on verges.
• There will be controls on vehicle speeds.
• The National Cycle Route through the park runs along the narrow shared path by the river. While this will remain, the nearby road will be formalised as two-way for cycling.
• The access to the park from Pollokshaws Road via the archway will be restricted to entry for the house, the cricket club, the police dog kennels and the allotments.
• There will be some lighting on the main paths.

but there are concerns:

• The current Burrell car park is to remain, at its present size, even though a new car park is proposed for construction near the Haggs Road entrance? Should this be restricted to being an accessible car park only with coach drop off? Otherwise we are relying on the goodwill of the drivers who could easily walk the short distance from the new car park.
• Electric car charging points are proposed for the current car park? Won’t this simply encourage people to drive to the park to leave their car charging when they could easily have walked, cycled or used public transport?
• Cycle facilities outside the park are not good. We do not know if the traffic lights at the Haggs Road entrance and exit will include a cycle phase and the shared footway from Pollokshaws West railway station is poor.

Do please put your views in by email; they will help to focus the Traffic Regulation Order and Planning Application that we expect to see relatively soon for the works to be done.

1.4 UK Government, Department for Transport (DfT), Carbon Offsetting in Transport, closes 26 September

This was first raised in our last issue, Digest 42, Item 1.9 – and the link to the Consultation is here. The document is only 18 pages and there are short questions to guide responses in each section. However, the main danger seems to be that much time and energy could be spent on “offsetting” carbon-high journeys (not in itself a bad thing) rather than promoting active and low energy travel.

1.5 **NEW** Glasgow, Polnoon Avenue Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 30 September

Look, here’s another long, straight road in Knightswood, G13, and quite wide too, separating houses that were built when there was council housing. Unfortunately it’s now marred by people using the long views to put their foot down on the accelerator, with little or no thought for children playing or people trying to cross the road, people choosing to park on the footway to the detriment of people who are trying to walk, push a pram or use a wheelchair and people choosing to store their car on the roadway when there is easily room off-road. The only advantage of on-road parking is that it narrows the roadway available for moving traffic and thus slows it down, but the big downside is that it is a deterrent to people cycling.

Here’s the email that we received from the City Council on 09 September:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF KEVIN HAMILTON, HEAD OF ROADS
NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY
Dear Sir / Madam
The Glasgow City Council, (Polnoon Avenue), 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.

Roads affected by the proposed Scheme
The list of roads affected by these proposals are:-
·        Polnoon Avenue

Details of the proposed Scheme
The proposed Scheme (as depicted on the attached plan) will comprise of:-
·        4 sets of 2, 1.7m, 75mm high speed cushions with a 2.5m x 5m pedestrian island.
·        The installation of bollards beside the proposed speed cushions.

Please provide any comments you wish to make on these proposals within 21 days (Reply by 30 September 2019).
Please reply directly to LandServices.Mailroom@glasgow.gov.uk.
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 number removed by GoBike).
Should the Council proceed with these proposals; I will write to you again and confirm this.
Yours faithfully” etc

Here are the 3 plans attached to the email: north, south and full view.

A look at the plans is quite disconcerting; with a layout not seen before! Staggered speed cushions are proposed at either end of a traffic island. The drawings do not give the overall width of the road, the gap between the kerb and the speed cushion or the width of road between the traffic island and the kerb.
Current design guides state that pinch points such as traffic islands are to be avoided; it might well be that local residents are unable to cross the road because of speeding traffic and parked cars but putting people who choose to cycle in danger is not the answer; perhaps zebra crossings, speed cameras, chicanes with cycle bypasses or some other active-travel-friendly solution is required?

1.6 **NEW** East Dunbartonshire, Proposed Traffic Regulation Order – Schools and Bearsden Town Centre, closes 07 October

Here’s an email that we received from East Dunbartonshire Council on 04 September:

“Good afternoon
The Council is promoting the undernoted Traffic Regulation Orders. Enclosed are copies of the draft Orders and plans together with copies of the Notices which are to appear in the editions of the Kirkintilloch Herald, the Bishopbriggs Herald and the Milngavie and Bearsden Herald which are published during the week commencing on 2 September 2019. Should you wish to comment on the proposal you must do so in writing by Monday, 7 October 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 previous Orders which are proposed to be amended. Regards
Fiona Stirling
Legal Services
12 Strathkelvin Place, Kirkintilloch, G66 1TJ
Note Referred to:-
1. The East Dunbartonshire Council ( Bearsden and Milngavie Schools) (Waiting and Loading Restrictions) Order;
2. The East Dunbartonshire Council (Bishopbriggs, Kirkintilloch, Milton of Campsie and Torrance Schools) Order;
3. The East Dunbartonshire Council (Bearsden Town Centre) (Waiting and Loading Restrictions) Order.
(See attached file: 190903 Proposed Schools Orders East area.pdf)
(See attached file: 190903 Proposed Schools East – proposed to be amended.pdf)
(See attached file: 190903 Bearsden Town Centre – proposed draft order.pdf)
(See attached file: 190903 Bearsden Town Centre – Order to be amended docs.pdf)(See attached file: 190903 Proposed Schools Order West.pdf)

