Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. **NEW** OnBikes and St Paul’s Youth Forum, short survey for Sustrans’ Places for Everyone scheme, please respond as soon as possible!
2. Glasgow City Council, Connecting Communities, Transport Strategy Public Conversation, Your Views, closes 30 October
3. Glasgow City Council (City Centre) (Traffic Management) Order 2010 (Variation No 27) Order 202, waiting and loading, plus EV parking, closes 30 October
4. The Guardian Newspaper, Why we need media reporting guidelines for road safety, closes 08 November
5. The Scottish Government, Programme for Reviewing and Extending Permitted Development Rights (PDR) in Scotland – Consultation on Phase 1 Proposals, closes 08 November
6. Transport Scotland, Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2030 – Draft Public Consultation, closes 01 December
7. **NEW** Glasgow City Council, new City Development Plan, closes 11 December
8. **NEW** East Dunbartonshire Proposed Local Development Plan 2 (LDP2), closes 15 January 2021

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. NHS Lanarkshire, new Monklands Hospital, GoBike response
2. Glasgow Airport Investment Area (GAIA) project, newsletter, including new bridge over White Cart
3. Stockingfield Bridge diversion details
4. Glasgow City Council, Ruchazie Road speed cushion confirmation – and our question!
5. East Dunbartonshire Council, Local Development Plan Newsletter No 60

Section 1: Current Consultations in date order for responses

1.1 **NEW** OnBikes and St Paul’s Youth Forum, short survey for Sustrans’ Places for Everyone scheme, please respond as soon as possible!

This is a reminder of the blog that came out on 18 October. If you haven’t read it yet then please click here, read it and respond! The north east of the city needs you. The survey is quick and easy to do.

Responses are requested as soon as possible to meet Sustrans’ funding timetable.

1.2 Glasgow City Council, Connecting Communities, Transport Strategy Public Conversation, Your Views, closes 30 October

This consultation from the City Council first appeared in Digest 70, Item 1.9. The survey is a must-do for active travellers, so please do give it a go by Friday.

1.3 Glasgow City Council (City Centre) (Traffic Management) Order 2010 (Variation No 27) Order 202, waiting and loading, plus EV parking, closes 30 October

This consultation featured first in our previous Digest, 71, Item 1.5 and here’s the GoBike letter in response. In the letter there is reference to the Stage One consultation letter that we submitted; we were not able to publish that response at the time but here it is now, for reference.

1.4 The Guardian Newspaper, Why we need media reporting guidelines for road safety, closes 08 November

We know from the struggles of all under-represented groups that the use of language is important. In our case, some of the language used about cycling and those of us who cycle is very pejorative. This survey, taken from the Guardian newspaper, was in Digest 71, Item 1.6 and is well worth a few minutes of your time, if you haven’t already completed it. Here’s the link and you need to read a bit of text so that you can complete the very short survey.

1.5 The Scottish Government, Programme for Reviewing and Extending Permitted Development Rights (PDR) in Scotland – Consultation on Phase 1 Proposals, closes 08 November

Item 1.7 in Digest 71 gave the details for this consultation – a must for any cycling tenement dweller! Do please look at this link and get your views in.

1.6 Transport Scotland, Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2030 – Draft Public Consultation, closes 01 December

This consultation, first featured in Digest 69, Item 1.13 and it’s clear, with an average of 3 people per week being killed on Scotland’s roads that something needs to be done about road safety.
Here’s the link to the consultation information.

1.7 **NEW** Glasgow City Council, new City Development Plan, closes 11 December

How good are our places? This is what the City Council wants to know, with this email from 21 October that GoBike member, Derek M, forwarded to us:

“Good afternoon 
Glasgow City Council is preparing a new City Development Plan and we want to hear your views on what it should say. We are working with our partners, The Future Fox to host an online engagement called Placebuilder. It is designed to help us understand the experiences and ideas of Glasgow’s different neighbourhood communities on what they think works, what could be better and what they would like to see change. 
The engagement will run from Wednesday 21^st October until Friday 11^th December 2020. If you click on the image below you will be taken to the engagement home page where you can choose to answer questions about your neighbourhood. Or if you are really interested in a specific issue in a specific place you can tag the map and tell us more.   

Here’s the link from the image. (The image, but not the link, copied from the email!)

We want to hear from all age groups including from younger people, and all backgrounds, circumstances, and locations so the Plan can reflect Glasgow’s diverse population. Understanding how everyday Glasgow works will help us create a Plan that leads to a better city experience as well as addressing the big issues we face like tackling climate change, helping to create more opportunities to work and improving health and wellbeing.

The Plan will also guide where we want new development to happen in order to make Glasgow a more healthy, liveable, and successful place. Things like the location of new housing and businesses, how we can improve our town centres or re-use vacant land and protect our important built and natural assets.

The new Plan will affect every neighbourhood in the Glasgow City Council Area and will guide how every part of the city should be developed in the future. We want this to be influenced by what you – the people of Glasgow, think about our city and what the local priorities for change are. By using the tools in this consultation we hope to get an understanding of how our different places need to be looked at in the new Plan. Your opinions will form an important part of the Plan’s evidence base which means it is responsive to our communities’ views and ideas. This is the start of the process and we will be taking more opportunities to speak to specific groups and gain ideas. It will take a number of years to gather all of the information and other evidence before we are able to share a draft plan but your comments and suggestions will help us prepare a Plan that reflects the priorities of all of Glasgow’s communities.   

Development Plan,
Development and Regeneration Services
Glasgow City Council231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX
developmentplan@glasgow.gov.uk“

So do please get your views in.

1.8 **NEW** East Dunbartonshire Proposed Local Development Plan 2 (LDP2), closes 15 January 2021

Here’s the email that we received from East Dunbartonshire Council on 22 October, bearing the news forecast in Digest 70, Section 2, Forthcoming Consultations:

“Dear Sir/ Madam,

East Dunbartonshire Council has published the proposed LDP2 and is notifying you of the representation period for the Proposed Plan, from Monday 19th October 2020 until Friday 15th January 2021. You have been sent this email because you have previously shown an interest in the development plan process.
The Proposed LDP2 sets out policies and proposals to guide land use change and improve the quality of development. It includes the following policies:
a development strategy, seven community policies and subject policies.

The Council is also consulting on the following related documents:
· Environmental Report
· Proposed Delivery Programme
· Proposed Sustainability and Energy Statement form
· Additional Site Assessments for Nine Sites Submitted During the Main Issues Report Consultation in 2019
· Habitats Regulations Appraisal

The Proposed LDP2 and the other related five consultation documents may be viewed on the Council website: www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk/LDP2
Due to the restrictions in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic a hard copy of the LDP2 and the other documents will also be available to borrow in the following libraries as part of the Connect and Collect service, collection is by appointment only.
For further information on this service please check the East Dunbartonshire Leisure & Culture Trust website https://www.edlc.co.uk/libraries/connect-collect, or telephone the following libraries between 10am and 1pm.
· Bearsden Library, 69 Drymen Road, Bearsden G61 3QT. Telephone 0141 777 3021
· Bishopbriggs Library, 170 Kirkintilloch Road, Bishopbriggs G64 2LX. Telephone 0141 777 3155
· Lennoxtown Library, 46 Main Street, Lennoxtown G66 7JJ. Telephone 0141 777 3151
· Milngavie Library, Allander Road, Milngavie G62 8PN. Telephone 0141 956 2776
· William Patrick Library, 2-4 West High Street, Kirkintilloch G66 1AD. Telephone 0141 777 3141

If you would like to make a representation to the Council on the Proposed LDP2 a representation form and further information is available on the Council website: www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk/LDP2
The Land Planning Policy Team is also available to answer any enquiries by telephone and email, Monday to Friday 9am ? 5pm, on 0300 123 4510. Your representation should explain clearly and concisely your reasons for seeking a change to, or supporting, the Proposed LDP2 and you are encouraged to use the representation form. Your representation should be submitted by e-mail to development.plan@eastdunbarton.gov.uk or by post to: Land Planning Policy Team Broomhill Depot Kilsyth Road Kirkintilloch G66 1TP
Representations should be submitted no later than 5pm on Friday 15th January 2021. “

Plenty for you residents of East Dunbartonshire to get your teeth into there!

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

No news again.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 NHS Lanarkshire, new Monklands Hospital, GoBike response

Item 1.1 in Digest 71 highlighted the consultation on the location for the proposed new Monklands Hospital, which closed on 18 October. Of the 3 possible sites GoBike favours the Wester Moffat site, shown above and here’s our submission of 16 October explaining why. This site is definitely the best for active travel and public transport for the nearby population.

Here’s the acknowledgement that we received on 20 October:

“Monklands Replacement Project

Thank you for your email. This is confirmation that the project team have received your email and your feedback has been noted.

In the meantime, any updates will be published at www.monklands.scot.nhs.uk “

3.2 Glasgow Airport Investment Area (GAIA) project, newsletter, including new bridge over White Cart

Here’s the latest news from the Glasgow Airport Investment Area, received on 19 October:

“We wanted to draw your attention to the following update on the GAIA City Deal project …

As construction progresses at our Glasgow Airport Investment Area (GAIA) project, our contractor Wills Bros Civil Engineering, have issued the second GAIA newsletter which provides an update on progress of construction works on the project. You can view this from the related document section of our GAIA webpage at www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/gaia.

Second issue of official newsletter for the Glasgow Airport Investment Area (GAIA) project.

This newsletter, which is the second in a series updates as the project progresses, includes: Project progress; Traffic management including lane closures required to allow construction to progress; Covid-19 safety measures; Community updates; and Next steps. You can download the newsletter from the related documents section of our GAIA project page at www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/gaia.“

3.3 Stockingfield Bridge diversion details

Here we have the latest news, received on 19 October via Sustrans:

“From: Communications [mailto:Communications@scottishcanals.co.uk]
Sent: 19 October 2020 15:57
Subject: Stockingfield Bridge Update

Good afternoon,

I want to update you on progress of the new Stockingfield Bridge, which will not only reconnect the communities of Ruchill, Gilshochill and Maryhill but complete the last link in the Forth & Clyde Canal towpath, bringing a major active travel improvement.

Unfortunately, as part of the construction of the bridge it is necessary to temporarily close a section of the Forth & Clyde Canal towpath between Ruchill Street in Maryhill and Stockingfield Junction from November 16, 2020 to approximately July 2022.

This will impact anyone walking or cycling the following routes:

• Bowling to Falkirk
• Bowling to Glasgow City Centre
• Falkirk to Glasgow City Centre

The canal will also be closed to boating traffic from November 1 to March 15^, 2021.

A 4.4km towpath diversion has been put in place for walkers and cyclists that follows the River Kelvin, avoiding the traffic-heavy alternative of Maryhill Road. The route, which has been agreed with Sustrans and Glasgow City Council, will be clearly marked and letters are being distributed to local residents by our contractor.

An area of ground adjacent to the canal is also being provided for local dog walkers during this closure period, which will also be well signposted.

As well as opening up a new access route for people living in Ruchill, Gilshochill and Maryhill with the west end and city centre, the new bridge will allow walkers and cyclists to cross the canal at towpath level rather than having to drop off and negotiate the road tunnel at Lochburn Road before rejoining the path again.

The increased access to the canal and the design of the bridge structure with an integrated observation deck and landscaping on this currently underused site will encourage greater use of the canal.

As part of the development new traffic signals will also be installed on Lochburn Road to manage traffic through the Stockingfield Aqeduct.

If you require any more information, please get in touch.

Yours sincerely
Alasdair Hamilton
Technical Manager
Scottish Canals“

The River Kelvin path will be busy then; shame the City Council hasn’t installed cycle lanes on Maryhill Road yet, but, on the bright side, we do have a diversion.

3.4 Glasgow City Council, Ruchazie Road speed cushion confirmation – and our question!

Back in Digest 69, Item 1.10, we published proposals for speed cushions to be installed on Ruchazie Road. Here’s the letter of objection to this and 4 other schemes across the city that we submitted on 15 September.

Glasgow City Council confirmed by email on 20 October that the scheme will go ahead as proposed with 40 speed cushions and 26 bollards to be installed.

GoBike, on 24 October, submitted this question in response to the City Council:

“Hello,

Thank you for this response.

Many GoBike members ask about the effectiveness of speed cushions in reducing the speed of motor traffic and reducing collisions, both between motor vehicles and between motor vehicles and people. Thus could you please send me the results of your post-installation surveys so that we speed-cushion-sceptics may be reassured that the City Council is acting wisely to improve safety on our streets?

Many thanks“

We’ll let you know if and when we get a reply.

3.5 East Dunbartonshire Council, Local Development Plan Newsletter No 60

Here’s the latest newsletter from EDC, received on 21 October

In this newsletter:
 Have Your Say on the Proposed Local Development Plan 2
 Clydeplan Draft Forestry and Woodland Strategy Consultation
 Electric Vehicles in East Dunbartonshire
 Guide for Home Businesses

_____________________________________________________

That’s it for now, but watch out for more news in 2 weeks and some forthcoming changes in our Digests!

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. **NEW** NHS Lanarkshire, new Monklands Hospital, closes 18 October
2. **NEW** East Renfrewshire Council, Community online consultation on proposals for Barrhead South, closes 21 October
3. UK Department of Transport, Review of the Highway Code to improve road safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders, closes 27 October
4. Glasgow City Council, Connecting Communities, Transport Strategy Public Conversation, Your Views, closes 30 October
5. **NEW** Glasgow City Council (City Centre) (Traffic Management) Order 2010 (Variation NO.27) Order 202, waiting and loading, plus EV parking, closes 30 October
6. **NEW** The Guardian Newspaper, Why we need media reporting guidelines for road safety, closes 08 November
7. **NEW** The Scottish Government, Programme for Reviewing and Extending Permitted Development Rights (PDR) in Scotland – Consultation on Phase 1 Proposals, closes 08 November
8. Transport Scotland, Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2030 – Draft public consultation, closes 01 December

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Glasgow City Council, 01 October, confirmation of speed cushion installation on 6 schemes, Ladyloan Avenue, Muirhead Road, Gartocher Road, Maxwell Drive, Prospecthill Circus and Warriston Street
2. Glasgow Science Centre, Planning Application, acknowledgement of GoBike response
3. Multiplex University of Glasgow Campus Development – October 2020 Newsletter
4. City Deal Renfrewshire, Glasgow Airport Investment Area – traffic management works second phase
5. Glasgow City Council, 08 October, confirmation of speed cushion installation on 2 schemes, Newlands Park and Greenfield Road Area
6. North Lanarkshire – East Airdrie Link Road: Active Travel Stakeholder Group, report of 30 July meeting
7. North Lanarkshire – City Deal funding approved for Ravenscraig Infrastructure Access project

Section 1: Current Consultations, in date order for responses

1.1 **NEW** NHS Lanarkshire, new Monklands Hospital, closes 18 October

We are aware that Monklands Hospital in Airdrie is due to be replaced and a new hospital built at another site, at one of the 3 options shown above. These are, from left to right: Gartcosh, Glenmavis and Wester Moffat. We understand that active travel links will be considered, whichever option is selected – and the request is out for the public to give their views.

The information from NHS Lanarkshire is here:  https://www.nhslanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk/get-involved/consult-engage/monklands-engagement/
Here’s the email address for your submission: MRP.Team@lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk

If you live, work or are otherwise interested in this area, please do respond and get the active travel view in.

1.2 **NEW** East Renfrewshire Council, Community online consultation on proposals for Barrhead South, closes 21 October

2 years ago, on 24 October there was a consultation event for the Barrhead Travel Links, which we mentioned in several Digests, the last being Digest 21, Item 1.1. There is now an online consultation, which you may access here. It’s a very simple questionnaire, with just one box for your views, so will only take a few minutes of your time.

1.3 UK Department of Transport, Review of the Highway Code to improve road safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders, closes 27 October

This is the final outing for this consultation. It is hoped that you have read the blog we published on this topic. You still have time to do so – and do please respond. All the information is in this blog and we need to ensure that views from those of us who cycle, walk and perhaps even ride a horse, outnumber those commentators who maintain that they own the roads because they pay “road tax”. Here’s the letter, penned by Brenda with some assistance from Calum, that GoBike sent in last Tuesday.

We received this email acknowledgement for our submission on 09 October:

“Many thanks for submitting a response to the Highway Code consultation to improve road safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders. Your views are very important to us and your comments will be considered when we undertake full analysis of all replies.

A summary of responses, including the next steps, will be published within three months of the close of the consultation.

Highway Code Review 2020
Great Minster House
33 Horseferry Road, London, SW1P 4DR
Follow us on twitter @transportgovuk”

So don’t expect overnight changes then!

1.4 Glasgow City Council, Connecting Communities, Transport Strategy Public Conversation, Your Views, closes 30 October

All the details for this online consultation were in Digest 70, Item 1.9 and here’s the link to how you may participate; it’s very easy to find out what the City Council is saying and to put in your views. Please do.

1.5 **NEW** Glasgow City Council (City Centre) (Traffic Management) Order 2010 (Variation NO.27) Order 202, waiting and loading, plus EV parking, closes 30 October

GoBike responded to the Stage One (limited) consultation on this back in March this year with this letter. We have now received the full public consultation with the following email that arrived on 08 October. Changes have been made since the initial proposals were issued:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF KEVIN HAMILTON, HEAD OF ROADS
NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Sir or Madam,

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (CITY CENTRE) (TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT) ORDER 2010, (VARIATION NO.27) ORDER 202_

Further to my consultation email of 13 February 2020 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 maps, statement of reasons and detailed report.

There has been some changes to the proposals which are specifically:

• The previous definition of Hanover Court has now been split into two sections namely North Frederick Street and North Frederick Path as per the attached plan;
• The previous proposed new electric vehicle only parking spaces on Bell Street, Bothwell Street, Collins Street, Holland Street, Ingram Street, Rose Street and Rottenrow East have been removed from the 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 Kevin Hamilton, Head of Roads, Exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX  or by e-mail to lestraffic@glasgow.gov.uk by Friday 30 October 2020.

Yours faithfully

Kevin Hamilton
Head of Roads, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability“

Here are the drawings that were attached to the email:

11.01-Publication-of-Proposals-Press-Notice-Advertised-09.10.2020
09.01_-_Draft_Report
08.01_-_Statement_of_Reasons
Publication-Douglas-Lane
Publication-Electric-Bays-Inner-Area
Publication-Electric-Bays-Outer-Area
Publication-Hanover-Court-renamed
Publication-Motorcycle-Bays
Publication-Proposed-Candleriggs-Development

This appears to be an improvement on the initial proposals, although there is no mention of the contraflow cycling for Candleriggs that was promised at Stage One, so we will be asking about that in the GoBike response.

1.6 **NEW** The Guardian Newspaper, Why we need media reporting guidelines for road safety, closes 08 November

This is a fascinating survey and one that affects us all; the use of language in reporting what happens on our roads. GoBike member, Derek M, sent it in and here’s the link to the Guardian newspaper.

This is just one quote from the article:
There is excellent reporting out there – , but there is also less thoughtful output. For example, the majority (61%) of coverage of cyclists is broadly negative, focusing on road danger, criminality or bad behaviour, although studies have shown cyclists are generally far more law-abiding than motorists.

Do please read the article and put your thoughts in the short open-question survey.

It’s no doubt that it’s the use of pejorative language in the media that affects us all who cycle and could well be relevant in the recent suffering of GoBike member and ex-co-Convenor and Pedal on Parliament campaigner, Dave Brennan. See here for details from our sister organisation Cycling UK.

1.7 **NEW** The Scottish Government, Programme for Reviewing and Extending Permitted Development Rights (PDR) in Scotland – Consultation on Phase 1 Proposals, closes 08 November

This consultation, advised to us by GoBike member, John, and Cycling UK Scotland, relates to cycle storage for houses, tenements and on-street – a topic close to many people’s hearts. It’s Section 7 of this document that relates to active travel and it’s easy to fill in the survey section – if you agree with the proposals. Do please support this relaxation in planning requirements.

1.8 Transport Scotland, Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2030 – Draft public consultation, closes 01 December

This consultation first appeared in Digest 69, Item 1.13 and it’s certainly worth taking a look at the proposals. There’s quite a bit about improving road safety, but not a lot of detail about how it will be done. Indeed, training of motor drivers is outwith the current remit of the Scottish Government, but it is a move in the right direction.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

None that we have been made aware of, but plenty of current ones to keep you busy and the hint of one in our very last item, 3.7, below, concerning road links from Ravenscraig to Motherwell.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Glasgow City Council, 01 October, confirmation of speed cushion installation on 6 schemes, Ladyloan Avenue, Muirhead Road, Gartocher Road, Maxwell Drive, Prospecthill Circus and Warriston Street

Yes, the most-used photo of the year, more speed cushions confirmed for these 6 streets. The proposals have been approved as we first published them in Digest 66 and Digest 67 with the exception of:

• Muirhead Road: Proposed set of speed cushions situated at number 27/29 will now be situated at number 31
• Warriston Street: Proposed set of speed cushions situated at number 154 will now be situated at number 162.

The amended information is shown on these drawings:

RS.20.58-Muirhead-Road-TC-proposals-Full-view-after-consultation
Warriston-Street-Full-view-of-proposals-after-consultation

Sadly, no information is given as to why residents do, or do not, want speed cushions outside their house!

