Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. Glasgow, Mossvale Road school parking petition, closes ASAP!
2. Glasgow, Pollok Park Transformation, closes 26 September
3. UK Government, Department for Transport, Carbon Offsetting in Transport, closes 26 September
4. Glasgow, Polnoon Avenue, Traffic Calming, closes 30 September
5. East Dunbartonshire, Proposed Traffic Regulation Order – Schools and Bearsden Town Centre, closes 07 October
6. **NEW** Glasgow (Belmont) (Traffic Management) Order 2005 (Variation No.2) Order 201_ – Consultation, Parking, closes 15 October
7. East Dunbartonshire, Proposed Traffic Regulation Order – Killermont Avenue, Rannoch Drive and Woodvale Avenue, parking/loading restrictions, closes 21 October
8. Consultation on Scotland’s National Transport Strategy, closes 23 October

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. Glasgow, Byres Road revised TROs- will they be issued soon?

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Glasgow, Mount Florida, GoBike response to the City Council reply to our objection to the removal of two-way cycling to allow for increased storage of stationary cars.

Section 1: Current Consultations, in date order for response

1.1 Glasgow, Mossvale Road school parking petition, closes ASAP!

Featured in the Evening Times, yesterday, 23 September, is this petition from a concerned parent in Hogganfield worried about all the footway-parking large cars that people use to take their children in to the two schools on Mossvale Road. The Glasgow pilot, which was covered in Digests 34 and 35, only covers 6 schools with none being in the north or east of the city. We saw last week, in Digest 43, Item 1.6 and in Item 1.5 below, that East Dunbartonshire now has more ambitious plans than Glasgow.

Do please read the petition, from Change.org and help increase the numbers asking for this policy of banning cars from school gates to be extended far and wide.

1.2 Glasgow, Pollok Park Transformation, closes 26 September

The Burrell Collection is closed for renovation and upgrade and the City Council is expecting a big flurry of visitors when it reopens next year. Work is ongoing to cater for these visitors, not only those who arrive by private car, but all those people who arrive by public transport or who walk and cycle, but not forgetting everyone who visits Pollok Park for the enjoyment of being in the park.
Comments on the proposals, which may be found here are invited by email until Thursday. There is further information and a video here and you are asked to submit your comments by email to: PollokCountryParkTransformation@glasgowlife.org.uk

Quite a few GoBike members went along to the public consultation event on 10 September and, while we are generally very supportive of the proposals, there are significant improvements we think could be made to ensure that the balance between active and private motor travel reflects current stated policy both by the City Council and the Scottish Government. Comments submitted now will be considered before the planning application and traffic regulation order to allow the work to be done are issued.
The GoBike letter of response, submitted last Thursday, 19 September, is here.

1.3 UK Government, Department for Transport, Carbon Offsetting in Transport, closes 26 September

This consultation has been mentioned in our last two Digests and the link to the relatively short consultation paper is here. One of our members has described carbon offsetting as simply rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic. We have tried to reflect the view that while carbon offsetting might be one tool in the box to address our current issues of congestion, pollution and global warming, there are far more pertinent issues that need to be addressed. Here’s the letter that we submitted last Friday, 20 September.
There’s still time to add your voice – the closing time is 11:45pm on Friday.

1.4 Glasgow, Polnoon Avenue, Traffic Calming, closes 30 September

This is the most curious traffic calming scheme we have seen and it flies in the face of all the guidance about creating streets for people. All the details issued by the City Council were given in Digest 43, Item 1.5. Here’s a detail from the plans that were issued:

You will notice that no overall dimensions are given for the roadway and thus there is no precise figure for the roadway width in which to avoid the speed cushion. Those of us who cycle where there are traffic islands will be aware that these pinch points are the sites of accidents waiting to happen. Islands do help people to cross the road, but so do zebra crossings and given that drivers are known to use the wrong side of the road if there is someone cycling legally past a traffic island, where would that leave the poor pedestrians? We have made what we consider to be robust alternative suggestions, quoting available guidance, in this letter that we submitted on Thursday 19 September.
Please do add your voice to our concerns about such a move.

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

The details of these two proposals were given in Digest 43, Item 1.6 and address two issues. The first is the unfortunate fact that the stipulations of parking at junctions given in the Highway Code may only be enforced if there is a Traffic Regulation Order and the second is the exciting news that East Dunbartonshire propose to ban loading and unloading outside 10 primary schools. This could actually mean that children will have to walk part of the way to school!
Here is our letter of support to these moves, which we submitted on Thursday 19 September.
Please do add your support if you live, work or travel past junctions or primary schools in East Dunbartonshire.

1.6 **NEW** Glasgow (Belmont) (Traffic Management) Order 2005 (Variation No.2) Order 201_ – Consultation, Parking, closes 15 October

Hamilton Gardens is on the site of the old BBC buildings on Hamilton Drive just off Queen Margaret Drive and it seems that commuters by car will seek out any wee space they can to leave their vehicle while they go off to work.

Here’s the email that we received last week from the City Council and it explains the concern:

” Date: 17 September 2019 at 15:20
Subject: FW: THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL (BELMONT) (TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT) ORDER 2005 (VARIATION NO.2) ORDER 201_ – Consultation

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 201_

The Council propose to consider the introduction of the above named Traffic Regulation Order and I wish to establish the preliminary views of your organisation prior to the publication of these proposals.