These proposals address two issues:

1. Parking a vehicle close to a junction (Bearsden Town Centre). This is prohibited in the Highway Code but we have been told recently by Glasgow City Council that parking wardens are unable to act if no Traffic Regulation Order has been issued. It makes one wonder at the purpose of the Highway Code but it is important that visibility, for ALL road users, is good at junctions.
2. Loading and unloading or stopping at or near schools is to be prohibited during the school day (08:30 – 16:30) at Clober Primary School in Milngavie, Westerton Primary School and at 8 primary schools in Bishopbriggs, Kirkintilloch, Milton of Campsie and Torrance. This will be to prevent the congestion that occurs outside school gates and to prevent any accidents that might occur as car doors are opened etc, but, no doubt the main aim will be to get children walking, cycling or scooting to school.

In the interests of road safety and active travel GoBike will be supporting these proposals.
When implemented, this action at schools is sure to take East Dunbartonshire ahead of Glasgow in terms of the number of primary schools with parking restrictions not just in overall numbers (recent proposals, implemented at the start of this term in Glasgow were for 6 schools) but way, way ahead in percentage terms.

If you live in East Dunbartonshire or have links to schools there please do support these proposals.

1.7 **NEW** East Dunbartonshire, Proposed Traffic Regulation Order – Killermont Avenue, Rannoch Drive and Woodvale Avenue, closes 21 October

This proposal aims to restrict parking/loading in the area just off Maryhill Road near the car dealership and the access to the golf club.
Here’s the email that we received from East Dunbartonshire Council on 11 September:

“PROPOSED: KILLERMONT AVENUE, RANNOCH DRIVE AND WOODVALE AVENUE, BEARSDEN ? NO WAITING AND NO LOADING AT ANY TIME RESTRICTIONS

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 that is to appear in the edition of the Milngavie and Bearsden Herald which is published on 20 September 2019. Should you wish to comment on the proposal you must do so in writing by Monday, 21 October 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.
(See attached file: 190910 Draft Order Killermont Ave Area + Notice.pdf) (See attached file: 130205 Bearsden Consolidated Outwith Town Centre.PDF) Regards
Fiona Stirling
Legal Services
12 Strathkelvin Place, Kirkintilloch, G66 1TJ“

Provided this is controlled then it should make it much easier for people who are walking and cycling, and trying to negotiate the road junctions in this area. GoBike will be supporting the proposal and we hope you will too if you work or live in this area or pass through.

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

We have mentioned this in the last three Digests and we have someone working on our response, which we will publish as soon as we can.
Here’s the link to the government website and the consultation details.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

2.1 Save the Date, 19 October, Sharing Concerns with the Visually and Physically Impaired

This photo is taken from Freewheel North, who do considerable work for anyone and everyone who wishes to cycle, but not all do, and many visually and physically impaired people struggle to negotiate our streets. It’s important, though, that we aren’t divided by people who don’t really want any of us in the way of their cars.
Further to the events reported on in Digest 40, Item 3.2, Suzanne and Sally from Walk,Cycle,Vote are planning a day of discussion and experience-sharing; here’s their email:

“A quick update to say that we are planning a larger shared event with RNIB Scotland, and hopefully Spinal Injury Scotland, on 19 October in Edinburgh

We’re currently discussing workshops and speakers, but likely to have something on the following:

• The needs of visually impaired and blind pedestrians for independent and safe mobility
• The needs of wheelchair users for independent and safe mobility
• National Transport Strategy – an opportunity to respond to the consultation
• Strategic Transport Projects Review 2 – an opportunity to highlight shared priorities from WCV supporters and disability organisations
• Design standards – information around current guidance and what we need to change to better meet the needs of disabled pedestrians and cyclists

We’ll be getting details confirmed and more information out shortly, but for now I’d be grateful if you alert anyone you think might be interested in attending