3.2 Glasgow Science Centre, Planning Application, acknowledgement of GoBike response

The consultation to reroute the cycle route past the Science Centre featured as Item 1.5 in Digest 69 and here’s the letter of objection that GoBike submitted on 15 September. This letter was based on a much longer and much more detailed letter that GoBike member, Brenda, had written and the funny thing is that there are only 2 public comments on the planning application portal – one from Brenda and one from GoBike! Thus, if public comment counts for anything, this planning application will be rejected ….

Here’s the acknowledgement letter that was received on 02 October.

3.3 Multiplex University of Glasgow Campus Development – October 2020 Newsletter

Here’s the link to this month’s newsletter, received on 06 October.

3.4 City Deal Renfrewshire, Glasgow Airport Investment Area – traffic management works second phase

Here’s the update we received on 07 October:

Note that because of the nature of the works the bridge will be closed to people walking and cycling – it’s a popular route for cycling so do please be aware and plan your route accordingly.

3.5 Glasgow City Council, 08 October, confirmation of speed cushion installation on 2 schemes, Newlands Park and Greenfield Road Area

Here’s that photograph again confirming that we heard on 08 October that these 2 schemes will go ahead as proposed; details were first in Digest 66. Item 1.9 for Greenfield Road and Digest 67, Item 1.12 for the Newlands Park area. However we are informed that for the Newlands Park area “During the consultation process, it was highlighted by residents that they felt St Bride’s Road should be included within this scheme in order to avoid it becoming a potential rat run. I can advise that a standalone, formal consultation process will be undertaken for this location.” This demonstrates that the Council is listening to people who ask the right things!

3.6 North Lanarkshire – East Airdrie Link Road: Active Travel Stakeholder Group, report of 30 July meeting

In Digest 66, Item 3.3, was news of North Lanarkshire’s Active Travel Stakeholder Group and GoBike member, Derek Y, has now received minutes of the meeting of 30 July. There’s a lot of information included so if your leisure, work or general interest takes you into North Lanarkshire, do please have a look.

3.7 North Lanarkshire – City Deal funding approved for Ravenscraig Infrastructure Access project

Here’s the latest, received on 08 October, from North Lanarkshire and the City Deal project that we have reported on before. Let’s hope that pressure builds for active travel in the area, with the current construction activity:

“Funding approved for Ravenscraig project

Investment of £61.9 million for the Ravenscraig Infrastructure Access (RIA) project has been approved by the Glasgow City Region Cabinet.

We are matching this with £65.3 million over six years to create new and improved transport infrastructure connecting Ravenscraig north to the M8 and south to Motherwell and the M74. A total of £127.2 million is therefore being invested.

This includes:

• a new dual carriageway from the Ravenscraig Regional Sports Facility to Motherwell, crossing the west coast main line railway, with new provision for walking, cycling and wheeling throughout;
• a new roundabout with traffic signals at Airbles Road and Windmillhill Street, connecting to the dual carriageway;
• completion of the dualling of Airbles Road; and
• the dualling of the A723 from Ravenscraig to the M8.

The RIA is a key component part of the council’s Plan Lanarkshire Orbital Route, combined with investment currently underway at Motherwell Town Centre Interchange and the future East Airdrie Link Road, to create a transformational road and infrastructure travel spine through North Lanarkshire.

The Pan Lanarkshire Orbital Route will improve connectivity from Motherwell to Cumbernauld across a range of transport modes and support better movement between towns and communities. It will create an active travel highway for cyclists, runners and walkers to navigate safely across the area. These plans will impact positively on the environment and road safety locally, removing traffic congestion points in neighbouring communities, such as the A73 at Chapelhall, and helping to improve air quality.

Within  the Ravenscraig site itself, the RIA is one of a number of infrastructure projects the council is working to deliver, including a new seven hectare park which is currently under construction and, working with Sustrans, plans for new cycling and walking links to Craigneuk, Wishaw and New College Lanarkshire Motherwell campus.

The regeneration of the overall Ravenscraig site is a key element of the council’s vision for the area, which will see £3.5 billion invested over the next 10 years, creating around 12,000  jobs and generating an additional £1 billionfor the local economy.

“Despite the coronavirus pandemic, we are continuing to invest in the future of North Lanarkshire, with a clear plan for economic growth,” said Des Murray, Chief Executive of North Lanarkshire Council.

“Ravenscraig is an important part of our long-term plan as it will bring new homes, schools, businesses, jobs and leisure facilities over the next 25 years. To achieve this, we must invest in new roads and active travel improvements, including cycle routes and public transport links – the Ravenscraig Infrastructure Access project will deliver that.

“Overall, the Pan Lanarkshire Orbital Transport Corridor will transform the way we use our transport network, encouraging healthy active travel options, creating new opportunities for development and digital infrastructure along the route, and creating potential for low carbon energy networks.

“With the funding from Glasgow City Region City Deal secured, we can now move forward with this exciting new project to transform derelict land into vibrant new communities for the people of North Lanarkshire.”

UK Government Minister Iain Stewart said: “I am pleased the regeneration and transformation of Ravenscraig has reached another milestone. This project is essential to the future prosperity of the region and is a fantastic example of how the Glasgow City Region Deal is improving transport links and developing communities. 

“The UK Government has now committed more than £1.5 billion to City Region and Growth Deals across Scotland, creating jobs, opportunities, and sustainable growth.”

Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity Michael Matheson said: “The infrastructure created aims to meet the active travel needs of residents, alongside improving road infrastructure, to facilitate the regeneration of Ravenscraig and contribute to creating the environment for a healthy and vibrant community to thrive.

“The Scottish Government is a full partner in the Glasgow City Region City Deal, contributing £500 million over 20 years to the Infrastructure Investment Fund. This is a significant development within the Glasgow City Region Deal, demonstrating once again how Scottish Government investment supports transformative projects such as this.”

The next stage in the RIA project will be submission of a planning application for the southern connections to Motherwell and the M74, which will include a public consultation.

_______________________________________________________________________________

An interesting collection of consultations and feedback, the good, the bad and the ugly – wonder what there will be next?

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. Streets for All Glasgow Commonplace Map, a joint GoBike, Glasgow Eco Trust and On Bikes map, please put in your proposals, comments and views
2. **NEW** South Lanarkshire Council, Have your say on active travel, Carluke, Hamilton and Lanark, online surveys, close 04 October
3. Glasgow City Council, Cleeves Road Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 October
4. Glasgow City Council, Ashgill Road (Extension) Road Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 October
5. Glasgow City Council, Ryehill Road Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 October
6. Glasgow City Council, Ruchazie Road Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 October
7. Glasgow City Council, Victoria Park Drive North Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 October
8. UK Department of Transport, Review of the Highway Code to improve road safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders, closes 27 October
9. **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Connecting Communities, Transport Strategy Public Conversation Your views, closes 30 October
10. Transport Scotland, Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2030 – Draft public consultation, closes 21 December

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. East Dunbartonshire Council, Proposed Local Development Plan 2, consultation starts 19 October

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Glasgow City Council speed cushion policy
2. East Dunbartonshire Council, Local Development Plan Newsletter No 59
3. Glasgow City Council speed cushion latest update!

Section 1: Current Consultations, in date order for responses

1.1 Streets for All Glasgow Commonplace Map, a joint GoBike, Glasgow Eco Trust and On Bikes map, please put in your proposals, comments and views

Back in Digest 55, Item 1.1 in early March, with a reminder in Digest 65, again Item 1.1, we alerted you to the Streets for All Glasgow Commonplace Map, an initiative from GoBike in coordination with Glasgow EcoTrust and On Bikes.

The Streets for All Glasgow Commonplace Map is still open for your contributions. We have longer term aims than the Spaces for People maps, so please do get your fingers tapping and tell us not just where social distancing measures are needed but where dropped kerbs, better crossings, segregation from motor vehicles and all the measures that could improve your cycling experience are needed. We particularly want to make cycling a mode of travel that is available to just about all members of society, young and old.

A speaker from Living Streets, the pedestrians’ organisation, used our feature photo in an online presentation she gave and she had also googled “cyclists” and found this sort of photo:

It’s a fairly standard representation of “cyclists” whereas we would prefer to see more of the sort of people shown in the photos below making their way on bikes, trikes and tandems etc:

Once we have more of your input on the Commonplace map we will then be able to take the comments forward to the City Council in a measured way to make our city a better place to live and move.

2. **NEW** South Lanarkshire Council, Have your say on active travel, Carluke, Hamilton and Lanark, online surveys, close 04 October

GoBike member, Derek, alerted us to these 3 online surveys from South Lanarkshire Council. All the details are in this issue of the South Lanarkshire View. The surveys all close this coming Sunday, so if you live, work, cycle or visit this area do please get your comments in quick! No need to give your personal details so do please help everyone in South Lanarkshire and elsewhere to be able to enjoy cycling and walking in these 3 towns.

1.3 Glasgow City Council, Cleeves Road Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 October

1.4 Glasgow City Council, Ashgill Road (Extension) Road Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 October

1.5 Glasgow City Council, Ryehill Road Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 October

1.6 Glasgow City Council, Ruchazie Road Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 October

1.7 Glasgow City Council, Victoria Park Drive North Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 October

All 5 of the above schemes were featured in our last Digest, Issue 69, items 1.6 to 1.11 and here is the letter of objection to all 5 proposals that GoBike submitted on 15 September.

The letter was copied to Councillor Anna Richardson, City Convener for Sustainability and Carbon Reduction, who has come back to us to say that “I am aware of your concerns around speed cushions, and I will be exploring this aspect of road safety policy.”
Further to the issue of Digest 69, GoBike also had requests for further information on the proposals for Victoria Park Drive North from a local resident, who had supported the proposal for pedestrian crossings and from a member of the local Community Council.

Let’s hope that local residents get their voice heard soon and that we get liveable streets for us all. If you have any concerns about any of the proposals listed in our Digests do please bring them to the attention of your Councillors and/or Community Council.

1.8 UK Department of Transport, Review of the Highway Code to improve road safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders, closes 27 October

We have been raising this consultation for some time now and hope that you have all seen the blog we published last week. If you haven’t read it yet, then please do. It was written by GoBike member, Brenda, who has also written the draft GoBike response, which will be finalised and included in our next Digest; the final one before this consultation closes. It’s important that YOU, a member of the travelling public, do respond, however briefly.

1.9 **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Connecting Communities, Transport Strategy Public Conversation Your views, closes 30 October

GoBike received this email from the City Council on 21 September and your input is requested:

“Hi,
Glasgow’s Public Conversation on our transport future is now live and will run to the 30^th of October. All of the different ways you can participate can be found at https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/connectingcommunities

We would really appreciate if you could take part and also circulate the information to your colleagues and the people that you work with. As the more comments we receive, the greater we can understand what transport issues really matter to the people that live and/or work in Glasgow. There are different ways to participate, to join in the conversation on social media, to read the background information or to take part in the public online events. So please do.

Different ways to participate

• Survey. This will probably take about 20mins to complete and is a mixture of multiple choice and open questions. None of the questions are obligatory and you can skip as many as you want. We can send you a Word version of the survey questions, and a Freephone number is available to take people through it over the phone.
• Transport simulator. This game asks about your transport priorities, and what trade-offs you might be willing to make. It has been designed to be fully accessible for keyboard navigation and screen readers.  

Join in the conversation on social media

• Facebook https://en-gb.facebook.com/GlasgowCC/videos/664348064502551/

–      Twitter https://twitter.com/GlasgowCC/status/1308028504370491392?s=20

–      Use the hashtag #GetAboutGlasgow

Read background information

• Public Conversation document sets out the background to the consultation and the council’s proposals for how to tackle the issues and develop the transport strategies. This document is viewed as a fully accessible pdf.

–      A summary leaflet can be downloaded here

To take part in the public online events
Sign up to the webinars below

• A New Vision for Transport and our City 23^rd September 10am-12pm  
• A New Vision for Transport, People and Place 7^th October 10am -12pm

Thanks very much. Take care. Stay safe.
Regards,
Derek
Derek Dunsire
Group Manager – Liveable Neighbourhoods
Transport Strategy“

The survey is a dream, designed for active travellers’ support. Do enjoy completing it.

1.9 Transport Scotland, Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2030 – Draft public consultation, closes 21 December

This Scotland-wide public consultation was in Digest 69 as Item 1.13, so you may check it out there. We’ll have more on this one before the closing date.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

2.1 East Dunbartonshire Council, Proposed Local Development Plan 2, consultation starts 19 October.

See Item 3.2 below.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Glasgow City Council speed cushion policy

See Item 1.7 above for an acknowledgement from Councillor Anna Richardson, City Convener for Sustainability and Carbon Reduction, that she will look at the City’s speed cushion policy.

3.2 East Dunbartonshire Council, Local Development Plan Newsletter No 59

LDP Newsletter 59 – September 2020 was received on 25 September and contains details of the forthcoming public consultation on the Local Development Plan 2, which starts on 19 October.

3.3 Glasgow City Council speed cushion latest update!

Just in, this afternoon, from the City Council, and further to Item 3.1 above, this email – read on past the standard stuff to the last paragraph – a glimmer of light:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF KEVIN HAMILTON, HEAD OF ROADS, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Ms Fort,

Thank you for your enquiry dated 1^st September 2020 regarding the above proposed schemes.

I can advise that this section within the Council is focused on reducing injury accidents throughout the city. The section has limited funding and resources available to implement traffic calming schemes and in order to make sure these resources are directed at the locations with the greatest potential for casualty reduction, a site risk assessment is undertaken for each request. This process assesses the location against criteria including the history of injury accidents, measured vehicle speeds and the presence of any local amenities such as being close to a nearby school or nursery.

Whilst I appreciate your concerns regarding our proposed traffic calming schemes and note your suggestions for each location, I can advise that your suggestions would involve the re-design of roads, introduction of traffic signals and the promotion of Traffic Regulation Orders as well as a host of other measures. The provision of such measures would involve considerable costs and resources, both of which are unavailable to this section, and I am unable to consider their introduction at this time.

Notwithstanding the above and following discussions with the city convenor for Sustainability and Transport, Councillor Anna Richardson, it should be noted that this Section will seek to introduce alternative forms of traffic calming as oppose to speed cushions from next financial year onwards, subject to available funding and resources.

I trust that this clarifies the current situation.

Kevin Hamilton
Head of Roads
Neighbourhoods And Sustainability“

_______________________________________

With that bit of good news, that’s it for a fortnight but do please respond to:

• South Lanarkshire Council’s surveys for Carluke, Hamilton and Lanark.
• Glasgow City Council’s Transport Strategy
• The Highway Code consultation
• Plus, do keep contacting your Councillors and your Community Council

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. Glasgow City Council, Auchinleck Avenue, Robroyston, Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 17 September
2. Glasgow City Council, Maxwell Drive, Pollokshields, Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 17 September
3. Glasgow City Council, Maxwell Park Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 17 September
4. **NEW** Transport Scotland, Future Public Engagement on Major Road Projects, closes 24 September
5. **NEW** Planning Application 20/02068/FUL, Glasgow Science Centre , closes 25 September
6. Scottish Government, Town Centre Action Plan Expert Review Group, online survey, closes 30 September
7. **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Cleeves Road Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 October
8. **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Ashgill Road (Extension) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 October
9. **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Ryehill Road Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 October
10. **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Ruchazie Road Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 October
11. **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Victoria Park Drive North Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 October
12. UK Department of Transport, Review of the Highway Code to improve road safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders, closes 27 October 2020
13. **NEW” Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2030 – Draft public consultation, closes 31 December

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Glasgow City Council, response on Traffic Calming; their email of 01 September
2. Multiplex University of Glasgow Campus Development – September 2020 Newsletter

Section 1: Current Consultations, in date order for responses

1.1 Glasgow City Council, Auchinleck Avenue, Robroyston, Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 17 September

This speed cushion proposal which closes this Thursday, first appeared as Item 1.6 in Digest 68. GoBike submitted this one letter of objection for this and 4 other similar proposals on 01 September.
There’s still time for you to add your voice; you might prefer the rat-running motor traffic to use the new roads that have been built rather then the avenues through the residential area? The email address to write to is LESTraffic@glasgow.gov.uk.

1.2 Glasgow City Council, Maxwell Drive, Pollokshields, Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 17 September

Maxwell Drive appeared as Item 1.7 in Digest 68 and was included in the same letter of objection as Auchinleck Avenue.
Do email in to the address on the letter, ie LESTraffic@glasgow.gov.uk if you would prefer the cycle lanes to be upgraded, rather than half-covered by speed cushions.

1.3 Glasgow City Council, Maxwell Park Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 17 September

This proposal, covering Fotheringay Road, Springkell Avenue and Dolphin Road, featured as Item 1.8 in Digest 68 and was included in the same letter of objection as the 2 items above.
If, like local GoBike member, John, you would prefer traffic here to be calmed as a Liveable, or Low Traffic, Neighbourhood, with modal filters preventing through motor traffic, then please do write in to LESTraffic@glasgow.gov.uk, today or tomorrow, certainly by 17:00 hours on Thursday.

1.4 **NEW** Transport Scotland, Future Public Engagement on Major Road Projects, closes 24 September

2 weeks ago Transport Scotland placed adverts in the national press, and possibly elsewhere, advertising their new public engagement methods and they want our views on how they might work for us. Here’s the link: https://www.transport.gov.scot/future-public-engagement/ and, if you click on it you can see a run-through of the A9 dualling (pictured here) and details of other schemes. There is also information as to how they have kept working during the pandemic and there’s a nice picture of a member of staff working away at the dining room table with her daughter also keeping busy at her wee table. Aah, domestic bliss!
Please do have a look at this; it’s very professionally done and do fill out the feedback form. Make care, though, to download and save the form before filling it in. Filling it out online and then saving it just leaves you with an empty form!
Increasing public access to consultation on such schemes should lead to better public scrutiny of Transport Scotland, not just why are they spending so much of our money on the A9 (even with a cycle route alongside) rather than the A83, but where’s the spending on public transport and active travel?

1.5 **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Planning Application 20/02068/FUL, Public Realm Improvement Works Glasgow Science Centre, closes 25 September

GoBike member, Brenda, alerted us to this one; it’s a Planning Application for public realm improvement works with associated alterations to the road layout and car park. Her route to cross the Clyde takes her from Paisley Road West to Pacific Drive to Millennium Bridge (the newish bridge at the Science Centre) to the cycle route along the north side of the Clyde and then points east, west and north. It’s a busy route, too, with people using the Millennium Bridge rather than Bell’s Bridge since the tube overbridge from the SEC to Finnieston Station is still closed.

The cycle route currently goes straight from Pacific Drive to the bridge; the plan is to reduce the convenience of the route! It’s not clear which guidance on cycling the planners have been following but here’s the GoBike letter of objection to the proposals.

1.6 Scottish Government, Town Centre Action Plan Expert Review Group, online survey, closes 30 September

This public consultation has been in each Digest since Digest 66, Item 1.4 and GoBike’s comment letter was submitted before the written submission deadline of 21 August but the online survey is still open. Do please complete this quick and easy survey to support moves to make our town centres people-centric, rather than car-centric.

Items 1.7 – 1.11 Traffic Calming Consultations, 5 more from Glasgow City Council

GoBike has now sent 2 letters of objection to this season’s traffic calming by the use of speed cushions. The first, covering Gartocher Road, Prospecthill Circus, Ladyloan Avenue (extension), Warriston Street and Greenfield Road, was sent in on 18 August, earlier in the day before Digest 67 was published.
The second, covering Hermiston Road, Muirhead Road, Newlands Park Area, Auchinleck Avenue, Maxwell Drive and the Maxwell Park Area was submitted on 01 September at 10:14, some 8 hours before Digest 68 was issued.
At 11:25 that same morning, a reply from GCC to our letter of 18 August arrived. The text of that email was included in Digest 68 as an extra item between 1.8 and 1.9, but is repeated in this Digest, with some comment, as Item 3.1 below.

Let’s move on to look at the next 5, which all arrived on Thursday 10 September. The standard email is used and thus we only note here how many cushions and how many bollards are proposed. The plans are also attached.
Here’s the GoBike letter of response to the 5, but please do add your view, particularly is you live, work or cycle on any of them.

1.7 **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Cleeves Road Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 October

The scheme proposes:

• 1 set of 3 x 2m wide speed cushions
• 5 sets of 2 x 2m wide speed cushions
• The supply and installation of 12 bollards

The drawings are:

RS.20.69-Cleeves-Road-Traffic-Calming-Proposals
Cleeves-Road-Section-1-Btwn-Cleeves-Quadrant-and-number-195
Cleeves-Road-Section-2-Between-number-129-and-west-of-number-65
Cleeves-Road-Section-3-Between-number-77-and-west-of-Glenmuir-Drive

Cleeves Road runs past a primary school and between Nitshill Road and Glenmuir Drive, giving access to the school from both. Why isn’t this made into a car free school zone with modal filters preventing the road being used as a rat run?

Cleeves Quadrant, just to the south, was proposed for speed cushions last September, see Digest 42, Item 1.4 and GoBike opposed that move. Our alternative was to put in a modal filter, but one can only guess that motor drivers are now resorting to Cleeves Road to avoid the cushions (perhaps they do work?) or there was speeding on both roads but the City Council could only do one each year.

1.8 **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Ashgill Road (Extension) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 October

Speed cushions were proposed for Ashgill Road in November 2019 for the area around the Recreation Centre. They are now proposed for the section running north as far as Scaraway Street.

The scheme proposes:

• The installation of 38 speed cushions
• The supply and installation of 38 bollards

The drawings are:

Ashgill-Road-Full-view-of-proposals
Ashgill-Road-Section-1-Between-Scaraway-St-and-number-527
Ashgill-Road-Section-2-Between-number-511-and-north-of-Shillay-Street
Ashgill-Road-Section-3-Between-number-475-and-south-of-number-455
Ashgill-Road-Section-4-Between-south-of-Colston-Road-and-north-of-number-377

Look, though, a dual carriageway, and quite a gradient downhill on the left in the photo. It’s quite scary, too, to cycle down that left-hand side. The hatched lines are, presumably, to deter traffic and push it all into the right-hand lane. However, if you cycle there, won’t motor traffic simply undertake?
Ashgill Road is only a dual carriageway for this section, from the Recreation/Community Centre north to the junction with Scaraway Street, but a simpler solution, by far, would be to make the inside lanes into Covid-19 type pop-up cycle lanes. Restricting motor traffic to one lane in each direction would automatically reduce speeds.

1.9 **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Ryehill Road Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 October

As may be seen from the map above Barmulloch is more or less a self-contained area bounded by Broomfield Road in the west Wallacewell Road in the north, Robroyston Park in the east and the M80 in the south. Plus, Ryehill Road forms the east side of an oval circuit with Rye Road forming the west. It is the southern part of Ryehill Road, running downhill to the roundabout, where motor traffic speeds are excessive, but why can’t the whole area be treated as a Liveable Neighbourhood?

The scheme proposes:

• The installation of 12 speed cushions
• The supply and installation of 8 bollards

There is just one drawing:

RS.20.66-Ryehill-Road-Traffic-Calming-Proposals

1.10 **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Ruchazie Road Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 October

Ruchazie Road runs north to south from Gartcraig Road down across Edinburgh Road to Cardowan Road and is quite steep in parts. Why is motor traffic using this route and exceeding the speed limit? It must be rat-running. There are alternative routes, which are indicated on street maps etc as higher up the streets category, the nearest of these being Carntynehall Road just to the west, so why can’t Ruchazie Road be closed to through motor traffic?

The scheme proposes:

• The installation of 40 speed cushions
• The supply and installation of 26 bollards

There are 8 drawings:

RS.20.65-Ruchazie-Road-Traffic-Calming-Proposals-Full-view-of-proposals
Ruchazie-Rd-Section-1-Btwn-Gartcraig-Road-and-Fettes-Street
Ruchazie-Rd-Section-2-Btwn-north-of-Loretto-St-and-north-of-Warriston-St
Ruchazie-Road-Section-3-Btwn-north-of-Morningside-Street-and-north-of-Edinburgh-Road
Ruchazie-Road-Section-4-Btwn-number-307-and-number-280
Ruchazie-Road-Section-5-Btwn-Haymarket-Street-and-south-of-Whitburn-Street
Ruchazie-Road-Section-6-Between-number-222-and-number-201
Ruchazie-Road-Section-7-Between-Cardowan-Road-and-Newington-Street

1.11 **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Victoria Park Drive North Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 October

The proposal from the City Council relates to the double mini roundabout in the centre of the map above and proposes:

• The installation of 9 speed cushions
• The installation of 8 bollards
• The widening of the existing pedestrian refuge islands at the double mini-roundabouts.

3 roads will be affected:

• Danes Drive
• Victoria Park Drive North
• Westland Drive

There is just 1 drawing:
RS.20.37-Danes-Drive-updated-traffic-calming-proposals-Full-junction-proposals

But, wait a minute, isn’t this just the place where, in April 2019 there was a mini Pedal on Parliament event? Yes, it was and it was organised by GoBike member, Andy. See the link for details and here’s the link to the Facebook event he set up.

Local residents, “road users” all, were, and are, looking for a zebra/pelican crossing here to enable everyone to get to the park safely, to get to school and nursery, and everywhere else, safely. Andy told me at the weekend that when he was collecting his youngest child from nursery last week and the child was on the back of his bike, they met a woman in a wheelchair trying to cross the junction. There wasn’t room for the bike and the wheelchair on one of the central pedestrian refuges at the same time – at least this might be addressed by the proposals.

Here are the proposals put forward at the time, developed by the Glasgow Eco Trust:

Here again, is the GoBike letter of response to the above 5 schemes.

1.12 UK Department of Transport, Review of the Highway Code to improve road safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders, closes 27 October 2020

We are still working on this but we have a blog almost ready to publish that details the major points so that you, yes YOU, can submit a response. Please do.

1.13 **NEW” Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2030 – Draft public consultation, closes 01 December

When searching for details of Item 1.4, the Transport Scotland, Future Public Engagement on Major Road Projects consultation, this item was seen and it seems to be very pertinent to those of us who cycle. Here are some words from the Transport Scotland website:

“Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2020 ends on 31 December. Although Scotland’s road casualties are at the lowest levels since records began, to achieve the further 50% reduction in People Killed and Seriously Injured by 2030, as recommended by the United Nations and the European Union, a step change in road safety delivery is required. In response to the above challenge and in partnership with the road safety community and key stakeholders the Scottish Government has developed this draft Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2030 to strengthen Scotland’s position as a world leader in road safety, out for public consultation from 8 September until 1 December.“

Whoever wrote that surely can’t have cycled through Glasgow when it’s busy! It doesn’t seem too safe, does it? This is one we all need to feed into and we will be publishing more before the closing date.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

A round zero this fortnight.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Glasgow City Council, response on Traffic Calming; their email of 01 September

On 18 August GoBike sent this letter to the City Council objecting to 5 traffic calming schemes. The email reply below was received a fortnight later on 01 September just a few hours before our last Digest was issued and, although we included the words, we did not make any comment. Here’s the email again, with some underlining by GoBike and comments below:

“I can advise that this section within the Council is focused on reducing injury accidents throughout the city. The section has limited funding and resources available (1) to implement traffic calming schemes and in order to make sure these resources are directed at the locations with the greatest potential for casualty reduction, a site risk assessment is undertaken for each request. This process assesses the location against criteria including the history of injury accidents, measured vehicle speeds and the presence of any local amenities such as being close to a nearby school or nursery.

I can further advise that in our experience, cushions with a width of 1800mm or less have little impact (2) in reducing the speed of vehicles travelling over them. Previously, this has led to complaints by local road users (3) following the installation of cushions as they consider them to be ineffective. It is therefore our intention to propose cushions of no less than 1900mm and no greater than 2000m for all future traffic calming schemes, depending on the available width of the carriageway.

I can also advise that the Local Transport Note for Traffic Calming (LTN 1/07), which gives guidance on the design, effectiveness and installation of traffic calming measures, states that “Distances between cushions, or cushions and the kerb, should not generally exceed 1200mm, (4) with 1000mm as an ideal maximum. These dimensions are designed to deter drivers of small vehicles from attempting to drive in the gap.” Whilst we would always aim for 1000mm, the gap between cushions and the kerb is likely to differ at each location depending on the available width of the carriageway.

Whilst I appreciate your concerns regarding our proposed traffic calming schemes and note your suggestions for each location, I can advise that your suggestions would involve the re-design of roads, introduction of traffic signals and the promotion of Traffic Regulation Orders as well as a host of other measures. The provision of such measures would involve considerable costs and resources, both of which are unavailable to this section, and I am unable to consider their introduction at this time.(5)

I trust that this clarifies the current situation.

Kevin Hamilton
Head of Roads Neighbourhoods And Sustainability”

GoBike responses:

1. Funding within Glasgow City Council is curious and it has been impossible to ascertain any cycling and active travel budget, but it seems there is not sufficient money to make our streets suitable for use.
2. Our letter of 18 August commented that in 1998, soon after the introduction of speed cushions, a width of 1.6-1.7m was recommended to minimise discomfort to ambulance and bus passengers. We also stated that current private motor vehicles are now so wide that cushions are also wider, so is no consideration now given to patients in ambulances?
3. The email refers to “local road users”, which is just what we are! Sadly, they appear not to listen to us.
4. The gap at the kerb should not exceed 1200mm; this is why we used to get a gap of this width. Now we are lucky to get more than 500mm.
5. Safe roads are expensive then? We have looked at the City Council’s proposals for Liveable Neighbourhoods and how convenient that Sustrans have £3m Government, ie our, money to provide for the update of the Council’s Strategies. Let’s hope that they have budgeted for works on the ground!

3.2 Multiplex University of Glasgow Campus Development – September 2020 Newsletter

Here’s a link to this month’s newsletter, received on 07 September.

__________________________________________________________

That’s it for now, but with holiday weekends coming up – that city in east this coming weekend and Glasgow 25-28 September, there might be a delay in the publication of Digest 70. If you do get some time off work, please enjoy it safely and carefully.

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. **NEW** SCVO charity awards, vote for Living Streets Pavement Parking Campaign online, closes 04 September
2. Glasgow City Council, Hermiston Road (Shettleston) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 September
3. Glasgow City Council, Muirhead Road (Baillieston) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 09 September
4. Glasgow City Council, Newlands Park Area Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 09 September
5. South Lanarkshire Council, Hamilton, Abercorn Drive and Chestnut Crescent, Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 11 September
6. **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Auchinleck Avenue, Robroyston, Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 17 September
7. **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Maxwell Drive, Pollokshields, Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 17 September
8. **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Maxwell Park Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 22 September
   **Additional Item: Glasgow City Council response on Traffic Calming**
9. Scottish Government, Town Centre Action Plan Expert Review Group, online survey, closes 30 September
10. UK Department of Transport, Review of the Highway Code to improve road safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders, closes 27 October 2020

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. South Lanarkshire Council, East Kilbride cycling routes
2. Glasgow City Council, Transport Strategy, City Centre Transformation Strategy and Liveable Neighbourhoods Plan consultation commences 21 September
3. North Lanarkshire Council, new roads to Ravenscraig

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. GoBike Digest Survey results
2. Glasgow City Council, Helensburgh Drive Traffic Calming, 1 year on
3. North Lanarkshire Council, New Road Plans on the Agenda!
4. East Dunbartonshire Council, Local Development Plan Newsletter No 58
5. Glasgow City Council, Renewal of Planning Consent, Glasgow Harbour, initial response
6. Scottish Government, Response to Town Centre Action Plan Review submission
7. Glasgow City Council, Govan Partick Strategic Development Framework consultation update
8. Glasgow City Council, Draft River Strategic Development Framework consultation update

Section 1: Current Consultations, in date order for responses

1.1 **NEW** SCVO charity awards, vote for Living Streets Pavement Parking Campaign online, closes this Friday, 04 September

GoBike supported moves to ban pavement parking and, as we reported in Digest 65, Item 3.4, we are bitterly disappointed that the new legislation has not yet come into effect. Living Streets played a pivotal role in the campaign for the ban. Tricia is a personal member of Living Streets and here’s the email sent out to the organisation’s members on 17 August:

“Living Streets Scotland’s
pavement parking campaign has been nominated for the SCVO charity awards

Dear member,

Living Streets is thrilled to have been nominated for the SCVO charity awards for our work on pavement parking in Scotland.

The ban in October 2019 was the culmination of over a decade of campaigning by Living Streets Scotland and disability charities, and we could not have done it without your support – thank you!

The Scottish Charity Awards recognise the best of the voluntary sector in Scotland, and our nomination recognises the 10-year campaign led by Living Streets and the Responsible Parking Campaign. 

Now we need your votes!
Members of the public can have their say and vote for their favourite campaign. 

VOTE FOR LIVING STREETS

In the meantime, it is clear that speed cushions are not an effective measure:

• they either push bikes into the gutter or into the centre of the road rather than allowing riders to maintain a primary position on the road
• many current vehicles are so wide that, even as larger and larger speed cushions are used, they can straddle the cushions necessitating only a minimal reduction in speed, if any
• they do not prevent motor drivers using residential streets as rat runs
• they deteriorate, as shown on the feature photo for this Digest and again in Item 3.2 below
• we are not aware of any evidence that speed cushions reduce maximum speeds or make roads safer for people to cross them

The points above plus the prospect of a Liveable Neighbourhoods Plan for Glasgow form the basis of this letter that GoBike has just sent to Glasgow City Council in respect of the 6 schemes and the letter sent to South Lanarkshire Council featured in Item 1.5 below.

1.2 Glasgow City Council, Hermiston Road (Shettleston) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 September

This was included as Item 1.10 in Digest 67 and given that Hermiston Road is just 2 streets to the west of Greenfield Road, also proposed for the speed cushion treatment, see Item 1.8 in Digest 67, which, in turn runs parallel to the main road, Springboig Road, it seems sensible to address this area as a “liveable neighbourhood”, see Item 2.2 below. Both roads are being used as alternatives to Springboig Road and we suggest that a series of modal filters be installed to prevent motor traffic using the area as a short cut.

1.3 Glasgow City Council, Muirhead Road (Baillieston) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 09 September

Muirhead Road featured as Item 1.11 in Digest 67 and this is not as obvious a rat run. However, if the road were closed to through motor traffic, apart from buses and emergency vehicles, at the railway station, then the road would be quieter. Motor traffic would still have the option of, north of the railway, access via Glasgow Road / Main Street to Glasgow and the motorway system and south of the railway, where there is a lot of residential development, access to Glasgow and the motorway system via Boghall Road. Significant amounts of public money have been spent on motorway construction in this area and motor traffic should be directed towards it.

1.4 Glasgow City Council, Newlands Park Area Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 09 September

The Newlands Park scheme was Item 1.12 in Digest 67 and is presumably proposed to stop vehicles speeding as they try to cut through from Merrylee Road to Kilmarnock Road. The roads being proposed for speed cushion treatment are Beverley Road, Calderwood Road, Carlaverock Road and Lubnaig Road. This is an affluent area so probably many of the motors will be large enough to glide over the cushions with little, if any, discomfort to the passengers. Reducing traffic overall with a series of modal filters would be a far more fitting solution.

1.5 South Lanarkshire Council, Hamilton, Abercorn Drive and Chestnut Crescent, Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 11 September

Digest 67 featured this proposal as Item 1.13 and here’s the link to the details. Last October in Digest 46 we publicised proposals for a modal filter on Silvertonhill Avenue, which we very much supported. However, it seems that the residents do not wish to lose their freedom for uncontrolled road use and the current proposals are for speed cushions and parking restrictions.
The survey is, apparently, limited to local residents, but if you do wish to comment just enter the street you live in and hope to proceed.

Here is the letter of concerned objection that GoBike has submitted today.

1.6 **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Auchinleck Avenue Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 17 September

This area of Robroyston is just to the north of the M80 and the shopping area, with carparks of course, which includes the Robroyston Asda. A vast amount of public money has been spent on the roads in this area, not just the M80, but all the connecting roads such as the new roundabout and all the roads to the south of the motorway, where many new houses are being built. There’s the new station too, but are there cycle lanes to it? Shared footways south of the motorway and nothing to the north of the motorway, which isn’t really the way to encourage active travel. It’s a bit scary on the bike round here.

Even with all the new roads, drivers still want a short cut and are cutting through this residential area. Surely the obvious answer is to get them to use these expensive roads by putting modal filters on these 2 roads?

However, the City Council propose speed cushions and here’s the specific detail from their email of 20 August:

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

• 7 sets of 3 (differing width) speed cushions
• 9 sets of 2 (differing width) speed cushions
• The supply and installation of 32 bollards

Please provide any comments you wish to make on these proposals within 28 days. 
Please reply directly to LESTraffic@glasgow.gov.uk.“

The 6 plans attached are:
Auchinleck-Avenue-TC-Proposals
Auchinleck-Avenue-TC-Proposals-Section-1-Btwn-roundabout-and-north-of-Cumnock-Rd
Auchinleck-Avenue-TC-Proposals-Section-2-Btwn-north-of-Cumnock-Rd-and-east-of-Pathead-Gardens
Auchinleck-Avenue-TC-Proposals-Section-3-Btwn-west-of-Glenbuck-Drive-and-north-of-Saughs-Avenue
Auchinleck-Avenue-TC-Proposals-Section-4-Btwn-Saughs-Avenue-and-south-of-Auchinleck-Avenue
Auchinleck-Avenue-TC-Proposals-Section-5-Saughs-Avenue

The cushion spacing varies from a kerbside gap of 0.5 to 1.0m, making it tricky to maintain a primary position of about 1.0m from the kerb without going over the cushions. 2 modal filters, one on the north and one on the south part of the Auchinleck Avenue loop would be much less expensive and time consuming to install and might even encourage residents to cycle to Asda!

1.7 **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Maxwell Drive Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 17 September

Maxwell Drive in Pollokshields, Glasgow, is a wide road and, if you look carefully at the photograph below, it’s just possible to see a cycle lane painted on the road – it’s under the parked cars, so no surprise there!

The email from the City Council, received on 20 August, contains this critical information:

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

• 2 sets of 3 x 2m wide cushions
• 2 sets of 4 x 2m wide cushions
• 4 sets of 3 x 1.9m wide cushions
• 1 set of 4 x 1.9m wide cushions
• The supply and installation of 22 bollards

Please provide any comments you wish to make on these proposals within 28 days.    
Please reply directly to LESTraffic@glasgow.gov.uk.”

The plans attached to the email are:
Maxwell-Drive-TC-proposals-Section-1-Btwn-St-Andrews-Drive-and-Maxwell-Grove
Maxwell-Drive-TC-proposals-Section-2-Between-Maxwell-Gardens-and-east-of-Woodrow-Road
Maxwell-Drive-TC-proposals-Section-3-Btwn-west-of-Woodrow-Rd-and-east-of-Woodrow-Pl
Maxwell-Drive-TC-Proposals-Section-4-Btwn-number-106-and-number-136
Maxwell-Drive-TC-proposals-Section-5-Btwn-number-152-and-Nithsdale-Rd

Reinstating the cycle lanes would be a start here and, at a decent width with any parking on the outside, the width of the road would be reduced such that traffic would move more slowly. With separated cycle lanes people walking or cycling would have some protection from the motor traffic thus making the area much safer.
Unfortunately, the plans fail to show that there have ever been cycle lanes here and the kerb to cushion dimensions vary between 0.6 and 1.0m width.

1.8 **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Maxwell Park Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 22 September

This proposal covers Fotheringay Road from Darnley Road west to Springkell Avenue, Springkell Avenue from the railway south to Titwood Road and Dolphin Road from Fotheringay Road to Titwood Road.

The City Council’s email arrived on 25 August and here is the critical section of it:

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

• 5 sets of 3 x 2m wide, 75mm high, speed cushions on Dolphin Road,
• 6 sets of 3 x 2m wide, 75mm high, speed cushions on Fotheringay Road,
• 11 sets of 3x 2m wide, 75mm high, speed cushions on Springkell Avenue
• The installation of bollards beside the proposed speed cushions.

Please provide any comments you wish to make on these proposals within 28 days.
Please reply directly to LESTraffic@glasgow.gov.uk“

Here are the relevant plans:
RS.19.96-Maxwell-Park-proposals-Dolphin-Road
RS.19.96-Maxwell-Park-proposals-Fotheringay-Road-section-1
RS.19.96-Maxwell-Park-proposals-Fotheringay-Road-section-2
RS.19.96-Maxwell-Park-proposals-Fotheringay-Road-section-3
RS.19.96-Maxwell-Park-proposals-Fotheringay-Road-section-4
RS.19.96-Maxwell-Park-proposals-Springkell-Avenue-section-1
RS.19.96-Maxwell-Park-proposals-Springkell-Avenue-section-2

From the plans it may be seen that the kerb to cushion gap varies from 0.7m to 1.0m, but this width, as may be seen from the view of Fotheringay Road above, is no use for cycling if you have to bump over setts. The alternatives are to either cycle 3m out from the kerb, or to cycle on the footway (tut, tut) to avoid the cushions.

GoBike member, John, who lives in the area and who has young children, would by far prefer to see traffic reduced by a series of modal filters and he refers to the speed cushions on nearby Terregles Avenue which are starting to break up. Some of you will know that Springkell Avenue was closed to motor traffic for quite some time when the railway bridge was reconstructed and Dolphin Road was stopped up for a year during the Shieldhall Tunnel works and John reports that the area was very pleasant at the time with only a modicum of motor traffic.

Additional Item: Glasgow City Council response on Traffic Calming

In Digest 67, in the general item 1.4 to 1.8, we published this letter in response to 5 traffic calming schemes. Today, 01 September, we have received this very disappointing response:

MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF KEVIN HAMILTON, HEAD OF ROADS, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Ms Fort,
Thank you for your undernoted enquiry.

I can advise that this section within the Council is focused on reducing injury accidents throughout the city. The section has limited funding and resources available to implement traffic calming schemes and in order to make sure these resources are directed at the locations with the greatest potential for casualty reduction, a site risk assessment is undertaken for each request. This process assesses the location against criteria including the history of injury accidents, measured vehicle speeds and the presence of any local amenities such as being close to a nearby school or nursery.

I can further advise that in our experience, cushions with a width of 1800mm or less have little impact in reducing the speed of vehicles travelling over them. Previously, this has led to complaints by local road users following the installation of cushions as they consider them to be ineffective. It is therefore our intention to propose cushions of no less than 1900mm and no greater than 2000m for all future traffic calming schemes, depending on the available width of the carriageway.

I can also advise that the Local Transport Note for Traffic Calming (LTN 1/07), which gives guidance on the design, effectiveness and installation of traffic calming measures, states that “Distances between cushions, or cushions and the kerb, should not generally exceed 1200mm, with 1000mm as an ideal maximum. These dimensions are designed to deter drivers of small vehicles from attempting to drive in the gap.” Whilst we would always aim for 1000mm, the gap between cushions and the kerb is likely to differ at each location depending on the available width of the carriageway.