We’d also love to have a few blogs from you: just 500 – 700 words and a couple of pictures on your experience of moving around our towns and cities would be really helpful in setting the scene  and starting the discussion.“

If you are interested then please contact Suzanne at: suzanne.forup@CyclingUK.org

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Glasgow, University Avenue, removing cycle lanes, response from Active Nation Commissioner

You might remember that two weeks ago, in Digest 42, Item 3.4, we published this letter that we sent back to Glasgow City Council about the removal of cycle lanes from University Avenue. That letter was copied to the Active Nation Commissioner, Lee Craigie, among others, and she responded promptly, with this email:

“Thank you. 
Just to let you know I entirely support your objection in principle and will be including the importance of the simplification of the TRO process in my report to the Cabinet Secretary this month. 
I will circulate the content of this report to all active travel stakeholders of which I consider GoBike a valuable contributor. 
My best,
Lee”

We hope for such a positive response from the other addressees!

3.2 East Dunbartonshire Council: Local Development Plan Newsletter No. 52

Here’s the latest newsletter from East Dunbartonshire Council, No 52, dated September 2019.

3.3 East Dunbartonshire, Traffic Regulation Order – West Chapelton Avenue & West Chapelton Crescent, Bearsden

Back in May in Digest 34, Item 1.5, we published the proposals from East Dunbartonshire Council for waiting and loading restrictions on West Chapelton Avenue and West Chapelton Crescent. We submitted this letter of support on 28 May and we now hear, with this email received on 11 September that the Order has been approved.

“THE EAST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL (WEST CHAPELTON AVENUE AND WEST CHAPELTON CRESCENT, BEARSDEN) (NO WAITING AND NO LOADING AT ANY TIME RESTRICTIONS) ORDER 2019
The above-mentioned Traffic Regulation Order has now been made and will become effective on Monday, 4 November 2019. Enclosed are copies of the Order and plan, together with copy of the Notice that is to appear in the edition of the Milngavie & Bearsden Herald that is published on 20 September 2019.
(See attached file: 190911 West Chapelton Order & Schedules +Notice.pdf) Regards
Fiona Stirling
Legal Services
12 Strathkelvin Place Kirkintilloch G66 1TJ“

3.4 Glasgow, University Avenue, Glasgow City Council reply to GoBike comment on their rejection of our Objection to the removal of cycle lanes.

Just in this morning (17 September) Glasgow City Council reply to our second letter. Here’s our initial objection, the City Council response, GoBike’s second letter and now, here is the email received at 11:38 this morning:

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

Dear Ms Fort
THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (UNIVERSITY AVENUE AND UNIVERSITY PLACE)(TRAFFIC REGULATION AND PARKING CONTROLS) ORDER 201_

Thank you for your comments, I can confirm the following:

My officers are committed to delivering cycle infrastructure improvements in accordance with the “Glasgow’s Strategic Plan for Cycling 2016-2025”. However, the strategy is quite clear, “Our transport planners will strive to ensure that, wherever appropriate, new road schemes and changes to existing roads infrastructure will be designed and implemented to reflect the needs of cyclists and a placemaking approach.” In effect officers have to take a balanced approach to facilitating the needs of the agreed transport hierarchy whilst considering a range of factors such as the wider strategic importance of the street for all stakeholders, the space available, consideration of alternative provisions and the consequences of individual design proposals.  Only after a proper balanced approach is assessed can a solution be delivered which is both fit for purpose and does not have significantly detrimental consequences for the surrounding network.

After careful consideration by my officers and their Planning colleagues, a full cycle segregation solution was not, unfortunately, deemed to be appropriate on University Avenue for the reasons previously stated in our response to your objection.

The GoBike solution: Full cycle-lane segregation with a single traffic lane in one direction only – does not fit in with the needs of the wider range of stakeholders, including pedestrians and more specifically public transport providers, their passengers and the emergency services.

With regard to the current temporary traffic management arrangement on University Avenue as not being “problematic”, this system is designed critically to permit traffic to flow in both directions (unlike your proposal). It is also designed as a temporary measure and has been deliberately implemented during the quietest summer period to minimise disruption. Such a system would not be approved as a permanent measure.

The Traffic Regulation Order process has to be addressed on a project-by-project basis. It is not possible to collectively group projects together so they can be reviewed and supported or objected to. Each project that requires a TRO has to have a separate consultation process and stand or fall based on its own merits.