Whilst I appreciate your concerns regarding our proposed traffic calming schemes and note your suggestions for each location, I can advise that your suggestions would involve the re-design of roads, introduction of traffic signals and the promotion of Traffic Regulation Orders as well as a host of other measures. The provision of such measures would involve considerable costs and resources, both of which are unavailable to this section, and I am unable to consider their introduction at this time.

I trust that this clarifies the current situation.

Kevin Hamilton
Head of Roads, Neighbourhoods And Sustainability

This response is disappointing, not simply because it ignores some of our arguments, not simply because this department of Glasgow City Council does not have the funds to make thorough improvements to the city but also because the Scottish Government et al are still spending large amounts of public money, ie our money, on such private motor dominated schemes as the dualling of the A9 and the City Deal projects that North Lanarkshire is so keen on.

1.9 Scottish Government, Town Centre Action Plan Expert Review Group, online survey, closes 30 September

No doubt you have seen increased use of public space during lockdown, not just with more people cycling but exercise classes being held in public parks and, if we are very lucky, or perhaps with good planning and management, we can get this to continue.

In Digest 66, Item 1.4 we gave details of this survey and in Digest 67, Item 1.3, was the GoBike letter in response to the questions posed on the website, which had to be submitted by 21 August. Also on the website is a link to a short, easy-to-do survey, where you may support your views for people-friendly urban centres. Do please respond to it (I have already done so, on a personal basis, and going back to the site tells me so, but the survey is easy to find on the opening page of the website).

1.10 UK Department of Transport, Review of the Highway Code to improve road safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders, closes 27 October 2020

We are working away on our response to this consultation and hope to be able to publish it later this month.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

2.1 South Lanarkshire Council, East Kilbride cycling routes

GoBike member, Derek, attended the South Lanarkshire Cycling Partnership meeting on 24 August and reports that segregated cycle lanes are to be consulted on for East Kilbride. There are no details as yet, but as soon as we hear we will let you know.

2.2 Glasgow City Council, Transport Strategy, City Centre Transformation Strategy and Liveable Neighbourhoods Plan consultation commences 21 September

On Bikes, based in the north-east of Glasgow, recently held an event at which a Sustrans officer, currently embedded with Glasgow City Council, told the audience that consultation on the City Council’s Transport Strategy, City Centre Transformation Strategy and Liveable Neighbourhoods Plan would commence on 21 September and will last for 6 weeks. GoBike will be looking out for these and will report back in the Digest.

All 3 are about “prioritising people over traffic” but what is the Liveable Neighbourhoods Plan? It was reported on in this document from the City Council’s City Administration Committee and the pertinent information is on page 4 in sections 3.8 and 3.9. Here they are:

“3.8 The Liveable Neighbourhoods Plan (LNP) for Glasgow aims to reduce the city’s dependency on cars and make walking, cycling and public transport the first choice. It is essential that our residents benefit from safer, quieter streets that facilitate play, walking and cycling. Through a place-based approach, the LNP will help to limit the city’s contribution to climate change and develop an inclusive network of accessible and revitalised neighbourhoods designed for the benefit of all, with integrated green infrastructure and enhanced public spaces.

3.9 This will be achieved through a variety of physical interventions and behavioural change measures including filtered permeability, traffic reduction around schools, improvements for walking and cycling, secure bike storage and management of residential parking. Through collaborative and purposeful engagement, the LNP will transform streets and neighbourhoods into more pleasant, safe and attractive environments with noise and air pollution being tackled through measures that encourage active travel, helping to reduce
inactivity and ultimately improve public health. Progress towards making sure our neighbourhoods are more protective, comfortable, and enjoyable for people spending time there will be measured through inclusive mechanisms such as the Place Standard Too“

It sounds wonderful, doesn’t it? The cynic might ask whether the rush to get all the speed cushions in is to clear a shed load of them before the enlightened thinking comes into play. The 2 Strategies are detailed in the same document.

2.3 North Lanarkshire Council, new roads to Ravenscraig

See item 3.3 below for consultation details.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 GoBike Digest Survey results

Thank you to everyone who took the time to complete our recent Digest survey. Overall people appreciate the Digest, and recognise its value. Not surprisingly people expressed particular interest in consultations in their own area, and would welcome template responses to help them respond more quickly to consultations. Some respondents find the Digest rather lengthy, but again recognise this might be due to the number of consultations.
Many apologies – this Digest is particularly long, so thank you for reading this far!

Please do get in touch with us via consultations@gobike.org, if you were one of the respondents who said they’d possibly be interested in helping to produce the Digest or respond to the consultations (which most of you did – which is great!)

Tricia, the current author of the Digest, is standing down from this role in November, and we are looking for several GoBike members to collectively keep the Digest going. Whether you responded to the survey or not please get in touch via consultations@gobike.org if you are interested in being involved – and for all those interested we will arrange a zoom call to outline the different roles/pieces of work involved in creating the Digest – we look forward to hearing from you. (The survey was completely anonymous, so we don’t know who you are!)

If you are looking for a quick way to respond to consultations, GoBike responds on behalf of its members (and we hope we are getting it right!) So GoBike’s letters are your letters and you may either simply email the contact address and say that you agree with and support the GoBike letter of (date) or attach a copy of the letter to your response.

3.2 Glasgow City Council, Helensburgh Drive Traffic Calming, 1 year on

In Digest 42, issued 03 September 2019, Item 1.7, we reported on proposals for traffic calming on Helensburgh Drive, Jordanhill Drive, Ryvra Road and Seggielea Road, the leafy area to the west of the High School of Glasgow and north of Jordanhill School. The view above, of Helensburgh Drive clearly shows the setts in the gutter (the new cycling zone for people not willing to cycle over cushions, in the middle of the road or on the footway). Here’s the letter that GoBike submitted to express our concerns and to suggest modal filters on 02 September last year, ie in the speed cushion 2019 season (August and September being the season)!

GoBike member Caroline, who lives in the area, has been in touch to say that speed cushions were indeed placed on these roads at the beginning of this year and they are already breaking up.

She went on to comment “Considering all of the SUVs in the area a majority of drivers simply sail over them without having to curb their speed at all. Also what are they using as surface dressing, weetabix? It’s eroded already.  Unsure why they didn’t use modal filters to curb rat runners & slow down the local racers.” 

Roll on Liveable Neighbourhoods!

3.3 North Lanarkshire Council, New Road Plans on the Agenda!

An email notice on 18 August tells us:

“Ravenscraig road plans on the agenda 

Plans for new roads and improvements to open up access to the Ravenscraig regeneration site will be considered by councillors this month.

Our Enterprise and Growth Committee will hear an update on the design and construction of the £127.2 million Ravenscraig Access Infrastructure project.

The project provides new and improved transport infrastructure to connect Ravenscraig north to the M8 and south to Motherwell and the M74.

The four elements of the project are:

• a new dual carriageway from the Ravenscraig Regional Sports Facility to Motherwell, crossing the west coast main line railway;
• a new roundabout with traffic signals at Airbles Road and Windmillhill Street, connecting to the dual carriageway;
• completion of the dualling of Airbles Road; and
• the dualling of the A723 from Ravenscraig to the M8.

It is part of the council’s Glasgow City Region City Deal programme to connect the main motorway networks.

The cost of the council’s Ravenscraig Access Infrastructure project is £127.2 million, including £71.2m for the connection to Motherwell and the M74 and £56m for dualling the existing A723 from Ravenscraig to the M8 at Newhouse.

The cost of the project are supported by the Glasgow City Region City Deal, providing £61.9 million, with £65.3 million being provided from the council over six years, from 2020 to 2026.

The first construction works will be creating the west coast main line crossing which is anticipated to take place in 2022, with construction of the new road to Ravenscraig and roundabout starting in 2023. Dualling of the A723 is planned to begin in 2023/24 and the work on Airbles Road in 2024/25.”

GoBike has not been made aware of any public consultation on these plans but GoBike member, Derek, has sent further information with a link to this page on the North Lanarkshire Council website and GoBike has now asked to be notified when detailed consultations go live.
It’s likely that the junction at the foot of Airbles Road, where it meets Hamilton Road will be popular with motor users as tailbacks are common at this pinch point. There is to be a large roundabout on Windmillhill Street just outside the Civic Centre and the Airbles Road Centre (community hospital), which won’t make walking or cycling to either of the places any easier.
All these new roads could have segregated cycle tracks, if the will was there, but we aren’t holding our breath.

3.4 East Dunbartonshire Council, Local Development Plan Newsletter No 58

Here’s the latest Newsletter from EDC, the second to be published in August, which we received on 21 August.

3.5 Glasgow City Council, Renewal of Planning Consent, Glasgow Harbour, initial response

We have received 2 responses to our submission opposing the renewal of the Planning Application (see Digest 67, Item 1.9), the first on 19 August and the second on 20 August:

“Dear Ms Fort,
I have passed GoBike’s representation to our admin team to be registered. Please note for future reference, representations can be submitted directly to planning.representations@drs.glasgow.gov.uk.
Kind regards,
For Duty Planner.“

“Thank you for the feedback Tricia. The link below takes you to the page that advises how to make representations on planning applications https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/makeacomment
Thanks
Planning Enquiries”

The first reply will be helpful for any future planning applications that we respond to.

3.6 Scottish Government, Response to Town Centre Action Plan Review submission

Here’s the acknowledgement for our letter of response received on 20 August:

“Good evening Tricia,
Many thanks for your written evidence to support the Town Centre Action Plan Review. It is very much appreciated the time and effort you have taken to assist us with your valuable insights to help formulate a robust set of actions.
After reviewing all of the evidence we receive we may be back in touch to explore particular avenues with you to gain further insights.
Thank you for your time.
Project Executive
Scotland’s Towns Partnership“

Please don’t forget to complete the survey, see Item 1.9 above.

3.7 Glasgow City Council, Govan Partick Strategic Development Framework consultation update

In Digest 33, issued 30 April 2019 we printed the first response to our submission on this Framework. On 28 August 2020 we received this update:

“Dear Ms Fort,

I am writing to update you with regard to the adoption of the Govan-Partick Strategic Development Framework (SDF), which you commented on during the consultation phase.  The Govan-Partick SDF was formally adopted as statutory Supplementary Guidance to the Glasgow City Development Plan (2017) on 31^st August 2020.  You can view the adopted Govan-Partick SDF here.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you again for your input to the consultation process, which we gave careful consideration to as we worked towards the adopted Govan-Partick SDF.  In line with the Scottish Government guidance we produced a Table of Responses, which shows how every comment made was taken account of through the redrafting process.  You can view the full Table of Responses, including our response to your own comments, here.   For reference purposes you can view the consultative draft Govan-Partick SDF here. 

It has taken considerably longer than was anticipated at the time of the consultation to bring the SDF to formal adoption.  The first major delay was caused by the impact of revised climate change modelling for the River Clyde which emerged in early 2019.  This required the Council to review the proposals contained in the Govan-Partick SDF in light of the potential impacts of higher tide levels on the River Clyde.  However, whilst this caused delay, we believe that this has been time well spent developing an approach which will be resilient in relation to the impacts of climate change.  The other major delay to the process has been caused by the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. 

Thank you again for taking the time to contribute to the shaping of the SDF.  If you do have any questions or comments with regard to the adopted SDF you can contact us via DevelopmentPlan@glasgow.gov.uk 

Best regards
Spatial Strategy Team
Development & Regeneration”

3.8 Glasgow City Council, Draft River Strategic Development Framework consultation update

Our submissions for this, and the above Strategic Development Framework, were both in Digest 27, Item 1.2 and here’s the update that we received on 28 August – could have been a busy day in the Spatial Strategy Team??

“Dear Ms Fort,

I am writing to update you with regard to the adoption of the River Clyde Strategic Development Framework (River Clyde SDF), which you commented on during the consultation phase.  The River Clyde SDF was formally adopted as statutory Supplementary Guidance to the Glasgow City Development Plan (2017) on 31^st August 2020.  You can view the adopted River Clyde SDF here.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you again for your input to the consultation process, which we gave careful consideration to as we worked towards the adopted River Clyde SDF.  In line with the Scottish Government guidance we produced a Table of Responses, which shows how every comment made was taken account of through the redrafting process.  You can view the full Table of Responses, including our response to your own comments, here.   For reference purposes you can view the consultative draft River Clyde SDF here. 

It has taken considerably longer than was anticipated at the time of the consultation to bring the SDF to formal adoption.  The first major delay was caused by the impact of revised climate change modelling for the River Clyde which emerged in early 2019.  This required the Council to review the proposals contained in the River Clyde SDF in light of the potential impacts of higher tide levels on the River.  However, whilst this caused delay, we believe that this has been time well spent developing an approach which will be resilient in relation to the impacts of climate change.  The other major delay to the process has been caused by the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. 

Thank you again for taking the time to contribute to the shaping of the SDF.  If you do have any questions or comments with regard to the adopted SDF you can contact us via DevelopmentPlan@glasgow.gov.uk 

Best regards
Spatial Strategy Team
Development & Regeneration“

3.9 Glasgow City Council and Sustrans, Stockingfield Bridge – waiting for an update

In Digest 64, Item 3.5, we gave you news that construction of the new bridge was about to start and that we hoped to get you details of a diversionary route before too long. Well, sorry, we still don’t have those details but here are 2 photographs confirming, first, that work has started and second, that a bridge over the canal will be much better than the current underbridge, particularly if we get as much rain as we did before last Friday morning, when these pictures were taken.

A bit of a damp note to end on, but things must surely get better!

This isn’t all about speed cushions, though, so do please read on.

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. GoBike Digest Survey, should close today but now extended by 1 week to 25 August
2. Glasgow, Merchant City & Trongate Community Council, Merchant City Park petition
3. Scottish Government, Town Centre Action Plan Expert Review Group, closes Friday 21 August for written submissions but the survey is open until 30 September
4. Glasgow City Council, Gartocher Road (Shettleston) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 26 August
5. Glasgow City Council, Prospecthill Circus (Toryglen) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 26 August
6. Glasgow City Council, Ladyloan Avenue – Extension (Drumry) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 26 August
7. Glasgow City Council, Warriston Street (Carntyne)) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 26 August
8. Glasgow City Council, Greenfield Road (Shettleston) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 27 August
9. **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Renewal of Planning Consent 17/00610/DC, Glasgow Harbour East At Castlebank Quay/Pointhouse Quay/ Yorkhill Quay Glasgow, closes 28 August
10. **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Hermiston Road (Shettleston) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 September
11. **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Muirhead Road (Baillieston) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 09 September
12. **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Newlands Park Area Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 09 September
13. **NEW* South Lanarkshire Council, Hamilton, Abercorn Drive and Chestnut Crescent, Traffic Calming, closes 11 September
14. UK Department of Transport, Review of the Highway Code to improve road safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders, closes 27 October 2020

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Multiplex University of Glasgow Campus Development – August 2020 Newsletter
2. East Dunbartonshire Local Development Plan No 57, August 2020
3. East Renfrewshire, Cycling UK Networking Event 13 August

Section 1: Current Consultations in date order, apart from the first 2, for responses

1.1 GoBike Digest Survey, should close today but now extended by 1 week to 25 August

We do really want to know what you think of these Digests. After over 2 years you must have a view and we have a short, easy-to-do survey for our members.

• For members who participate in our discussions on Slack, please go to the Consultations or General channel and follow the link that is there.
• For members who do not use Slack you may request the link by emailing consultations@gobike.org
• Not yet a GoBike member? You may join from this page and, if you join this week (with a minimum donation of only £5), you will still be eligible to respond to the survey and help us improve the information we are publishing.

1.2 Glasgow, Merchant City & Trongate Community Council, Merchant City Park petition

Many of you will know this wonderful mural on Ingram Street in Glasgow’s Merchant City. GoBike member, Peter, has told us that it is now under threat with a proposal to redevelop the area infront of it, currently used as a car park. A Planning Application to build a hotel has been withdrawn but who knows what might come next?
Merchant City & Trongate Community Council propose that a City Park is constructed on the site and they are looking for your support, with this petition. Please do support this; we need more green space in Glasgow and this is a welcome opportunity to green the city.

1.3 Scottish Government, Town Centre Action Plan Expert Review Group, closes Friday 21 August for written submissions but the survey is open until 30 September

This issue featured as Item 1.4 in Digest 66 and here’s the link to the relevant information. There’s a clear list of questions to respond to and here’s the GoBike response. Note that written responses were requested in word format, if you intend to submit before closing on Friday.
Do please send in your views about our urban centres; they could be so much better than they currently are and the online survey is open for another 6 weeks.

Items 1.4 to 1.8 Traffic Calming

These 5 items were introduced in Digest 66 as Items 1.5 to 1.9 and all the relevant drawings were attached to the items there. Here’s the one letter that GoBike has submitted in response to cover them all. We give brief details of each below but do please write in to the City Council if you disagree with their policy on traffic calming.

1.4 Glasgow City Council, Gartocher Road (Shettleston) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 26 August

This view is taken looking south though the disused railway bridge that severely limits the width of Gartocher Road. It also completely, under the present space allocation, eliminates any safe space for cycling and any safe space for social distancing on the footway, which is barely wide enough for 2 good friends to walk side by side. According to the GCC drawings the roadway width under this bridge is 5.8m. Since commercial vehicles may be up to 2.55m wide, excluding mirrors, 2 vans passing each other under this bridge don’t leave much room for anything else.

The City Council’s view to resolve concern about speeding vehicles on this road, which runs north from Shettleston Road, is to place 15 speed cushions of varying size and varying spacing along the road, all of them pushing anyone who cycles out of a good position on the road.

It’s GoBike’s view that space here could be better allocated and motor vehicle access should be restricted.

1.5 Glasgow City Council, Prospecthill Circus (Toryglen) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 26 August

A new development, designed with cars, and not people, in mind. Now action has to be taken to reduce the speed of those cars.

The City Council proposes lots of speed cushions; GoBike suggests safe space for cycling, a staggered series of rain gardens and/or a modal filter halfway round the circus to prevent motor cars from doing a circuit.

1.6 Glasgow City Council, Ladyloan Avenue – Extension (Drumry) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 26 August

Here we have again, a relatively new development with lots of space for cars, although one driver, at least, has found it “necessary” to park on the footway, thus endangering anyone walking or cycling.

The City Council’s one solution is, of course, speed cushions, but GoBike thinks they should be more imaginative and we suggest that features from the forthcoming Liveable Neighbourhoods Strategy are used and that planters are placed judiciously to determine whether one or more modal filters or simply narrowing of the roadway are sufficient to reduce motor speeds.

1.7 Glasgow City Council, Warriston Street (Carntyne)) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 26 August

Warriston Street is a residential street, with the 38 bus route running along it. With all the cars stored on the street (or the footway) there isn’t much room for much more than one bus at a time at some locations, yet motor vehicles still exceed the speed limit. Wouldn’t it be much better if the street were re-engineered to limit through traffic to buses and cycles?

1.8 Glasgow City Council, Greenfield Road (Shettleston) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 27 August

With so many vehicles stored on the road and footway and on quite a gradient, it’s easy to see how residents are concerned about vehicles travelling at speed. However, if through traffic is moved to nearby Springboig Road and a modal filter installed on this road, life could be much pleasanter.

1.9 **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Renewal of Planning Consent 17/00610/DC, Glasgow Harbour East At Castlebank Quay/Pointhouse Quay/ Yorkhill Quay Glasgow, closes 28 August

Last week GoBike member, Iain, brought this Renewal of Planning Application to our attention. It’s for the development of the large area around the relatively new Riverside Museum and, not shown on the pretty picture above, is the detail that there will be space for 1300, yes 1300, parked cars! How many bikes? No idea; there’s no mention of active travel or public transport. This is the link to the report on Glasgow Live.

This is a Renewal of Planning Consent 17/00610/DC, for Glasgow Harbour East at Castlebank Quay/Pointhouse Quay/ Yorkhill Quay Glasgow, that is, both sides of the River Kelvin and surrounding the Riverside Museum, south of the Expressway. When the museum was moved to this site there was much talk of public transport links, but this has now reduced, as far as we are aware, to the tourist bus stopping here on its circuit of the city. Thus, for the regular citizen it’s either walking from the bus/train/subway interchange at Partick, cycling, walking or, if you have one, bringing the car.

There is a strong suspicion that this is a done deal, but there are many reasons for concern, most of which have been raised on the GoBike Slack consultation channel:

• No mention of public transport
• No mention of cycling and walking access. National Cycle Route 7 runs through the site and there is no mention or visibility of this. It is difficult on the plan to see the path from the riverside that runs under the Expressway to join up with cycling routes on the north side of the Expressway
• The development is not in line with the Scottish Government’s document Designing Streets nor is it in line with Glasgow City Council’s forthcoming Liveable Neighbourhoods Strategy
• It is not in accordance with the Town Centre Action Plan, see Item 1.3 above
• There is no mention of the impact this development will have on nearby shopping and leisure areas or on the city centre. Any development here should complement the city not be in competition with existing amenities
• There is no justification given for the number 1300 selected for the number of car parking places to be provided, nor any detail of the charges that will be levied on people leaving their cars here.
• It is not in agreement with the findings from City’s Climate Emergency Working Group or current City Council policies on increasing active travel and reducing cars entering the city
• How does a development of this sort tally with the City’s aim of hosting COP26 next year?
• Further housing is planned for South Street, which is already busy with industrial motor traffic; this area around the museum should be developed as a park for people who live in the area, with cycling and walking routes running through it.
• There is no mention of river traffic
• There is no mention of the proposed Govan to Partick pedestrian and cycle bridge, which we are all waiting for and how this will impact on the area
• The Riverside Museum is of notable architectural and engineering interest, and it can be seen from the cycling and walking route, from the Expressway and from the railway. It should not be obliterated from view by buildings of lesser note

From that list it is quite clear that the general view is one of objection and here is the resulting GoBike letter, which lists and amplifies the above points.