I can confirm that your objection has been maintained and will be considered and included within the final report which will inform the final decision. Once a decision has been taken in regards to these proposals I shall write to you again and advise of the outcome.
Yours sincerely“

So, just in, but what next? Wonder when the final report will be published? We’ll keep you updated.

___________________________________________

Exciting times, indeed. Almost as exciting as B****t, but your Digest will be back next week, yes, next week, hopefully with a shorter edition. Then it’s September weekend, when some GoBikers are cycling the Borders and a bit of a wait until another edition currently planned for 15 October. Take care on your bike and enjoy your cycling.

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. 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. Closes TODAY! North Toryglen green space and active travel designs, open on-line until TODAY, 30 April
2. **NEW** Infrastructure Commission for Scotland, Call for Evidence, closes 03 May
3. Edinburgh Napier and Transform Scotland, Pedestrian Crossing Facilities User Survey, closes 10 May
4. **NEW** Scottish Government – Consultation on Environmental Principles and Governance in Scotland, closes 10 May
5. **NEW** Glasgow, B759, Cathkin Road, 30mph Speed Limit Traffic Regulation Order, closes 21 May
6. Glasgow Climate Change Survey, closes 31 May
7. **NEW** Petition for a safer crossing to Victoria Park at Westland Drive, Glasgow.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

Yet again, we have no advance news.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Govan Partick Strategic Development Framework
2. Glasgow City Council, Byres Road Public Realm: Revised Concept Design, 23 April – SUCCESS, Segregated cycle lanes to be included
3. Glasgow, Elmbank Street: the City Council maintain their opposition to permeability
4. Glasgow, South City Way, Gorbals Street Traffic Regulation Order

Section 1: Current Consultations in date order for responses

1.1 Closes TODAY! North Toryglen green space and active travel designs, open on-line until TODAY, 30 April

This is a delightful community scheme, transforming wasteland and introducing active travel routes, which we featured in Digest 32. Do please have a look at the plans that are here: https://www.urbanroots.org.uk/workshops/northtoryglen/ and complete the survey. Then see if you can get something similar done where you live! Here’s the letter of support GoBike has sent in.

1.2 Infrastructure Commission for Scotland, Call for Evidence, closes 03 May

Here’s a survey that Transform Scotland told us about. It’s high level but this is where we need to get our views in if we want meaningful change for active travel. Here’s the link to the call for evidence.

Let’s see if we can get some iconic cycling infrastructure! The documents aren’t long ones but there is a form that you have to return with your submission!

1.3 Edinburgh Napier and Transform Scotland, Pedestrian Crossing Facilities User Survey, closes 10 May

We mentioned this survey last time, in Digest 32, and it’s a quick and easy one to do. It’s about road crossings and your preference for them/behaviour at them. Do please give it a go.

1.4 Scottish Government – Consultation on Environmental Principles and Governance in Scotland, closes 10 May

Here’s another one that Transform Scotland passed on to us and it’s about what happens to environmental controls when we leave the EU. It’s quite alarming how much work has been done, and there still is to do, about leaving. Ideally you need to know about environmental principles and current governance controls as they are handled in the EU, but there is information in the consultation paper. Here’s the link to the consultation, so give it a try.

1.5 **NEW** Glasgow, B759, Cathkin Road, 30mph Speed Limit Traffic Regulation Order, closes 21 May

This is one that we will support – unless you tell us you think Cathkin Road should remain at 40mph? This is the email that we received from Glasgow City Council on 24 April:

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

Dear Sir or Madam,

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (B759 Cathkin Road) (30mph peed Limit) Order 20__
Further to my consultation email of 26 March 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.
I would once again ask that you pass this information on to all bus operators likely to be affected by these proposals.

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 21 May 2019.

Yours faithfully”

We did not receive a “consultation email of 26 March”, but it looks as if one or more bus operators were not too happy with whatever went out that day, or perhaps didn’t go out. Hence, it seems, this full consultation now.

The documents attached to the email are: Advert Statement of Reasons, Plan and Report.

1.6 Glasgow Climate Change Survey, closes 31 May

This was Item 1.6 in Digest 32 and although there is still one month to respond, there’s no time like the present!

Here’s the link to the survey and here’s the link to response suggestions that we got from Extinction Rebellion.
But you will no doubt, be able to think of many more measures to reduce pollution and climate change – realistic implementation and enforcement of the 20mph speed limit in the city centre, sorting out road drainage, clearing vehicles off our pavements so that we can walk along them, cycle lanes, segregated of course, on all the main roads into the city ……

1.7 **NEW** Petition for a safer crossing to Victoria Park at Westland Drive.