Items 1.10 – 1.12, More Traffic Calming in Glasgow

The following 3 items are similar to the 5 Traffic Calming Items above and, to save space, only the full email for the first is shown. As we said in our last Digest we understand that the City Council offers one solution only to Community Councils and Councillors who wish to see the speeds of motor traffic reduced, and that is speed cushions.

1.10 **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Hermiston Road (Shettleston) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 08 September

Here’s the email that we received on 11 August:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF KEVIN HAMILTON, HEAD OF ROADS, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

“Dear Sir / Madam

The Glasgow City Council, (Hermiston Road), Traffic Calming Scheme

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

Please note that these proposals will also be released to the public by displaying on-street notices within the affected area.

Background to the proposed Scheme
The scheme is aimed at improving road safety by reducing vehicle speeds.

Roads affected by the proposed Scheme
The road affected by these proposals is:-

>Hermiston Road

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

• 9 sets of 3×1.8m wide speed cushions
• The installation of 18 bollards

Please provide any comments you wish to make on these proposals within 28 days.    

Please reply directly to LESTraffic@glasgow.gov.uk

In the meantime, should you require any further information or clarification on any points arising from the proposals, please e-mail LESTraffic@glasgow.gov.uk.

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

Kevin Hamilton
Head of Roads
Neighbourhoods and Sustainability“

The “plan” referred to is these 4 plans:
Section-1-btwn-number-3-and-number-17
Section-2-btwn-number-41-and-number-63
Section-3-btwn-number-67-and-number-97
Section-4-btwn-number-101-and-Tynecastle-Street

Perhaps not too clear on the map above is the fact that Hermiston Road runs parallel to, and 2 streets to the west of, Greenfield Road which, in turn is next to, and parallel to, the main road, Springboig Road. It’s a small residential area with, as the photo above shows, has lots of on road and footway parking and is, particularly at the north end, quite steep. It’s easy to see why speeding motors could cause a hazard.

No-one, though, seems to have asked the question as to whether this needs to be a through road. Could a series of filters ensure that through traffic uses the main roads and does not use roads such as this as rat runs?

1.11 **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Muirhead Road (Baillieston) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 09 September

Here’s the critical part of the email we received from the City Council on 12 August:

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

• 2 sets of 3×1.9m wide speed cushions
• 6 sets of 2x2m wide speed cushions
• The installation of 16 bollards“

5 plans were attached to the email:
Muirhead-Road-TC-proposals-Full-view
Muirhead-Road-TC-proposals-Section-1
Muirhead-Road-TC-proposals-Section-2
Muirhead-Road-TC-proposals-Section-3
Muirhead-Road-TC-proposals-Section-4

Here we have a road that leads from the main part of Muirhead down to Baillieston Train Station and then on towards Hamilton Road and the M74. Primarily straight, the parked cars will make it tricky for residents to cross the road, particularly if motor vehicles are exceeding the speed limit, but hold on, where are the cycle lanes and even the space for social distancing? The footways, if half-covered by cars, don’t allow for safe distances between people and surely, we should be encouraging people to cycle to the train station, and to cycle generally?

The one solution fits all will do neither, but the speed cushions will push people on bikes either into a gap as narrow as 0.5m at the kerb or well out into the roadway if they wish to avoid the instability and discomfort of cycling over speed cushions.

1.12 **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Newlands Park Area Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 09 September

The four roads proposed for the speed reduction treatment are Beverley Road, Calderwood Road, Carlaverock Road and Lubnaig Road. This looks and feels like an affluent area, with probably a higher proportion of large SUV type cars that can easily cope with speed cushions so why go to the effort and expense of putting them down? Here’s the critical part of the email that arrived from the City Council on 12 August:

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

• 2 sets of 4 (differing width), speed cushions
• 19 sets of 3 (differing width), speed cushions
• The installation of 42 bollards“

10 plans were attached:
Newlands-Park-area-TC-proposals-Beverley-Road-Section-1
Newlands-Park-area-TC-proposals-Beverley-Road-Section-2
Newlands-Park-area-TC-proposals-Calderwood-Road-Section-1
Newlands-Park-area-TC-proposals-Calderwood-Road-Section-2
Newlands-Park-area-TC-proposals-Carlaverock-Road-Section-1
Newlands-Park-area-TC-proposals-Carlaverock-Road-Section-2
Newlands-Park-area-TC-proposals-Carlaverock-Road-Section-3
Newlands-Park-area-TC-proposals-Lubnaig-Road-Section-1
Newlands-Park-area-TC-proposals-Lubnaig-Road-Section-2
Newlands-Park-area-Traffic-Calming-Proposals

This photograph of the junction where Lubnaig Road meets Merrylee Road shows that attempts have been made to reduce motor traffic speed with the guidance 20s plenty signs. Also, you will notice the pavement buildout to ensure that motor traffic enters and leaves Merrylee Road at a tighter angle than previously, which reduces speeds.

The question has to be asked as to why motorists continue to speed in this residential area? If the roads are being used as a rat run from Merrylee Road to Kilmarnock Road than then this can be easily stopped by putting in some modal filters allowing only cycles and emergency vehicles access.

There has been a school in the area, Calderwood Lodge Primary, but it’s now up for sale, probably to be redeveloped into desirable residences for the wealthy. Now is the time to reduce through traffic and encourage people to walk and cycle into and around the very pleasant Newlands Park.

1.13 South Lanarkshire Council, Hamilton, Abercorn Drive and Chestnut Crescent, Traffic Calming, closes 11 September

In Digest 46, Item 1.3, issued in October last year, were details of a filter proposed by South Lanarkshire Council to remove through motor traffic from Chestnut Crescent to Silvertonhill Avenue in Hamilton. Unfortunately 80% of respondents to the Council’s survey rejected this idea and the Council now propose traffic calming with, yes, you’ve guessed, speed cushions on both Abercorn Drive and Chestnut Crescent in an attempt to reduce motor speeds.

Here’s a Google view of Abercorn Drive near its junction with Chestnut Crescent and it already looks as if it would be difficult to drive at any significant speed. There look to already be speed tables and 20mph roundels on the road, plus illegal parking.

Here are the details of the proposals and here is a plan of the traffic management proposals. We will be looking at these over the next week or so and hope to have a response in the next Digest. However, if you know the area and have views on the proposals do please respond to the survey and email consultations@gobike.org to help our response.

1.14 UK Department of Transport, Review of the Highway Code to improve road safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders, closes 27 October 2020

This UK-wide consultation first appeared as Item 1.10 in Digest 66 published 2 weeks ago.
We continue to develop our response to this consultation and we are receiving views from several quarters. Unfortunately not many of these are hopeful that the proposed changes will bring about significant improvements for those of us who are vulnerable to injury from large vehicles and the predominance of motor vehicles on our roads. Many of the proposals are for guidance only, ie using the word “should” rather than the mandatory “must”. We will, though, continue to draft a responsible input to the discussion and we will keep you informed of progress.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

Nothing that we are aware of just now.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Multiplex University of Glasgow Campus Development – August 2020 Newsletter

Here’s the latest edition of the Multiplex University of Glasgow Newsletter August 2020, which we received on 10 August.

3.2 East Dunbartonshire Local Development Plan No 57, August 2020

This newsletter arrived today from East Dunbartonshire Council’s Land Planning Policy team. There’s no specific mention of cycling but those of you you know East Dunbartonshire well might see more in the detail.

3.3 East Renfrewshire, Cycling UK Networking Event 13 August

This event was advertised in Digest 66, Item 2.1 and GoBike co-Convenor, Thomas, took part in the virtual event. Here’s his brief report, a good note on which to end this Digest:

“The East Ren Networking meeting aimed at cycling was well attended and we give thanks to Cycling U.K. Scotland’s Eileen Hamill for arranging it all. It wasn’t groundbreaking but it’s a good first step to helping improve access and forward motion to creating a better East Renfrewshire.“

**********************************************************

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. **NEW** We ask what you think of the GoBike Digests, closes 18 August
2. **NEW** Share the Road – Support the Increases in Space for Safer Walking and Cycling, no closing date, but please don’t delay if you wish to sign the petition
3. **NEW** Glasgow. Mount Florida Community Council, Letherby Triangle project in Mount Florida, no closing date given
4. **NEW** Scottish Government, Town Centre Action Plan Expert Review Group, closes 21 August
5. **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Gartocher Road (Shettleston) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 26 August
6. **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Prospecthill Circus (Toryglen) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 26 August
7. **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Ladyloan Avenue – Extension (Drumry) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 26 August
8. **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Warriston Street (Carntyne) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 26 August
9. **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Greenfield Road (Shettleston) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 27 August
10. **NEW** UK Department for Transport, Review of The Highway Code to improve road safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders, closes 27 October 2020

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. East Renfrewshire, Cycling UK Virtual Cycling, Walking and Wheeling in East Renfrewshire Networking Event, 13th August 

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Glasgow City Council, Pollok Park, Introduction of Active Travel Management Plan including formation of parking, infrastructure and landscaping, acknowledgement of GoBike submission by Development & Regeneration Services
2. North Lanarkshire Council, City Deal Proposed East Airdrie Link Road, response to GoBike submission
3. North Lanarkshire Council, Active Travel Stakeholder Group online workshop 30 July

Section 1: Current Consultations in date order for responses (where given)

1.1 **NEW** We ask what you think of the GoBike Digests, closes 18 August

Yes, as mentioned in Digest 65, Item 2.1, we are being introspective and asking our members their views on these fortnightly Digests.
~ If you are already a current GoBike member and on Slack then the survey is there waiting for you in the Consultations channel
~ If you are already a current GoBike member but not on Slack, or don’t wish to be, then email consultations@gobike.org and the link to the survey will be sent out to you
~ Not yet a GoBike member but you wish to comment on the Digests? It’s easy and very cheap to join and by joining you are helping the campaign for improved cycle facilities.

1.2 **NEW** Share the Road – Support the Increases in Space for Safer Walking and Cycling, no closing date, but please don’t delay if you wish to sign the petition

GoBike member, Iona, sent this link: https://www.bikeisbest.com/petition and we hope you will all sign!

Here’s the info from the website:

“SHARE THE ROAD – SUPPORT THE INCREASES IN SPACE FOR SAFER WALKING AND CYCLING

During the Covid-19 crisis, across the UK there has been a rapid roll out of measures to make walking and cycling feel safer, as public transport capacity was reduced and all but essential journeys were curtailed. Space for walking and cycling has been taken directly from motor vehicles, rebalancing our roads to benefit people, not traffic.

This approach is proving hugely popular – a recent YouGov survey by #BikeIsBest showed that 77% of Brits are in support of road space reallocation to enable safer cycling and walking. We want to cycle more – during lockdown, some areas of England have seen cycling increase by 200%.

Governments have issued funding and guidance for local authorities across the UK. Despite this, some local authorities are ripping out temporary measures after just a few days because of a few emails and petitions from motoring pressure groups and grumpy residents. The silent majority who would like nicer and healthier places to safely cycle are not being heard.

Our research shows that there are 6.5 people in favour of measures to enable cycling and walking for every 1 person against. But these voices aren’t being heard.

Only 6% of us want to return to pre-pandemic times, says another YouGov poll. There is a rare opportunity to change our streets for the better; for health, for air quality, for the economy and for the community. To not just go back to traffic-dominated communities swathed in smog. But this opportunity for change is in jeopardy and urgent action is required. We need to show local political leaders there is widespread support for these measures.

By signing, you’re saying: “I support infrastructure that will help everyone cycle and walk more.”

Show your local politicians you support projects that will help everyone cycle and walk more. Please sign and share this petition today to make your voice heard.

This petition is open to all UK residents. This petition is being run by the #BikeIsBest campaign on behalf of 50 cycling organisations. We will use the accumulative totals of the petition to present the support to local and national government and other key stakeholders. Your email address will not be shared with third parties or these organisations directly. You can choose to receive campaign email updates but this is optional as an opt in.”

We can all hear people saying “Oh, the bike boom won’t last, wait until the rain, the dark mornings etc”. The bike boom will last if we can get good infrastructure, so please sign and let’s keep what we’ve got and campaign for more through GoBike.

1.3 **NEW** Glasgow. Mount Florida Community Council, Letherby Triangle project in Mount Florida, no closing date given

GoBike member, Calum, alerted us to this survey:

Here’s the wording from the website:

“Mount Florida Community Council has been consulting with the local community for a
number of years on how to improve the Letherby Triangle – the area at the junction of
Cathcart Road and Carmunnock Road beside Mount Florida Primary School. Last year we
received funding from Sustrans to allow us to develop it to the stage where we can submit a planning application. The proposal aims to:

• Create an attractive civic space for the local community to meet and hold events
• Enhance the image of Mount Florida as a vibrant and welcoming community
• Reduce traffic speeds in the area
• Make it easier to walk, cycle and scoot

Now we need your input on how the final design might look. Please complete the
survey“.

The survey is being run by Mount Florida Community Council – please do respond if you live in the area and/or know the area well.

1.4 **NEW** Scottish Government, Town Centre Action Plan Expert Review Group, closes 21 August

We were alerted to this consultation by GoBike member Tia:

Call for Evidence: revitalising Scotland’s town centres in the wake of COVID-19
The Town Centre Action Plan Expert Review Group is looking for views & ideas to develop thinking about Scotland’s vision for town centres.

The majority of us live in towns and cities, so this will be of interest to most of us. Please do look at the website and put in your views as to how you wish your urban areas to be, either with the changes we have already made or how they should be developed.

Here are the questions we are asked to consider:

1. What are the challenges and opportunities facing town centres in Scotland and how should these be addressed?
2. What are the barriers to developing town centres suitable for their communities and how can these be removed?
3. To what extent has the Town Centre Action Plan (TCAP) delivered against its stated ambitions? In what areas has delivery been successful? In what areas is there room for progress and/or barriers to overcome?
4. To what extent are the stated objectives and policy challenges TCAP seeks to address relevant for the new challenges for our towns?
5. If TCAP were to be revised, what additional or replacement areas and objectives would you recommend should be included and how should these be addressed?
6. Can you provide details and contacts of any examples of excellent practice in town centres which you believe have wider potential?
7. Is there anything else you would like to add?

This list makes it relatively simple to organise your thoughts! GoBike will be developing a response that we aim to publish in our next Digest.

Items 1.5 – 1.9, Traffic Calming in Glasgow

The following 5 items are all similar. They are all roads in the outskirts of the city where drivers are exceeding the speed limit and where the local community have requested, via their Community Council and/or City Councillors, that something be done. GoBike understands that only 1 solution is offered by the City Council and that is speed cushions.

GoBike fully understands the concern about fast and dangerous driving but we consider that there are several options available to reduce speed and even remove through traffic and that each location should be considered for a bespoke solution.

The emails that accompanied the consultation documentation are in a standard format; we only publish it in full for the first of the 5.

1.5 **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Gartocher Road (Shettleston) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 26 August

Here’s the email on this one, the first of 4 received on 29 July:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF KEVIN HAMILTON, HEAD OF ROADS, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Sir / Madam,

The Glasgow City Council, (Gartocher Road), Traffic Calming Scheme

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

Please note that these proposals will also be released to the public by displaying on-street notices within the affected area.

Background to the proposed Scheme
The scheme is aimed at improving road safety by reducing vehicle speeds.

Road affected by the proposed Scheme
The road affected by these proposals is:-

• Gartocher Road

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

• 2 sets of 3×1.8m wide cushions
• 1 set of 3x2m wide cushions
• 3 sets of 2x2m wide cushions

Please provide any comments you wish to make on these proposals within 28 days.   

 Please reply directly to LESTraffic@glasgow.gov.uk

In the meantime, should you require any further information or clarification on any points arising from the proposals, please also e-mail LESTraffic@glasgow.gov.uk

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

Kevin Hamilton
Head of Roads, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability“

The plans referred to in the email are: Section 1, Section 2 and Section 3.

From these plans it may be seen that the gap at the gutter between the cushion and the kerb ranges from 0.5m up to 1.0m with the majority being 0.6m. Thus anyone trying to avoid the cushion has to cycle either out in the middle of the road or in the narrow gap at the edge along with all the grit etc.

As you can see from the map and the photograph the overall roadway narrows to go under the bridge carrying the railway line from Glasgow Queen Street Low Level out to Airdrie and via Bathgate to Edinburgh. But look, the road itself, on which the high motor speeds are occurring, maintains its width, while one footway disappears and there is no cycleway at all.

An alternative proposal is to use one road lane as a footway plus cycleway for the narrowed length under the bridge. The other lane would be controlled by traffic lights for a one-way motor traffic system. Such a solution would slow the motor traffic down and would deter drivers from using Gartocher Road as a rat run.
A further, easier-to-do alternative is to simply close the road to through traffic but only allow pedestrians, bikes and emergency vehicles through the railway bridge.

It’s time we moved away from the standard one size fits all solution of speed cushions.

1.6 **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Prospecthill Circus (Toryglen) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 26 August

This area has only just been redeveloped with a mix of houses and flats, so why is the road such that motor cars are allowed to drive too fast?

Here are the relevant sections of the email from the City Council:

“Road affected by the proposed Scheme
The road affected by this proposal is:-

• Prospecthill Circus

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

• 1 set of 3×1.7m wide cushions
• 2 sets of 2x2m wide cushions
• 3 sets of 3×1.8m wide cushions
• 2 sets of 3×1.9m wide cushions“

Here’s the plan that is referred to: TC proposals

Sadly, there appears to be a discrepancy between the email and the drawing. The email lists 8 sets of cushions and the drawing shows 12.

A further point of concern is the positioning of the cushions. For 10 of the 12 sets the gap between cushion and kerb is only 0.5m with 1 at 0.65 and 1 at 1.0m. GoBike has been told that the recommended gap is 1.2m, so it looks as if the City Council have found a new guidance document?

We first mentioned the involvement of Urban Roots in Digest 31, Item 6 and there are further mentions in subsequent Digests of the local consultation they carried out for this area, right on the edge of Glasgow, bordering on South Lanarkshire.
Urban Roots were hoping to have their proposal for a cycle lane to be constructed right round the circus included in the development of the area.

All the houses have a run-in for a car, so why are all these developments designed for car use and not for active travel and the use of public transport? This really is a damning indictment of the current planning systems that have led to many such schemes in Glasgow and around Scotland, where the car is seen as king. In Crossbank Crescent, in the same development, a much better way of slowing traffic has been found, see below:

1.7 **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Ladyloan Avenue – Extension (Drumry) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 26 August

This proposal is an extension to a scheme that we first featured in Digest 37, Item 1.3 in June last year. which was for the eastern section of Ladyloan Avenue; this proposal is for the western end. Last year GoBike submitted an objection suggesting that active travel in this less affluent area of the city should be encouraged by the construction of cycle lanes. We also asked why there was no proposal for car-free areas round the schools in this area. However, the installation of speed cushions won, and now there is a proposal for even more. Here’s the pertinent section of the City Council’s email of 29 July:

“Roads affected by the proposed Scheme
The road affected by this proposal is:-

• Ladyloan Avenue

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

• 2 sets of 2×1.8m wide cushions
• 2 sets of 2×1.9m wide cushions“

Here is the plan referred to: Ladyloan Avenue full proposals

Unfortunately, there again appear to be errors on the plan. There is a total of 5 sets of cushions, not 4, and the cushion to kerb spacing varies on the drawing from 1.0m down to 0.6m (there is a dimension of 0.55m shown but a check on the arithmetic shows this should be a more generous 0.65m!) Still not sufficient to keep bikes out of the detritus at the edge of the road, though.

Plenty of room for cycle lanes on this view!

1.8 **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Warriston Street (Carntyne) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 26 August

Here’s a nice, long street, just right for getting up a bit of speed in the motor, irrespective of any of the residents trying to cross the road, or cycle along! Obviously something has to be done, but why speed cushions?

Here’s the relevant section of the City Council email:

“Roads affected by the proposed Scheme
The road affected by these proposals is:-

• Warriston Street

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

• 15 sets of 3×1.9m wide speed cushions
• The supply and installation of 30 bollards.“

Here are the 5 plans that were attached:
Section-1-btwn-Cumbernauld-Rd-and-number-68
Section-2-btwn-number-102-and-number-156
Section-3-btwn-number-186-and-number-250
Section-4-btwn-Gartcraig-Road-and-number-324
Section-5-btwn-number-342-and-Ruchazie-Road

The gaps at the side are mostly 1.0m, with 5 sets at 0.9 and 1 at 0.8, but they should be better.

One look at the map shows that, with the judicious use of filters and bus gates, if required, this whole area could be made impermeable to through motor traffic, while still maintaining access for cycles, buses, emergency vehicles and refuse lorries. Instead the City Council propose a dodgems run.

1.9 **NEW** Glasgow City Council, Greenfield Road (Shettleston) Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 27 August

This, the fifth, arrived a day later, on 30 July and here’s the critical section of the City Council email:

“Roads affected by the proposed Scheme
The road affected by these proposals is:-

• Greenfield Road

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

• 6 sets of 3×1.8m wide speed cushions
• 1 set of 3×1.9m wide speed cushions
• 1 set 2x2m wide speed cushions
• The installation of 16 bollards

And here are the plans that were attached to the email:
Section-1-btwn-number-1-and-11
Section-2-Btwn-number-19-and-41
Section-3-btwn-number-43-and-61
Section-4-btwn-number-63-and-Tynecastle-Street

The gaps between the gutter and the nearest cushion are generally 0.5m, with one set being 0.6 and another being an astonishing 1.2m, ie the standard we were told the City Council worked to!