Off the back of one of last weekend’s many pop up Pedal on Parliament protests around Scotland, GoBike member Andy Watson has launched a petition asking for a safer crossing at Victoria Park. The protest was reported in Glasgow Live here. The notoriously dangerous double roundabout crossing that creates a real obstacle for families trying to reach the park has long been highlighted to the council. Sunday’s protest was attended by many local families as well as Carol Monaghan MP, Councillor Feargal Dalton and Robert McKay, chair of Jordanhill Community Council, who have all taken council reps to the roundabout to highlight the dangers. The council have so far maintained that as there have been no recorded fatalities at the crossing so far, it is “safe”. Help them reconsider by adding your name to this really quick petition.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Govan Partick Strategic Development Framework

Back in February, in Digest 27, Item 1.2, we published our response to this Framework Document and last month, 22 March (sorry about the delay in telling you) we got this acknowledgement:

“Thank you for your response to the draft Govan-Partick Strategic Development Framework consultation. Your response is currently being considered by the Council as it prepares the final version of the Strategic Development Framework.

We received a substantial and diverse range of commentary on the Strategic Development Framework and the input from all respondents to the consultation was greatly appreciated. We are currently reviewing the ideas, suggestions and representations that were submitted and these will be invaluable in informing the Finalised Draft Strategic Development Framework.  Many of the responses related to wider issues than just spatial planning and the commentary is also informing the Council’s approach to the regeneration of the area more generally.

We will be in touch again soon to clarify the timescales for moving towards formal adoption of the SDF.
If you have any further questions at this time please feel free to contact us at this email address.

Best regards
Spatial Strategy Team
Development & Regeneration“

3.2 Glasgow City Council, Byres Road Public Realm: Revised Concept Design, 23 April, SUCCESS, Segregated cycle lanes to be included

You can read the long-awaited decision on Byres Road here, from the City Council, Neighbourhoods, Housing and Public Realm City Policy Committee, Report by Executive Director of Regeneration and the Economy.

If you subscribe to our posts then you will have read this post which describes how the City Council have approved plans to incorporate segregated cycle lanes into the upgrade for Byres Road. If you haven’t read it then it’s well worth a read. Our thanks and congratulations go to everyone who was involved in the campaign. Unfortunately things haven’t gone so well right next door on University Avenue and we know we’ve still a long way to go before Glasgow City Council will accept, across the board, that safe active travel is a requirement on all redevelopment schemes.

Here’s some information from the twittersphere that explains why it has all taken to long to come to the Byres Road decision:

3.3 Glasgow, Elmbank Street: the City Council maintain their opposition to permeability

So a win above on Byres Road for active travel, but the situation on Elmbank Street appears to be a loser. If you have been following the sorry tale there with the loss of a route to Sauchiehall Street, you will be aware that GoBike received a favourable reception when we went to a meeting of Blythswood and Broomielaw Community Council. One of the local councillors, Bailie Philip Braat who was at that meeting, wrote in to Neighbourhoods and Sustainability and we reported on the reply he got in Digest 30, item 1.4
We were delighted to hear that the other councillor who attended that meeting, Bailie Christy Mearns wrote in to N&S on 24 April with this:

“Please could you confirm whether it is technically possible to construct a safe contra-flow cycle lane along Elmbank Street? Whether this is by removing three parking spaces, realigning kerbs, and/ or altering pavement and signals.

Many cyclists are frustrated that conta-flow cycling has been removed from this street which has made it more difficult to move about with ease. Given that contra-flow lanes are the Council’s policy, I am trying to ascertain why this decision was made and how feasible it would be to reintroduce it. Despite the nearby improvements to Sauchiehall Street, cycling infrastructure has actually got worse here and I want to understand how this has been justified.

It is safe, joined-up cycling infrastructure which gets more people cycling; and I worry we are going in the wrong direction, at encouraging active travel, with this move. I look forward to hearing from you on this.”

Almost quick as a flash, as if the answer was there on the shelf, came this reply just one day later, 25 April:

“Dear Bailie Mearns

Thank you for your email in relation to the non-inclusion of a contraflow cycle lane on Elmbank Street as part of the Sauchiehall Street Avenue.

A primary objective of the project was to provide an environment which would enhance social and economic wellbeing of Sauchiehall Street and lead to economic growth in the area re-population of the area.