Greenfield Road runs parallel to Springboig Road, so could readily be closed to through motor traffic, making the area pleasanter for the local residents, thus dispensing with the need for speed cushions.

Items 1.5 – 1.9, Traffic Calming in Glasgow

The 5 roads covered above are similar in that they are relatively straight, which can lead drivers to exceed the speed limit, but there are solutions other than speed cushions. Also, of course, drivers who do endanger life by excessive speed should be penalised. GoBike will be developing responses over the next 2 weeks and should be able to publish them in the next Digest.

1.10 **NEW** UK Department for Transport, Review of The Highway Code to improve road safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders, closes 27 October 2020

The Highway Code, which applies to all road users across the UK, is about to be updated for the first time since 2007.

The UK Government website tells us there is:

“Consultation seeking views on proposed changes to The Highway Code to improve safety for vulnerable road users, particularly the groups of:

• cyclists
• pedestrians
• horse riders

The main alterations to the code being proposed are:

• introducing a hierarchy of road users which ensures that those road users who can do the greatest harm have the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger or threat they may pose to others
• clarifying existing rules on pedestrian priority on pavements, to advise that drivers and riders should give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross the road,
• providing guidance on cyclist priority at junctions to advise drivers to give priority to cyclists at junctions when travelling straight ahead
• establishing guidance on safe passing distances and speeds when overtaking cyclists and horse riders“

Here’s the link to the Government website. GoBike is now starting its review and we hope to have this ready in good time for you to use as the basis of your submission. We are aware that other active travel organisations, such as Cycling UK and Living Streets, are developing their responses, so we will be using all the information open to us to make sure we don’t miss any crucial aspects of this consultation.

The disconcerting aspect of this is not just that there is no legal, only a moral, obligation on any of us to read the Highway Code, but that motor drivers do not require any update after passing their driving test. Most of us who do a driving test will do it in their late teens or twenties, with no further test ever being required.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consulations

2.1 East Renfrewshire, Cycling UK Virtual Cycling, Walking and Wheeling in East Renfrewshire Networking Event, 13th August 

GoBike member, Iona, brought this to our notice and here’s the detail:

Cycling UK would like to invite you to our Virtual Cycling, Walking and Wheeling in East Renfrewshire Networking Event. 
The event will run from 4pm – 6pm on Thursday 13th August on Microsoft Teams

The Covid Crisis brought increased levels of Cycling, Walking and Wheeling with unprecedented numbers of people getting out of their cars and on to the streets, paths and parks for both travel and exercise. As we emerge from lockdown we now have the opportunity to capitalise on this momentum and make more active travel and leisure part of the new normal.  Many more people now want to cycle for leisure, health and everyday travel. We have the opportunity to shape practical measures which will help us to sustain this more active culture.
The global pandemic has shown us that where there is a political will and a sense of urgency things can change quickly. Pop up infrastructure and Spaces for People are just the start of what can be done to get more people cycling, walking and wheeling more often in East Renfrewshire.

This event is for anyone with an interest in walking and cycling in East Renfrewshire We hope to bring together representatives from Cycling UK, East Renfrewshire Council, local grassroots cycling and walking groups, community cycling organisations, Cycling UK affiliated and Member groups and local residents. Our aim is to discuss cycling and walking provision in the area and look towards improving infrastructure and opportunities. 
There are also opportunities for organisations to present at the event so if you would like the chance to showcase your work in the area just let me know.
Please feel free to 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 may be contacted by email at: bigbikerevivalscotland@cyclinguk.org

Here’s the link to join the meeting.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Glasgow City Council, Pollok Park, Introduction of Active Travel Management Plan including formation of parking, infrastructure and landscaping, acknowledgement of GoBike submission by Development & Regeneration Services

In Digest 64, Item 3.1, we published our response to the planning application for changes to the traffic system in Pollok Park. On 24 July we received this letter of acknowledgement. We’ll keep you updated with any further news.

3.2 North Lanarkshire Council, City Deal Proposed East Airdrie Link Road, response to GoBike submission

In Digest 59, Item 1.2 we published this letter of opposition to the building of a new road to the east of the town of Airdrie. On 27 July we received this long email explaining why the Council find it necessary to proceed with the road.

“City Deal Proposed East Airdrie Link Road (Ref TF/D57
Attn: Tricia Fort

Thank you for your letter of 14 April 2020 in response to the public consultation exercise on the proposed East Airdrie Link Road.

We note your opposition to the scheme, primarily on the basis that there requires to be a change of emphasis away from provision of new road capacity and more towards public transport and active travel.  You also note that recent government policies aim to reduce pollution, reduce the use of the private motor vehicle, improve public health and effect a modal transfer.

These aims are acknowledged in the recently published National Transport Strategy which, although at the bottom of the investment hierarchy, still supports road building, particularly in support of inclusive economic growth.

Please be assured that the Council is supportive of these shifts in policy and these are recognised in the aims and objectives of the East Airdrie Link Road project.

As stated in the over-arching project objective, the project seeks to contributing to a co-ordinated and strategic approach to upgrade transport infrastructure and promote economic regeneration through the Pan-Lanarkshire Orbital Transport Corridor project. 

Firstly, the objective explicitly acknowledges the aim to support economic regeneration in the area and, specifically, any proposals are assessed against how well they “support development opportunities for existing businesses and assist in unlocking stalled development sites”.  This aligns with the overall aim of the Glasgow City Deal to support economic growth and job creation; in fact, the achievement of this objective is critical in securing City Deal funding.

The project is also envisioned as a key plank in supporting the Council’s wider aim of encouraging modal shift through the greater use of public transport and active travel.  Again, these aims are explicitly acknowledged in options appraisal through assessment against the following project objectives:

Public Transport – Facilitate improvements to public transport infrastructure and reliability,
encouraging modal shift

Active Travel – Provide active travel infrastructure linking to existing networks, encouraging modal shift

The expansion of public transport and active travel provision in and along the existing A73 is limited by the prevailing physical constraints and traffic congestion and it is anticipated that the relief provided by the new link road will allow increased road space to be assigned to buses and active travel.  Providing travel choices is key to encouraging modal shift and efficient, fast public transport services are central to encouraging people to not use private cars. 

Another of the objectives is to improve air quality pollution within the Chapelhall AQMA and the project will achieve this for residents and those walking, cycling and wheeling.  Indeed, there is also an opportunity for the project to reduce noise pollution for a number of residents and remove freight movements through these densely populated areas.

Any option taken forward will be designed to include active travel routes connecting to existing paths and networks and thereby contributing to the overall active travel network in the region.  There is an opportunity through the environmental assessment work to provide a range of enhancements in terms of landscaping, ecology and flooding and to create pleasant segregated routes alongside the new road. 

We also note your comment about rail, however, the initial options appraisal concluded that rail options made only limited contribution to project objectives.  Nevertheless, the study (Strategy 8) did acknowledge there were opportunities to potentially improve connectivity links at Coatbridge these will be considered further out with the scope of the East Airdrie Link Road project.

In summary, it is our view that the proposed project is aligned with many of the objectives outlined in your letter. As we move in to Stage 2 of the current study, we will be seeking to ensure the optimum performance against the overall project objectives and to explore opportunities for maximising benefits of the new scheme towards modal shift.  To that end, have invited  welcome constructive engagement with GoBike on how your organisation considers these goals might be achieved.

We have set up stakeholder consultation groups, including on active travel, and acknowledge that your colleague Derek York has agreed to participate in the Active Travel Group.

We hope the above addresses some of your concerns and that you will be able to contribute further as the project develops through Stage 2.

In the meantime, if I can be of any further assistance, please contact the undersigned.
Regards

Yvonne Baker
Senior Project Manager (Enterprise Projects)
Enterprise & Communities
North Lanarkshire Council“

While this is not the result we had dreamed of, it is probably what we expected, but GoBike has been listened to. The inclusion of GoBike member, Derek, in North Lanarkshire’s Active Travel Stakeholder Consultation Group is very welcome.

3.3 North Lanarkshire Council, Active Travel Stakeholder Group online workshop 30 July

Quick on the heels of that email was the first meeting of the Active Travel Group last Thursday, held online and attended by Derek, on behalf of GoBike. The focus of discussion was the East Airdrie Link Road, a new A-road planned by North Lanarkshire Council funded by City Deal.
The screenshot above shows the possible route alignments; the final decision is yet to be made. The northern section is quite barren, 600ft above sea level and over peat bog. The southern section is nearer settlements, including Airdrie, Chapelhall, Plains and Calderbank. Mike Batley of the Central Scotland Green Network suggested the southern section could follow the western route for active travel-only (with road separate to east). It wasn’t clear if this will be taken on board. The next meeting will be in August but no word on next steps.
The proposed shared path would be wider than sections on A73 near Carluke. It’s nothing to write home about but obviously better than the section between Newhouse and Cleland/Bellside, which has no pavement at all. Other stakeholders were underwhelmed – Sustrans, SPT, Central Scotland Green Network, Glasgow & Clyde Valley Green Network Partnership (https://www.gcvgreennetwork.gov.uk/guide-to-the-partnership/the-partners).

Derek’s also given us some background to the proposals:

The road was initially proposed as a bypass over ten years ago to get HGVs off the current A73 through Airdrie. The Sustrans rep at the meeting asked whether NLC had considered not building road in light of the climate emergency. North Lanarkshire’s response was that the new road was about “redistribution” of traffic, not adding. Active travel infrastructure was added later in process (reminiscent of Stewartfield Way in South Lanarkshire). The proposed line of the road passes two potential sites for a new Monklands hospital (Glenmavis and Wester Moffat). The presentation mentioned economic development but not cycle commuting (aims come from old NLC cycling strategy). Aecom (the design consultants) and North Lanarkshire Council claim they want a modal shift to cycling – hence their proposal for a shared use path on one side (3m+buffer). They are proposing roundabout junctions with uncontrolled crossings (road is single lane 60mph). Est. 9k motor vehicle flows – 10k+ would require grade separated junctions – traffic modelling is to be confirmed.
The proposed shared path would be wider than sections on A73 near Carluke. It’s nothing to write home about but obviously better than the section between Newhouse and Cleland/Bellside, which has no pavement at all. Other stakeholders were underwhelmed – Sustrans, SPT, Central Scotland Green Network, Glasgow & Clyde Valley Green Network Partnership (https://www.gcvgreennetwork.gov.uk/guide-to-the-partnership/the-partners).

A decision about a new Monklands hospital site still hasn’t been taken. If it’s at one of the sites on the above corridor then that might change things. FYI see: https://www.nhslanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk/get-involved/consult-engage/monklands-engagement/

That’s it for now, a welcome return of consultations and plenty to get our teeth into.

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. **NEW** Scottish Government, Climate Change Plan — Climate change and you consultation , closes 29 April
2. North Lanarkshire, Proposed New Road, Airdrie, online consultation, closes 30 April

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. No news is no news from Glasgow City Council?
2. Notes for consultations of the future

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Glasgow, Hutchesontown (New Gorbals), Parking Controls, GoBike submission

Section 1: Current Consultations

1.1 **NEW** Scottish Government, Climate Change Plan — Climate change and you consultation , closes 29 April

Transform Scotland brought this one to our attention and we are sure many of you out there will wish to let the Scottish Government know your views on this important topic!

Here’s the information from the Transform Scotland website:

“The Scottish Parliament is scrutinising the Scottish Government’s Climate Change Plan. Part of the Plan is about behaviour change, and the Environment, Climate Change & Land Reform Committee is looking for ideas relating to what people would be willing to do to reduce their own emissions and what the Scottish Government should be doing to support these changes.

On the Scottish Parliament consultation website, you can submit your idea, support other ideas, and take part in the debate.”

Please do go to this website, login and approve or disapprove all the suggestions that are already there. It’s clear that the motor lobby has been out in force: one respondent even said that cycling is just for people who have all day to get somewhere!

1.2 North Lanarkshire, Proposed New Road, Airdrie, online consultation, closes 30 April

This was first covered in Digest 56, but in Digest 57, Item 1.3 we gave you the details of the online consultation that is currently open. The link to all the consultation information is here. Here’s the paper form that may be used instead of completing the survey questionnaire on line and you may see quite clearly from Question 2 that the whole thrust of the consultation exercise is towards the people who currently drive:

“2. If you were to travel in the direction of Cumbernauld or Motherwell / M74 how would you usually get there?

Use the A73 / local roads (please continue to question 3)

Use the motorway network (please go to question 5)“

The more roads there are, the more traffic there will be on them. This truth has been clear since the 1960s when the major motorway construction programme began in Britain. Once the current Covid 19 crisis is over, all steps possible should be taken to ensure that motor traffic levels do NOT return to previous levels. The current clean air and lack of pollution should teach us that, if nothing else.

If you live, work or travel within the Airdrie area, we suggest that you complete the survey questionnaire.

Here’s the GoBike letter of opposition to the proposals.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

2.1 No news is no news from Glasgow City Council?

Almost nothing has been heard from Glasgow City Council, or any other council, over the last 3-4 weeks and on Thursday last week GoBike phoned GCC, hoping to speak to one of the Section Heads who manages consultations that are issued to us. The call was transferred to a support worker, working from home, who informed us that our request for a brief update on the current state of affairs would be passed on and a return phone call made. That return call has not yet been received. However, the support worker did give the impression that consultations are on hold just now. Wonder what they are all doing?

2.2 Notes for consultations of the future

You might have been staying at home to improve your cycling skills but, if you have been getting out and about you will have noticed that the roads are quieter, but there are some speed merchants out there in their cars and vans. Unfortunately far too many people are still too worried about motor traffic and are cycling on roadside footways / pavements to get their daily exercise.

This clearly demonstrates that we need good quality cycling infrastructure, and not cycle lanes such as these, photographed recently in the east of the city:

Regular readers will be aware of GoBike’s concern about speed cushions and their widespread use in the city, pushing anyone who chooses to cycle either into the gutter our out into the traffic. Here’s a scary photo that GoBike member, Calum M, sent in of speed cushion avoidance near his home.

It is seeing this poor infrastructure that encourages GoBike to campaign and we need your help. If you are not at home competing with the hamster do please take note of the (normally) busy roads where there is inadequate, or no, cycling infrastructure, so that when the Local Authorities are back in action, we can all redouble our efforts to make Glasgow and all the surrounding areas an efficient and happy place to cycle.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Glasgow, Hutchesontown (New Gorbals), Parking Controls, GoBike submission

This preliminary consultation, to assess residents’ views, closed yesterday, 13 April and GoBike submitted a response, using the form that was published online.

GoBike is pleased that, should the proposals be carried through, commuter car parking is to be addressed in this area, delighted that on 9 streets, which are to be made one-way to motor traffic, two-way, ie with flow and contraflow cycling will be allowed, but we do have one concern, which relates to displacement. Last year, GoBike supported parking restrictions for the Laurieston area, to the west of the Gorbals, so displaced commuters can’t move there. Unfortunately, there already appears to be some commuter parking in Glasgow Green and around the Barras, so we hope the City Council will prevent any further moves by commuters to leave their cars all day north of the Clyde.

There will be 2 further stages in this consultation:

1. The Stage One, limited and not for public release, consultation, in which GoBike is now included.
2. The Stage Two Public Consultation when any necessary Traffic Management/Regulation Orders are published in the press and which we will bring you through these Digests.

Hopefully, we will have a wee bit of news for you in a fortnight but, whatever happens with consultations, do try to stay safe.

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. **NEW** GoBike, Glasgow Eco Trust and On Bikes, Walking & Cycling in Glasgow: Give us your views, open
2. Glasgow, Connecting Woodside, commonplace map for comments, closes 09 March
3. East Dunbartonshire, Dalkeith Avenue, Wellington Road and Westerhill Road, Bishopbriggs, No Waiting and No Loading at any time, closes 16 March
4. **NEW** East Dunbartonshire, Townhead, Kirkintilloch, No Waiting at any time restrictions, closes 16 March
5. **NEW** Glasgow, North Kelvin and North Woodside, Traffic Management and Parking Controls, closes 27 March
6. **NEW** Glasgow, Low Emission Zone Phase 2, online consultation, closes 29 March
7. Scottish Government — Fourth National Planning Framework, closes 31 March
8. **NEW** Glasgow, Hutchesontown (New Gorbals) Parking Controls, closes 13 April

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. Scottish Government — Fourth National Planning Framework, drop-in session and workshop, Glasgow, 17 March

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Yorkhill and Kelvingrove Community Council Cycling Village consultation event held on 19 February, brief notes
2. ScotRail, future of Cycle Forum uncertain, with completion of contract by Kathryn MacKay, Cycling Officer
3. North Lanarkshire, Local Development Plan update
4. Glasgow, Ardencraig Road Traffic Calming, City Council’s response to our proposals
5. Glasgow, Belmont, confirmation of Traffic Management Order
6. Glasgow, Castlemilk Drive Traffic Calming, City Council’s response to our proposals
7. Glasgow, Connecting Woodside, Garscube Road, work started on 2-way segregated cycle lane
8. Glasgow University, March newsletter from Multiplex
9. North Toryglen Greenspace & Active Travel Project update
10. South Lanarkshire, new cycle lanes!
11. Glasgow, Active Travel Forum
12. Sheriffhall success – what next? Update from Scottish Greens

Section 1: Current Consultations, in date order for responses

1.1 **NEW** Walking & Cycling in Glasgow: Give us your views, open

Yes, GoBike is consulting. Along with Glasgow Eco Trust and On Bikes we are working together to collate information across Glasgow to help improve walking and cycling to create Streets for All, see here for more information and the commonplace map.

If you like what GoBike is doing, with our very limited funds – our only funding comes from our members, unlike most other groups who get public funding – then do please join us. Our minimum annual membership fee is £5 and you can join online here. The more members we have, the stronger our voice.

1.2 Glasgow, Connecting Woodside, commonplace map for comments, closes 09 March

This featured as Item 1.3 in our previous Digest, Digest 54 and here’s the link you need to the most recent update and the commonplace map. Do get your comments in soon!

1.3 East Dunbartonshire, Dalkeith Avenue, Wellington Road and Westerhill Road, Bishopbriggs, No Waiting and No Loading at any time, closes 16 March

This proposal, to remove on-street parking from a short section of Westerhill Road just off Kirkintilloch Road in Bishopbriggs and the junction areas with Dalkeith Avenue and Wellington Road, arrived by email on 11 February from East Dunbartonshire Council and the details were given in Item 1.4 of Digest 54. GoBike normally supports the removal of on-street parking, since it generally interferes with clear routes for cycling – unless we are told of good reasons otherwise. So do please let us know if there are reasons for not supporting this!

1.4 **NEW** East Dunbartonshire, Townhead, Kirkintilloch, No Waiting at any time restrictions, closes 16 March

This proposal, which came in on 18 February, just too late for Digest 54, is to remove parking in the section of Townhead where the van is. The wasteland now has flats built on it.
Here’s the email we received from East Dunbartonshire Council:

“Dear Sir/Madam,

PROPOSED: THE EAST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL (TOWNHEAD, KIRKINTILLOCH) (NO WAITING AT ANY TIME RESTRICTIONS) ORDER

The Council is promoting a Traffic Regulation Order which would introduce no waiting at any time restrictions on a section of Townhead, Kirkintilloch. Enclosed is a copy of the draft Order, plan and Statement of Reasons, together with a copy of the Notice that is to appear in the Kirkintilloch Herald which is published on 19 February 2020
Should you wish to comment on the proposal you must do so in writing by Monday, 16 March 2020. Your comments should be sent to Chief Solicitor & Monitoring Officer, Legal Services, 12 Strathkelvin Place, Kirkintilloch, G66 1TJ.
(See attached file: 200218 Townhead proposed Order & documentations.pdf)

Yours faithfully
Fiona Stirling, Legal Services, 12 Strathkelvin Place, Kirkintilloch, G66 1TJ“

GoBike will be supporting this proposal.

1.5 **NEW** Glasgow, North Kelvin and North Woodside, Traffic Management and Parking Controls, closes 27 March

Last November, GoBike responded to the Stage One consultation for this proposal and we highlighted 3 concerns:

• Removal of 2-way cycling. Streets are proposed to be 1-way with no exemption for cycling. Contraflow cycling is the default on 1-way streets in Cycling by Design and there is no evidence of it being unsafe.
• The lack of cycle parking. We suggested cycle shelters for residents and cycle stands for visitors to the area.
• Angled or perpendicular to the kerb parking. If this type of parking is to be allowed then common sense and guidance suggests that drivers reverse in to their parking place. Thus they will drive forward when leaving, rather than reversing into oncoming traffic.

Have our concerns been included in the public consultation?

Here’s the email that we received on 28 February:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF KEVIN HAMILTON, HEAD OF ROADS, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Sir / Madam

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (NORTH KELVIN AND NORTH WOODSIDE), (TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT AND PARKING CONTROLS), ORDER 202_

Further to my consultation email of 31 October 2019 regarding the above named Traffic Regulation Order, and in accordance with the statutory procedures, I now enclose a copy for the press notice of the proposed Order, relevant map, statement of reasons, detailed report and frequently asked questions (FAQs).

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

Please note the following modifications have been made since the consultation phase:

• The inclusion of 8 more electric vehicle recharging bays; 1 on Fergus Drive, 4 on Hopehill Road, 1 on Hotspur Street, 1 on Raeberry Street and 1 on Shakespeare Street to promote more sustainable vehicles.
• Removal of 6 No. shared use parking spaces on Hopehill Road to accommodate a project to re-design the junction of Hopehill Road with Maryhill Road.
• The inclusion of the following roads which were missed from the previous list of affected roads due to an administrative error; Belmont Street, Clouston Lane, Kelvinside Grove, Lothian Lane, Malloch Street, Un-named Road (north of the west section of Henderson Street) and Yarrow Gardens Lane.

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, Exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX or by email to NorthKelvinAndNorthWoodside@glasgow.gov.uk by Friday 27 March 2020.

Yours faithfully” etc

The documents referred to in the email are here: press notice of the proposed Order, relevant map A (see below – the link here is to the correct, updated version of this drawing), relevant map B, relevant map C, statement of reasons, detailed report and frequently asked questions (FAQs).

A promising extract from the documentation that local resident and GoBike member, Alasdair, has noticed is:
“Cycling permeability:
To assist with cycling throughout the area, a ‘no entry except pedal cycles’ restriction is proposed at the junction of Jardine Street with Garriochmill Road. In addition to this, the physical features on Clouston Street, Doune Gardens, Dunard Street, Hathaway Street, Hopehill Road, Hotspur Street, Kelvin Drive, North Woodside Road, Striven Gardens and Wilton Street to prevent vehicular access will also be assessed and upgraded where necessary to better facilitate cyclist permeability.”

We think this means that measures will be taken to prevent car parking where there are already filters across streets!

A query on the drawings was raised by phone with the Assistant Group Manager, Traffic and Road Safety in the afternoon of 03 March and 2 hours later this reply was received:

“Further to your telephone conversation with AB, Assistant Group Manager, Traffic and Road Safety, he has advised of a discrepancy regarding the “No entry except cycles” signage in the drawing 001 for the proposed North Kelvin and North Woodside parking control scheme. This has now been rectified and the online drawings available have been updated to show this.

I note your request for the location of proposed “Prohibition of driving, except pedal cycles” restrictions and can disclose that they are at the following locations (all areas where there is a physical barrier preventing vehicles from driving on the carriageway):-

Avenuepark Street

Clouston Street

Doune Quadrant

Hathaway Street

Kelvin Drive

Striven Gardens

The prohibition of driving except cycles on Shakespeare Street (northwards) and Maryhill Road onto Trossachs Street will remain in place.

Pedal cycles will also be permitted to travel in both directions through the Bus Gate on Hotspur Street and through the Fire Path on the north carriageway of Wilton Street.

As previously discussed there are no plans at this time to include contraflow cycling within the one way streets in this area. “

So there we are, better than it could be but it is still disconcerting that the City Council is ignoring the evidence on contraflow cycling.

1.6 **NEW** Glasgow, Low Emission Zone Phase 2, online consultation, closes 29 March

Here’s the email that we received on 25 February:

“Good Afternoon

Glasgow’s Low Emission Zone (LEZ) was introduced in 2018 to reduce air pollution from road traffic and to protect public health.

Our LEZ affects local service buses only at present, however its second phase, which is expected to be enforced from 31 December 2022, will apply to all vehicles driving into the city centre zone, including private cars.

LEZ Public Consultation

To inform how Glasgow City Council should implement the second phase of our LEZ, we are seeking views through consultation on key local aspects; including its boundary, enforcement dates and temporary exemptions – as well as how it might affect your future transport choices. The online consultation is open until 29 March 2020 and can be accessed at this link.

LEZ Stakeholder Workshop

To complement the online consultation, we are holding a Stakeholder Workshop on Tuesday 10 March 2020 at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall and we would be delighted if you would attend.

Taking part in this Consultation Workshop will give you the chance to discuss and share your opinions on Glasgow’s LEZ.  There will also be the opportunity to hear from council air quality officers as well as Transport Scotland and Cllr Anna Richardson, Convener for Sustainability and Carbon Reduction.

Registration is required to attend the Consultation Workshop as spaces are limited. Should you or a colleague be able to attend, please reserve your place (link removed by GoBike)

Lunch and refreshments will be provided.

Many thanks.

Sustainable Glasgow
Neighbourhoods & Sustainability
Glasgow City Council“

One of GoBike’s committee members will be attending and we will have feedback in Digest 56 in 2 weeks, but do remember to complete the survey on the council website. It’s an easy one to do, but concerning that they propose exemptions! There’s always a get-out for the bad guy! So please do the survey and let’s get the air in Glasgow cleaner.

1.7 Scottish Government — Fourth National Planning Framework, closes 31 March

We mentioned the drop-in sessions and workshops for this consultation back in Digest 53, Item 2.1. There’s a drop-in session and workshop in Glasgow on 17 March, see this link for details of this and other events round Scotland.

The same link gives details of just how important this consultation is and GoBike member Sebastian says ” The NPF4 will be a hugely important Government plan for Scotland up to 2050 – it decides national investment, development and infrastructure plans for the future. They have said they will use is to take forward the transport projects needed for the future (from STPR2) – so a big opportunity to re-state what infrastructure we think is needed for cycling and active travel. NPF3 in 2014 included the National Cycling and Walking Network so NPF4 must do much more.“

We were also told about this by our friends in Transform Scotland; see this link to their website.

Do we have a volunteer to write GoBike’s response?

1.8 **NEW** Glasgow, Hutchesontown (New Gorbals) Parking Controls, closes 13 April

GoBike committee member, Thomas alerted us to this consultation, which we need to study. There are moves to prevent commuter parking, but a quick glance at the drawings shows a key for “proposed one / two way operation except pedal cycles”, which looks promising.

If you live or work in this area, or cycle through, do please have a look on the City Council’s website and let us know, at consultations@gobike.org the good and any bad points. We’ll have more information for you in Digest 56 or 57.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

2.1 Scottish Government — Fourth National Planning Framework, drop-in session and workshop, Glasgow, 17 March

See Item 1.7 above and this link for details of the drop-in session and workshop to be held at the Women’s Library in Bridgeton on 17 March.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Yorkhill and Kelvingrove Community Council Cycling Village consultation event held on 19 February, brief notes

Brief notes from GoBike committee member, Brenda, who attended the event on 19 February (advertised in Item 1.2 in Digest 54)

• Centred on Argyle Street from PC World to a bit past the Kelvinhaugh Street junction.
• Current plans appear to include:
• Traffic lights at Argyle Street /Kelvinhaugh Street /Derby Street junction
• Derby Street and Kelvingrove Street to be one-way (opposite directions) between (at least) Sauchiehall Street and Argyle Street
• Bi-directional cycleways in Kelvinhaugh Street and Derby Street (and presumably Kelvingrove Street )
• Possibility of removing parking from the south side of Argyle Street and having charging points for electric mobility scooters / wheelchairs / e-bikes

Overall, it does look as if things have moved on quite a bit since some time ago when we were shown plans of cycle lanes behind Kelvinhall but it does look as if improvements for people walking and cycling are at a fairly developed stage of planning.

The Community Council in this area is particularly active in its attempts to improve life for its residents. It’s a shame we don’t have active Community Councils right across the city.

3.2 ScotRail, future of Cycle Forum uncertain, with completion of contract by Kathryn MacKay, Cycling Officer

GoBike has attended the ScotRail Cycle Forum over the years but here is some perturbing news, with this email that we received on 18 February:

“Dear Cycle Forum Member.

I write to advise you that Kathryn’s contract as Cycling Manager with ScotRail will come to an end at the end of this month.

In the short term, I would ask that all enquiries regarding cycling activities be directed towards my colleague (name and contact details removed by GoBike).

In the longer term, a review of our resource allocation is taking place in respect of priorities for the remaining two years of the franchise, and the key objectives of the recently published National Transport Strategy 2.

During her time with ScotRail, Kathryn has made a significant contribution to the development of our cycling programme and has overseen a number of successful pieces of work. It has been a pleasure working with her and I am sure you will join me in wishing her all the best for the future.

I will be sending out a note to the wider stakeholders group later today but wanted you to know first.

Regards

James
James Ledgerwood
Head of Economic Development & Communities
ScotRail“

Kathryn oversaw the introduction of the new 385 Class trains on the Edinburgh – Glasgow service and it is no doubt down to her that, while not perfect, we have as much bike carriage as we have on our trains. Let’s hope they take on a new Cycling Officer.

3.3 North Lanarkshire, Local Development Plan update

Here’s the email that we received on 21 February from North Lanarkshire Council:

“Dear Sir/Madam,

NORTH LANARKSHIRE LOCAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN UPDATE

Our modified proposed Local Development Plan went out to consultation last year.

We have since been reviewing the comments provided and the Planning Committee will be considering our responses at its meeting on 27 February 2020.

The relevant documents can be viewed at: www.northlanarkshire.gov.uk/planningdocuments

Should you wish further information please contact us at Yourplan@northlan.gov.uk or phone 01236 632622 for assistance.

Strategy and Policy Team
North Lanarkshire Council
Enterprise and Communities
Fleming House
2 Tryst Road
Cumbernauld
G67 1JW
Telephone Number: 01236 632646

3.4 Glasgow, Ardencraig Road Traffic Calming, City Council’s response to our proposals

In Digest 54, Item 3.3, we published our submission for the proposal to install speed cushions on Ardencraig Road. On 24 February we received the following response, which continues Glasgow’s love affair with speed cushions:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF KEVIN HAMILTON, HEAD OF ROADS, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Ms Fort

Thank you for your attached enquiry.

Whilst I appreciate your concerns regarding the installation of speed cushions on Ardencraig Road, I can advise that this section is focused on reducing injury accidents throughout the city. The council has limited funding and resources available to implement traffic calming schemes and in order to make sure these resources are directed at the locations with the greatest potential for casualty reduction, a site risk assessment is undertaken for each request. This process assesses the location against criteria including the history of injury accidents, measured vehicle speeds and the presence of any local amenities such as being close to a nearby school or nursery. Given the presence of Miller Primary School and the results of a recent speed survey carried out on this section of Ardencraig Road, this location met the criteria for the introduction of traffic calming measures.

With respect to your comments regarding a default speed limit of 20mph in Glasgow, I can advise the Council are currently seeking to implement mandatory 20mph city-wide speed limit restrictions on appropriate roads. It should be noted however that not all within Glasgow roads will be appropriate for the lower limit.

I can further advise that whilst the principles of Designing Streets should be applied on existing roads where practical, this would be subject to re-design and would involve considerable costs to the Council. Designing Streets is expected to be used predominantly for the design, construction, adoption and maintenance of new streets.

Finally, you may be aware that the Council and are currently running a pilot project known as School Car Free Zones. The project is running for an initial trial period of 18 months across 6 selected schools where it is known that traffic related issues at the beginning and end of the school day already occur. If the trial proves successful, it is anticipated that this project will be extended to include additional schools in appropriate locations across the city. Schools have been advised to contact the Council should they wish to be included within any future phase of the School Car Free Zone project.

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

3.5 Glasgow, Belmont, confirmation of Traffic Management Order

In Digest 50, Item 3.1 we supported the move to prohibit commuter parking in this area and on 25 February we received this confirmation that the Order was approved:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF KEVIN  HAMILTON, HEAD OF ROADS, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Sir/Madam

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (BELMONT), (TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT) ORDER 2005 (VARIATION NO.2) ORDER 2020

I am writing to notify you that the above named Traffic Regulation Order was made on 18 February 2020 to improve the safety and the actual and perceived security of travelling within the City by reducing accidents and enhancing the personal security of all users of the transport network.

This Order will:

• Prevent commuters parking all day, giving residents priority over these commuters.
• Reduce the availability of long term free parking to discourage people from using their private car to commute to work and thereby encouraging them to use other methods of travel such as public transport, walking and cycling. This can reduce congestion and pollution.

An advert will be placed in the Evening Times on 26 February 2020 stating that the Traffic Regulation Order has been made.

All those who objected to or supported the proposals will now be written to again and advised of the decision.

Please find attached a copy of the plans for your information.

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

The plan attached to the email shows just how much resident parking there is in this area – quite a bit.

A further email on 26 February included this information :

“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 18^th February 2020 and an advert was placed in the Evening Times on 26^th February 2020 stating that the Traffic Regulation Order has been made.“

3.6 Glasgow, Castlemilk Drive Traffic Calming, City Council’s response to our proposals

In Digest 54, Item 3.5, we published our response to the proposals for the installation of traffic calming measures, ie speed cushions, on Castlemilk Drive. Here’s the City Council’s rebuttal of our alternative proposals, received on 26 February:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF KEVIN HAMILTON, HEAD OF ROADS, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY

Dear Ms Fort

Thank you for your attached enquiry.

Whilst I appreciate your concerns regarding the installation of speed cushions on Castlemilk Drive, I can advise that this section is focused on reducing injury accidents throughout the city. The council has limited funding and resources available to implement traffic calming schemes and in order to make sure these resources are directed at the locations with the greatest potential for casualty reduction, a site risk assessment is undertaken for each request. This process assesses the location against criteria including the history of injury accidents, measured vehicle speeds and the presence of any local amenities such as being close to a nearby school or nursery. Given the results of a recent speed survey carried out on this section of Castlemilk Drive, analysis of the Police Scotland injury accident database and the presence of the nearby primary school, this location met the criteria for the introduction of traffic calming measures.

With respect to your comments regarding a default speed limit of 20mph in Glasgow, I can advise the Council are currently seeking to implement mandatory 20mph city-wide speed limit restrictions on appropriate roads. It should be noted however that not all roads within Glasgow will be appropriate for this limit.

I can further advise that whilst the principles of Designing Streets should be applied on existing roads where practical, this would be subject to re-design and would involve considerable costs to the Council. Designing Streets is expected to be used predominantly for the design, construction, adoption and maintenance of new streets.

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

There we have it: disappointing news about the use of “Designing Streets” and no consideration of our contention that installing cycle lanes would narrow the road and reduce traffic speeds.

3.7 Glasgow, Connecting Woodside, Garscube Road, work started on 2-way segregated cycle lane

Here’s some better news: work has started on the 2-way cycle lanes on the east side of Garscube Road, part of the Connecting Woodside works, (shame it’s not 2 1-way lanes, but, hey, it’s better than some of the items in this Digest). Here’s an email from one of our members, who is also a member of his Community Council, sent out on 27 February:

GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL(SAWMILLFIELD STREET, GLASGOW)(TEMPORARY TRAFFIC REGULATION) ORDER 2020 

I am pleased to advise that construction of the first phase of the Connecting Woodside project, a two-way segregated cycle lane on the eastern side of Garscube Road commenced on 24 February 2020. 
J McGeady Ltd is the appointed contractor to undertake the construction works. 
During the construction phase, a Temporary Traffic Regulation order will be in place on the eastern part of Sawmillfield street at junction with Edington. This section will be inaccessible by the general public as it will  be used as the main compound by the contractor. Traffic management will be utilised to prevent unnecessary disruption for both pedestrians and vehicular traffic using Garscube Road and the surrounding roads network.  
I trust this is of assistance; however, should you require any further information, please contact Sustainabletransport@glasgow.gov.uk  
Christine Francis, Head of Technical Services, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability“

3.8 Glasgow University, March newsletter from Multiplex

Latest newsletter on what’s happening at this University.

3.9 North Toryglen Greenspace & Active Travel Project update

It’s while since we heard much from Toryglen but here’s the latest update received on 02 March:

Dear All,

North Toryglen Greenspace & Active Travel Project

The latest design proposals were showcased at an information session in Toryglen Community Base on Tuesday 18th February. Thanks to everyone who came along.  For those interested to find out more, please see the latest updates on the project webpage here https://www.urbanroots.org.uk/northtoryglen/

There’s some good stuff going on here: do take a look.

3.10 South Lanarkshire, new cycle lanes!

GoBike member, Derek, told us about this, though we don’t recall any consultation coming our way:

Surprise announcement by South Lanarkshire Council that they’re starting to build a short stretch of segregated cycle way in East Kilbride on Monday. Hadn’t heard anything or seen plans beforehand. See: https://twitter.com/southlancouncil/status/1233425786574639104?s=21.

3.11 Glasgow, Active Travel Forum

Some news from GoBike committee member, Calum, who attended the recent Active Travel Forum in Glasgow on 26 February:

Officer update from Steve Gray, including updates on many items where GoBike has responded to consultation:

• Garscube Road construction started on Monday (see Item 3.7 above)
• East City Way works are to start at Mount Vernon from 01 April
• South City Way, Queens Park to Five Ways, ie Cumberland Street to be complete May 2020 (not before time, do I hear you say?)
• Wallacewell Road – Spring on site – this is upgraded and new cycle lanes
• Battlefield – paternity leave caused delay to consultation planned for 18 February (see item 2.1 in Digest 54) cancelled at very short notice
• George Square – working on Experimental TRO for July 2020, reducing traffic around the square for an initial 18 months.
• Underline Avenue works from Cambridge Street to St George’s Road – delayed until after COP26 to start of 2021. Embargo on construction works, related to security cordons for the event.
• Sighthill bridge over the M8, construction begins in March

3.12 Sheriffhall success – what next? Update from Scottish Greens

You might remember that in Digest 52, Item 1.1, we published a message put out by Alison Johnstone, the Green MSP, asking us to oppose the construction of a massive roundabout at Sheriffhall? Here’s the next step:

“Success!

Thanks to you and the thousands of other supporters who objected to the £120m Sheriffhall flyover, we’ve secured a review of this congestion-fuelling, climate-busting scheme. We hope that this will lead to this project being scrapped in favour of green transport investment instead.

The commitment was part of a budget deal the Scottish Greens negotiated that also includes a commitment to introduce free bus travel for all under-19s from next year and a £45m climate emergency package that includes more funding for cycling and walking.

Read all about the Green budget deal.

What’s next?

As the transport spokesperson for the Scottish Greens in Edinburgh, I’ll be writing to the leaders of Edinburgh and Midlothian councils, Adam McVey and Derek Milligan, and to the Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Michael Matheson, to urge them to change the plans for Sheriffhall. I’ll tell them about your strength of support for investing £120m in cycling and walking, instead of building a flyover that will only increase congestion, air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

If politicians like Adam McVey and Michael Matheson want to declare a climate emergency, then they need to act on it!

Claire Miller
Green councillor and transport spokesperson in Edinburgh Council”

________________________________________________

Heartwarming to end with some good news. Let’s hope there is more in our next Digest, due out on 17 March.

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. **NEW** Scotland’s Low Emission Zones: Consultation on Regulations and Guidance, closes 24 February
2. Scottish Government, Housing to 2040: consultation on outline policy options, closes 28 February
3. **NEW-ish** Glasgow, Connecting Woodside, commonplace map for comments closes 09 March
4. **NEW** East Dunbartonshire, Dalkeith Avenue, Wellington Road and Westerhill Road, Bishopbriggs, No Waiting and No Loading at any time, closes 16 March

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. Glasgow, additional South City Way event for Battlefield extension, TODAY, 18 February, 4-6pm, Langside Library, Sinclair Drive
2. Glasgow, Yorkhill & Kelvingrove Community Council Cycling Village consultation, TOMORROW, 19 February

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. North Lanarkshire Council tell us about the new Scottish Transforming Planning Website
2. Glasgow, Central District Regeneration Framework, submission and acknowledgement
3. Glasgow, Ardencraig Road, Traffic Calming, submission
4. Glasgow, Bankfoot Road and Wedderlea Drive, Traffic Calming, submission
5. Glasgow, Castlemilk Drive, Traffic Calming Submission
6. Glasgow, Mosspark Drive Traffic Calming, submission
7. Glasgow, Carmunnock Road Service Road, One-Way with no contraflow, submission
8. Glasgow, South Side Car Club TRO, submission
9. North Lanarkshire, £5 million electric vehicle charging network
10. Glasgow, Byres Road Traffic Management & Parking (for cycle lanes),submission
11. Glasgow, Byres Road 20mph TRO, submission
12. Glasgow, Hillhead Traffic Management and Parking Controls TRO, submission
13. East Dunbartonshire, Bearsden Town Centre, Waiting & Loading Restrictions confirmed.
14. Glasgow, Celtic Park & Emirates Arena, Event Day Emergency Routes and Parking Zone, Order 20__, Public Hearing 10 March
15. Glasgow, Ibrox Stadium, Event Day Emergency Routes and Parking Zone, Order 20__, Public Hearing 11 March
16. Glasgow University Campus Development February update
17. Glasgow, Good News with some Progress on Contraflow Cycling

Section 1: Current Consultations in date order for response

1.1 **NEW** Scotland’s Low Emission Zones: Consultation on Regulations and Guidance, closes 24 February

GoBike member, Steph, has alerted us to the Scottish Government’s consultation on Low Emission Zones. As with the next item on Housing, it’s a bit confusing at first, but do give it a try if you are concerned about all the pollution in our urban centres. There does seem to be a presumption that contravening an LEZ is a bit like a parking infringement, ie an inconvenience, rather than something that is causing ill-health and death, particularly for the disadvantaged in our society. No doubt cycle uptake would increase if our streets were cleaner, too.

1.2 Scottish Government, Housing to 2040: consultation on outline policy options, closes 28 February

This consultation featured as Item 1.12 in Digest 53 and here’s the link again: https://www.gov.scot/publications/housing-2040-consultation-outline-policy-options/pages/3/

This is the link to the start of your response: https://consult.gov.scot/housing-services-policy-unit/housing-to-2040/consultation/intro/

I found it all a bit confusing but did manage to mention active travel and my preference for terraced and tenement-style housing linked with good cycleways. Give it a try and let’s get active travel ranked above the private car.