The basis of the design for Sauchiehall Street is the upgrading of the pedestrian and public transport infrastructure and installation of cycling infrastructure. Circa 550m of 2 way segregated cycle lane has been installed in an area where previously there were no segregated cycling facilities, all in accordance with Glasgow City Council policy. Construction of the proposed cycling infrastructure and median strip, required the carriageway width of Sauchiehall Street to be reduced which meant that vehicles turning into Elmbank Street have a tighter turn. In addition an ‘Avenue’ of trees has been installed to further enhance the local environment of the area within a median strip. The new cycling infrastructure connects to the ‘Connecting Woodside’ proposals in the west and the possibility of providing a link to cycling infrastructure on Cambridge Street from Rose Street is to be investigated as part the works proposed for Sauchiehall Street Precinct.  

Prior to the works 53 parking bays, none of which were disabled bays, were located on Sauchiehall Street. On completion of the works 3 number disabled bays will be installed on Sauchiehall Street, ie a 95% reduction in the number of parking bays implemented to enable the construction of the segregated cycle route and median strip.

The area within which the site is located is a major part of the ‘night time’ economy for Glasgow City Centre therefore consultations with local businesses were undertaken and the issue of reduced levels of parking on Sauchiehall Street was highlighted. To mitigate this reduction the Council committed to providing parking bays on the streets between Sauchiehall Street and Bath Street where possible. The number of bays that could be incorporated at these locations was limited given the need to maintain taxi ranks, bus stands for public transport and loading facilities for businesses. The final scheme constitutes a significant overall reduction in the level of car parking in the area.  

An existing loading bay for Sauchiehall St businesses was located on Sauchiehall Street to the west of the junction with Elmbank Street. This bay had to be removed to accommodate the construction of the segregated cycle lane and median strip. It was relocated to the north west corner of Elmbank Street. In addition an existing loading bay was located on the south east quarter of Elmbank Street to provide servicing facilities to the businesses in  Elmbank Street area and this bay was retained.

The possibility of installing a contraflow cycle lane on the west side of Elmbank Street was investigated and the required buffer zone and cycle lane have been highlighted on the attached extract from the general arrangement. The turning requirement of vehicles into Elmbank Street was added and there is a clash between the two. The visibility of vehicles exiting the loading bay would have been compromised increasing the risk of injury to cyclists heading north. As a consequence of these risks a contraflow cycle lane was not installed at this location on safety grounds.

The possibility of installing a contraflow cycle lane on the east side was also investigated however the existing loading bay and parking at this location would require to be removed. The removal of these facilities would have had a detrimental impact on the economy of the area.

Given the various factors to be considered in the preparation of the proposed layouts, a balance had to be struck to accommodate the requirements of the various interest groups. Overall, the existing footways were upgraded for pedestrians, the addition of a  segregated cycle lane has improved cycling facilities, public transport infrastructure was upgraded and the number of parking bays available to private cars was substantially reduced whilst taking into account the impact on the economy of the area. It is accepted that, at this particular location, Elmbank Street, cycling facilities have not been incorporated into the works however when the full project is taken into consideration, segregated cycling facilities within the area have improved significantly and in accordance with Council policy.

I hope that this explanation of the consultation, care and attention that has gone into achieving the best overall balanced design for all users in the area clarifies the reasons why segregated cycling facilities were not included in Elmbank Street.

Andrew Harrison
Group Manager, Neighbourhoods & Sustainability”

Here’s the “extract from the general arrangement” referred to in the reply.

So there we have it folks – 550m of segregated cycle lane on Sauchiehall Street, but who cares whether we can actually reach it? A major part of our City Council just doesn’t get it that we cycle from A to B. Unless they think we are going to put our bikes on the back of a car, park in Elmbank Street, carry our bike across to Sauchiehall Street, and cycle up and down the 550m for an hour or two. Very disappointing indeed.

3.4 Glasgow, South City Way, Gorbals Street Traffic Regulation Order

In January we responded favourably to the consultation for the part of the South City Way that will be on Gorbals Street (see Digest 26, Item 1.3), and we have now, 18 April, received this acknowledgement:

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

Dear Ms Fort,

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (SOUTH CITY WAY) (GORBALS STREET), 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 Tuesday, 9 April 2019 and an advert was placed in the Evening Times on Wednesday, 17 April 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 Suzette Aidoo on 0141 287 9024.

So no response to our comment that unidirectional cycle lanes should be the norm, but let’s hope that the project gets a move on and we can all soon cycle from the Clyde to Queen’s Park.

So, that’s it for now – a relatively quiet fortnight, but with lots of activity for the Pedal on Parliament, we hope you enjoyed getting out on the streets.