1.3 **NEW-ish** Glasgow, Connecting Woodside, commonplace map for comments closes 09 March

We’ve had lots of news about Woodside but the latest update signals the closure of the commonplace map on 09 March. It’s good to read that 22 dropped kerbs and 80 bike parking stands have been installed in the project area to date, so do have a look and see what else is needed.

1.4 **NEW** East Dunbartonshire, Dalkeith Avenue, Wellington Road and Westerhill Road, Bishopbriggs, No Waiting and No Loading at any time, closes 16 March

This proposal, to remove on-street parking from a short section of Westerhill Road just off Kirkintilloch Road in Bishopbriggs and the junction areas with Dalkeith Avenue and Wellington Road, arrived by email on 11 February from East Dunbartonshire Council:

“PROPOSED: THE EAST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL (DALKEITH AVENUE, WELLINGTON ROAD AND WESTERHILL ROAD, BISHOPBRIGGS) ( NO WAITING AND NO LOADING AT ANY TIME RESTRICTIONS) ORDER

The Council is promoting a Traffic Regulation Order which would introduce no waiting and no loading at any time restrictions.
Enclosed is a copy of the draft Order, plan and Statement of Reasons, together with a copy of the Notice that is to appear in the Bishopbriggs Herald which is published on 12 February 2020
Should you wish to comment on the proposal you must do so in writing by Monday, 16 March 2020.
Your comments should be sent to Chief Solicitor & Monitoring Officer, Legal Services, 12 Strathkelvin Place, Kirkintilloch, G66 1TJ.
(See attached file: 200211Dalkeith Ave- Wellington Rd – Westerhill Rd Order.pdf)

Regards
Fiona Stirling
Legal Services
12 Strathkelvin Place
Kirkintilloch G66 1TJ“

Given the commercial properties in the vicinity and the tendency of people to leave their cars/vans at or near junctions inconveniencing others, particularly people walking or cycling, this proposal seems very sensible. Unless you out there tell us otherwise, this is one that GoBike will be supporting.

Back in June last year, in Digest 37, Item 3.4 were details of an earlier TRO that we had supported, removing on-road parking from further along Westerhill Road, outside commercial units.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

2.1 Glasgow, additional South City Way event for Battlefield extension, TODAY, 18 February, 4-6pm, Langside Library, Sinclair Drive

As per our Consultation Extra of 07 February, there is a further consultation event this afternoon for the Queen’s Drive residents who missed all the earlier publicity and meetings. It’s open to all, takes place TODAY, 18 February at Langside Library on Sinclair Drive. Do get along if you can.

2.2 Glasgow, Yorkhill & Kelvingrove Community Council Cycling Village consultation, TOMORROW, 19 February

Do get along to the cycle village consultation on Wed 19 Feb at the Kelvingrove tennis pavilion 5-7.30pm. Get along and have your say, if you live, work, play or cycle in the area.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 North Lanarkshire Council tell us about the new Scottish Transforming Planning Website

3.2 Glasgow, Central District Regeneration Framework, submission and acknowledgement

Here’s the response, submitted on 06 February, written by GoBike committee member, Brenda, to this consultation, featured in previous Digests, most recently, Digest 53, Item 1.6. In a nutshell, the framework is good but needs sharpening up if we are to transform our city centre.

Here’s the acknowledgement, received later that day:

“Hi Tricia,
Thanks very much for your email and the attached documents. I will include this representation within the wider responses received as part of the Central DRF public consultation exercise.
Please let me know if you require anything further.
Best regards,” etc

3.3 Glasgow, Ardencraig Road, Traffic Calming, submission

This consultation, which was introduced in Digest 52, Item 1.5, closed on 11 February. The proposal, to slow motor traffic down on this straight road past houses and schools, was by using the City Council’s only solution, the installation of speed cushions. We think much more could be done – here’s our letter in response to the proposals.

3.4 Glasgow, Bankfoot Road and Wedderlea Drive, Traffic Calming, submission

The consultation to install traffic calming speed cushions in these two roads was Item 1.6 in Digest 52. GoBike fully supports lower traffic speeds but objects to the standard policy of installing speed cushions in every location. Here’s our response to the consultation.

3.5 Glasgow, Castlemilk Drive, Traffic Calming Submission

Castlemilk Drive forms part of the route from the city centre, past King’s Park and Croftfoot railway stations to the Cathkin Braes Country Park and Mountain Bike Centre. The proposal to install speed cushions to reduce motor traffic speeds in this residential area featured in Digest 52, Item 1.7. A half-hearted attempt was made prior to the 2014 Commonwealth Games to provide a cycle route from the city to the Braes, but a significant part was on the footways etc; it certainly wasn’t a route that children could use. Glasgow has relatively low car ownership and Castlemilk is one of its less affluent suburbs, yet the road is to be maintained as one for cars. Here’s our letter objecting to the standard policy of speed cushions and looking for something more appropriate.

3.6 Glasgow, Mosspark Drive Traffic Calming, submission

The traffic calming proposal for Mosspark Drive featured as Item 1.5 in Digest 53. The standard speed cushion proposal takes no account of the possibilities of blocking through motor traffic, of installing zebra crossings to allow people to cross safely to the park area or to tightening the radius of the turn from Mosspark Boulevard to 90 degrees. Here’s our letter of response.

3.7 Glasgow, Carmunnock Road Service Road, One-Way with no contraflow, submission

The details of this consultation were first given in Digest 52, Item 1.10 but we had previously been invited to comment at Stage One. Our response at that Stage went in on 10 January and we have received no response to the concerns we expressed. In a nutshell, the City Council responded to residents’ concerns about “traffic” on the road by proposing that it be made one-way. There was no mention, as far as we can see, about cycles; are they included in the one-way or not? Are people cycling going to be pushed to use the main road, or not? Here’s the reply we sent in on 10 February, very similar to our response at Stage One.

3.8 Glasgow, South Side Car Club TRO, submission

Details of this TRO were first given in Digest 52, Item 1.9. With the assistance of GoBike member, Brenda, we had responded to the Stage One consultation with this letter, to which we received a fairly general response. We have sharpened up our concerns to objections in this response. The objections are to: charging points/car club spaces on arterial routes such as Paisley Road West, where there should be a cycle lane, on streets with shops at ground floor level and where long-term parking is inappropriate.

Soon after submission, on 12 February, we received this detailed email in response:

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

Dear Ms Fort

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (SOUTH SIDE CAR CLUB), ORDER 202_

Thank you for your correspondence regarding the above named Traffic Regulation Order on behalf of Go Bike.
In answer to the points Go Bike have raised:

• The electric charging bays will be free for use only while the vehicle is charging. It is intended to replace current internal combustion engine car club with electric in future and the standard electric charging bays will be converted to car club only as the fleet is updated.
• There is low take up of electric cars at present and as you state this will change in future and it is the Council’s intention to encourage electric use for the environmental benefits. The Council is committed to expanding and encouraging sustainable transport but a balance is required to promote development in line with our policies and aspirations and further details are available at link to EV strategy development info.
• The Council’s intention is for all car club vehicles to be electric in future and the order as presented allows for this growth while providing improved charging facilities for existing electric vehicles.
• Car Club bays on arterial routes have been located to provide suitable locations which can be easily located and accessed for users. Cycle infrastructure is being developed on major routes and the existing infrastructure will be considered and developed when each route is designed. Each route is likely to require a Traffic Regulation Order to implement and the car club and electric charging will be considered an amended as appropriate at this time.
• The Council are providing car club and electric charging to help address the environmental issues facing us. The future of mass charging and faster charging will be considered as development and policies change.
• The locations close to shops will provide potential charging for delivery vehicles and each site has significant residential premises which are an ideal target to encourage residents to change private cars for car club vehicles.
• If space permits consideration will be given to perpendicular parking, the sites currently promoted are not suitable for this measure.

It is unclear from your response if you are supporting or objecting to this order, I will classify it as an objection unless otherwise advised.

Having considered the above, should you wish to withdraw your objection I would be pleased if you would inform me by 6^th March by writing to Group Manager, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability, exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX or e-mailing SustainableTransport@glasgow.gov.uk.

If you do not wish to withdraw your objection then there is no requirement for you to write to us again.

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

Yours sincerely“

A telephone conversation with the writer of the above email has clarified that Paisley Road West is not yet listed as a candidate for cycle lanes, which is disappointing, but as per the email above, the City Council’s policy on electric cars and charging is clearer. Our comments and objection to parts of the proposals is seen as an objection to the TRO.

3.9 North Lanarkshire, £5 million electric vehicle charging network

The approach from North Lanarkshire seems to be quite different from that of Glasgow. We haven’t been told about any consultation yet, but here’s an email alert issued on 13 February:

“Our Environment and Transportation Committee has backed a project which could see up to £5m investment in Electric Vehicle (EV) charging and electricity network infrastructure across Lanarkshire.

The public use hubs will be created in car parks owned and operated by both North and South Lanarkshire Councils, in a bid to meet ambitious plans by the Scottish Government to phase out the need for new petrol and diesel cars and vans by 2032.

Members of the committee were told that preparatory work with Transport Scotland and SP Energy Networks is underway, as part of Project PACE, which aims to determine optimum EV charge point locations and the electricity network infrastructure required to support them.

Locations being considered align with areas of potential demand, taking into account existing electricity infrastructure location and capacity, available land and the need to provide public access.

Councillor Michael McPake, Convener of the Environment and Transportation Committee, welcomed the decision to support the project, saying: “This is an innovative, ambitious plan for Lanarkshire that will see a real increase in the electric vehicle charging infrastructure on the ChargePlace Scotland network in North Lanarkshire, by the end of this year.

“The Scottish Government targets aim to phase out the need for new petrol and diesel cars and vans by 2032, and these plans are designed to pave the way for that to become a reality. The new network will contribute to reducing air pollution and providing access to clean energy for our residents, and the project fits with this council’s ambition to be the place to live, learn, work, invest and visit.”

The Strategic Partnership between the Scottish Government, including Transport Scotland, SP Energy Networks and Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks was announced by the First Minister on 29 August 2019.

Since the launch of the partnership, SP Energy Networks and Transport Scotland have established Project PACE with North Lanarkshire Council and South Lanarkshire Council, as beneficiaries to trial opportunities to improve the delivery and co-ordination of investment in electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

It’s looking like on-street (and, of more concern, with the actual charging points being on footways) in Glasgow and in public car parks in North and South Lanarkshire.

3.10 Glasgow, Byres Road Traffic Management & Parking (for cycle lanes),submission

We have now responded to Glasgow City Council’s proposals for changes on Byres Road to allow construction of a cycle lane on each side with this letter, written by GoBike members Iona and Thomas. Detailed design details for the cycle lanes were not part of the TRO but you will see that we have concerns about the continuity and thus priority, of the cycling, and walking, routes at side road junctions. It is critical that ALL traffic on Byres Road has priority over traffic entering, or leaving, a side road.

Full details of the TRO were given in Digest 52, Item 1.11

3.11 Glasgow, Byres Road 20mph TRO, submission

Here’s part of the Byres Road proposals that we fully support! Again, full details of the proposed reduction in speed limit to 20mph were given in Digest 52, Item 1.12 and here’s our letter of support, written by GoBike members Thomas and Iona.

3.12 Glasgow, Hillhead Traffic Management and Parking Controls TRO, submission

We have submitted this letter, again written by Iona and Thomas, in general support of moving parked vehicles from Byres Road into vacant spaces in the surrounding streets, but we do have 2 concerns:

1. Why are parking charges so low in Glasgow? Why is it cheaper to park a car on a street for an hour than it is to get a return ticket for the bus or subway?
2. Why should households be given the option of storing not one, but two, private cars on the public street?

Full details of the proposals were given in Digest 52, Item 1.13

3.13 East Dunbartonshire, Bearsden Town Centre, Waiting & Loading Restrictions confirmed.

Here’s the email confirming this order that we received on 10 February.

“The above-mentioned Traffic Regulation Orders has now been made and will become effective on Monday, 13 April 2020. Enclosed are copies of the Order and plan, together with copy of the Notice that is to appear in the edition of the Milngavie and Bearsden Herald which is published on 14 February 2020.”

Here are the details that were enclosed with the email. GoBike supported this proposal and details were given in Digest

3.14 Glasgow, Celtic Park & Emirates Arena, Event Day Emergency Routes and Parking Zone, Order 20__, Public Hearing 10 March

In 2018 consultation was issued on Event Day Emergency Routes and Parking, which GoBike supported with this letter. We last reported on this in Digest 25 in January 2019 after we were told there was to be a hearing. It seemed clear then that supporters had been mobilised to object to the proposals, although there are valid concerns about the lack or inadequacy of public transport to the football stadium and the arena and parking moving to areas further away from the stadium.
On 07 February, we received this extremely long email from the City Council:

“THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL (CELTIC PARK AND EMIRATES ARENA) (EVENT DAY EMERGENCY ROUTES AND PARKING ZONE) ORDER 20__

PUBLIC HEARING

We refer to the above proposed order, the representation you have made about the proposed order, and the letter dated 20 December 2018 which was sent to you from the Director of Operations, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability in this regard.

Glasgow City Council has now appointed Ms Sinéad Lynch and Mr Lance R Guilford, reporters from the Scottish Government, to conduct a public hearing and submit a report to the council. The council has also established a dedicated Programme Officer Team to assist with the organisation of the hearing.

Participation in the hearing

The reporters have decided that since it is now over a year since the above letter was sent to you, we should write again in order to confirm those who wish to participate in the hearing. We are providing more information to help you decide.

If you decide not to participate in the hearing, your representation will be considered on the basis of your original written submission, although you may submit a further written submission in support of your representation within the next 28 days if you wish to do so. It is also important to note that all representations proceeding by written submission will have the same weight as those examined at the hearing.

Therefore, whether or not you responded to the above letter, please advise us within the next 14 days if you wish to participate in the hearing.

Pre-hearing meeting

Given the complex nature of this order and the significant number of representations that have been made, the reporters have decided that a pre-hearing meeting for hearing participants is necessary. This meeting will be held in public and will discuss the procedures relating to the hearing. However, there will be no discussion about the merits or otherwise of the order at this meeting.

The meeting will take place as follows:

7pm on Tuesday 10^th March 2020 in the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall (Exhibition Hall), 19 Killermont Street, Glasgow, G2 3NX

The reporters hope that most hearing participants will attend the pre-hearing meeting, in order to ensure as far as possible that the arrangements for the hearing take everyone’s interest into account.

We enclose an agenda, together with an explanatory note which provides detailed information about the matters to be discussed. Please read this information to help you prepare for the meeting.

However, the reporters recognise that some people may have prior engagements or other reasons why they cannot attend the pre-hearing meeting, and being unable to attend the pre-hearing meeting does not preclude participation in the hearing. It is suggested that people who cannot attend the meeting may wish to contact another person (or organisation) who will be attending in order to represent their interests. There is more on this contained in the explanatory note attached to the agenda.

In any event, anyone who cannot attend the meeting may comment on the matters contained in theagenda before the date of the pre-hearing meeting. Furthermore, a note of matters agreed at the pre-hearing meeting will be uploaded to the website after the meeting, and comments on what is contained in the note of matters may be made within 14 days of that note being uploaded to the web. All such comments will be taken into account in making the arrangements for the hearing. Please advise us within the next 14 days if you wish to attend the pre-hearing meeting in addition to participating in the hearing. Please also inform us if you intend to be represented (providing the details of any such representation) and advise whether any special access or other arrangements are required to enable attendance at the meeting.if you wish to attend the pre-hearing meeting in addition to participating in the hearing. Please also inform us if you intend to be represented (providing the details of any such representation) and advise whether any special access or other arrangements are required to enable attendance at the meeting.

Owing to the limited capacity within the venue (200 places) an entrance ticket will be provided to those who have made representations about the order and wish to attend the pre-hearing meeting.

You can register for a ticket using the following link:-https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/celtic-park-and-emirates-arena-traffic-regulation-order-pre-hearing-meeting-tickets-90947196513Tickets will be available to download from 4pm On Friday 7^th February 2020

In the event that there is any difficulty relating to the capacity of the venue and the number of people who wish to attend, you will be advised of any action being taken before the date of the meeting.

All representations will be in the public domain

Please note that your representation, if maintained, will not be treated as confidential, and that it will be published unless you provide details of exceptional circumstances as to why you consider that the substance of your representation should not be in the public domain. Exceptional circumstances might apply where publication of the substance of the representation might be considered to breach the provisions of the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) because it cannot be sufficiently separated from identifying personal information which should not be in the public domain.

Alternatively, there might be sensitive information (for example on mental or physical health), the publication of which might be considered to breach the right to privacy under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). In either case you would be advised whether or not such details are sufficient to justify the further redaction of certain information or non-publication of the representation.

However, please note that as a matter of course under GDPR all identifying personal information will be redacted from the representations before they are placed in the public domain. This will include all names, postal addresses, email addresses, telephone numbers, job descriptions and details of business premises.

If we have not heard from you within the next 14 days on this matter, we will assume that you are content that your representation should be in the public domain.

Following this period, the maintained representations (unless excepted under the terms stated above) and related documents will be published on the council’s website. There will also be a brief summary of the matters raised in the representations, and an associated schedule which separates them into basic categories including the type and whether it is an objection or letter of support. This may assist you in preparing for the meeting, particularly with respect to the possible grouping of parties with a similar interest, and which is referred to in more detail in the explanatory note attached to the agenda.

Webcasting

We would advise that the pre-hearing meeting will be recorded and webcast, and therefore in the event that you are unable to attend the meeting, the proceedings may be observed (after the meeting) online at:

https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/article/20480/Celtic-ParkEmirates-Arena

Webcasting is part of a strategy to enhance public access to this process, and will make it easier for individuals to keep up to date with proceedings.

If you require any further information, please contact the programme officer team at the below telephone number or email address.

Yours faithfully,
Programme Officer Team
Email:  TROCelticParkandEmiratesArena@glasgow.gov.uk
Phone: 0141 287 5820 (Please note this phone line is a messaging service only“

Thus there is a massive expense because people wish to leave their cars near the ground on match days, because other people do not want these cars to move to outside their house, because the second loop of the Subway, mooted in 2007, has never been built and we have not yet got the political and social climate in which people will cycle or walk to such events.

GoBike will not be attending the hearing, although we understand our sister group, Get Glasgow Moving, will be there to push the public transport case, but we will confirm our support for the parking restrictions.

3.15 Glasgow, Ibrox Stadium, Event Day Emergency Routes and Parking Zone, Order 20__, Public Hearing 11 March

On the same day, 07 February and just a few minutes later a very similar, almost identical email arrived for Event Day Emergency Routes and Parking around Ibrox Stadium. Although there is a Subway station near the stadium, there are concerns here about the lack of public transport and private car parking being moved further away from the stadium. That said, there is no doubt the football club has mobilised its supporters to object. Here’s the letter of support for the proposals that GoBike submitted in May 2018.

Apologies to anyone who hoped to see the Rangers email in full here, but if you do wish to have a copy either contact the club or email consultations@gobike.org and a copy will be sent to you. The hearing is the day after the Celtic hearing and the details are the same.

GoBike won’t be attending either this or the Parkhead hearing but will confirm our support for parking restrictions on the grounds that all on-street car parking reduces the road space available for cycling and makes it more difficult for people walking to cross the road.

3.16 Glasgow University Campus Development February update

Multiplex, who are carrying out the construction work at Glasgow University, have provided us with details of their website and the link to their February Newsletter

3.17 Glasgow, Good News with some Progress on Contraflow Cycling

For our final item we have some good news. We have objected time and time again to Glasgow City Council’s policy of reducing the city’s residential streets from 2-way to 1-way to allow for more residential parking, with no exemption for cycling. The City Council’s design guide, Cycling by Design, quotes, at Section 5.1.5, page “The default position should be to permit two-way cycling on one-way streets.” The Council’s policy of ignoring, or finding an excuse not to apply, this default has caused great inconvenience to people trying to cycle in Dowanhill, Partick and elsewhere, as well as seeming contrary to everything the City Council says in terms of active travel, reducing car use etc. When Ali, Brenda and Tricia met with City Council staff on 12 December, this issue was raised and on 10 February this email arrived:

“I can advise that, following the meeting you attended in December, I have taken a look at the literature you referenced and linked on the GoBike webpage.   I have now drafted a specific appendix (attached) to be added to the Council’s procedures and guidance when promoting Traffic Regulation Orders and Traffic Calming Schemes. This ensures officers take specific consideration of pedestrians, cyclists and public transport provision. This should be distributed to all officers by the end of the month.   In regards to contra-flow cycling specifically, I agree that this should be considered where it can be done safely. I understand that within the Sustrans Design Manual Handbook for cycle-friendly design it states that 3.3m can accommodate contra-flow cycling, however it is our intention that a minimum free road width should be 3.5m before any consideration can take place (this is consistent with Edinburgh’s Street Design Guidance).   In addition to the above, each situation should be assessed on its own merits and further consideration will be given where vehicles are parked on both sides of the road for short and long lengths, taking into account the gradient of the road and ensuring there is a consistency when proposing changes over a wider area.   I trust this has provided further clarification on the Council’s position and can assure you that the current parking control scheme proposals are being revised to investigate what addition measures can be included to assist cyclists.”

This has yet to be tested but we are told that we will see a difference in approach in forthcoming schemes. Let’s hope so!

__________________________________________

That was a mixed bag – let’s see what the post brings in over the next 2 weeks.

_____________________________________________________________________