Background to the proposed Order
Glasgow City Council’s policy is to dissuade commuter parking and encourage more sustainable methods of transport. The Belmont area was identified as being negatively affected by commuter parking and general adverse parking practices including indiscriminate and obstructive parking. Following this, parking controls were put in place. 
Since these controls have been implemented, a new development has been completed in Hamilton Gardens.  This is now an area that we are looking to include within the existing Belmont parking controls.  In view of this the statutory process for proposing parking controls throughout this area has now commenced.

These proposals will improve road safety and pedestrian safety by prohibiting unsafe and obstructive parking.  This would also minimise access problems for any emergency service vehicles such as fire appliances and other services such as cleansing vehicles, etc. for refuse collection.

Area affected by the proposed Order, The roads affected by these proposals are:-
Hamilton Gardens

Details of the proposed Order, The proposed Order (as depicted on the attached plan) will comprise of:-
No Waiting at any time
These restrictions are proposed where waiting is deemed unsafe or undesirable.

Please provide any comments you wish to make on these proposals within 28 days (reply by 15th October 2019).
In the meantime, should you require any further information or clarification on any points arising from the proposals, do not hesitate to contact my assistant (name and phone number removed by GoBike).
Should the Council proceed with these proposals; a copy of the Notice of the proposed Order will be forwarded to you intimating an opportunity to lodge any objections to the proposals.
Yours faithfully“, etc

GoBike will be getting our support in for this as soon as we can – our streets are for moving, not stationary, traffic and Hamilton Drive provides a handy, cycling cut-through, avoiding a busy section of Great Western Road. The fewer cars there the better for us.

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

All the details for this proposal to restrict parking/loading just off Maryhill Road near the car dealership and the golf club were given in Digest 43, Item 1.7.

This is a residential area and parking near the exit to Maryhill Road is a barrier to people who wish to cycle through here. GoBike will be supporting this move.

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

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

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

2.1 Glasgow, Byres Road revised TROs- will they be issued soon?

On 30 August we were emailed with the news that Glasgow City Council are working to issue consultation documents for the revised layout of Byres Road in September. Nothing has been heard yet but as soon as we get the information we will get it out to you.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Glasgow, Mount Florida, GoBike response to the City Council reply to our objection to the removal of two-way cycling to allow for increased storage of stationary cars.

Back in Digest 39, Item 1.4 we published all the details we had received about proposals on waiting and loading restrictions in Mount Florida. We were told that the community want more parking spaces and thus streets are proposed to be made one-way and echelon, or angled parking is to be extended in the area.

GoBike submitted this letter objecting to the removal of two-way cycling, among other concerns, on 22 July.

On 27 August Glasgow City Council replied to us with this email.

We have made further investigations, both of echelon parking and the supposed hazards of contraflow cycling and we commend these links to you:

• Contraflow Cycling, a briefing from the European Transport Safety Council, which reports on studies showing that cycling against the flow of traffic is less hazardous than either cycling with the flow or making large detours on busy streets to avoid one-way sections.
• Echelon parking, a document from the USA, which strongly recommends that drivers reverse into angled parking places, listing the advantages of such a practice. The main positives are that the driver is able to see oncoming traffic and passengers, particularly children, exit the car towards the footway and not into the roadway.

We have sent this reply to Glasgow City Council today, 24 September, in which we also mention a Scottish Government document, Designing Streets and refer to Nairn Street in Yorkhill, see below, where contraflow cycling has been authorised.

____________________________________________

That’s it for now. Hope you enjoy the September weekend, whatever you are doing. The next Digest is planned for 15 October – but, if we hear news of proposals for Byres Road, we’ll be in touch.

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

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

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

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

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

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

Section 1: Current Consultations, in date order for response

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dear Sir / Madam
The Glasgow City Council (Pearce Lane) Traffic Regulation Order 201_

The Council propose to consider the introduction of the above named Traffic Regulation Order and I wish to establish the preliminary views of your organisation prior to the publication of these proposals.

Background to the proposed Order
Pearce Lane has been identified as being negatively affected by indiscriminate and obstructive parking practices which can make access difficult for larger vehicles to gain access e.g. refuse vehicles and fire engines.  Vehicles are also regularly parking on, and obstruct, footways which is a safety risk for pedestrians.

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

·        No waiting and no loading and unloading at any time

Please provide any comments you wish to make on these proposals within 21 days (reply by 23^rd September 2019).
In the meantime, should you require any further information or clarification on any points arising from the proposals, do not hesitate to contact my assistant (name and number removed by GoBike)
Should the Council proceed with these proposals; a copy of the Notice of the proposed Order will be forwarded to you intimating an opportunity to lodge any objections to the proposals.
Yours faithfully” etc

Here’s the plan referred to above. If you use this route do write in and support the proposal.
This is the GoBike letter of support.

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

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

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF KEVIN HAMILTON, HEAD OF ROADS
NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY
Dear Sir / Madam
The Glasgow City Council, (Glencairn Drive), Traffic Calming Scheme 20__

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

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

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

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

Please provide any comments you wish to make on these proposals within 21 days (Reply by 24 September 2019).
Please reply directly to LandServices.Mailroom@glasgow.gov.uk.
In the meantime, should you require any further information or clarification on any points arising from the proposals, do not hesitate to contact my assistant (name and contact number removed by GoBike)
Should the Council proceed with these proposals; I will write to you again and confirm this.
Yours faithfully” etc

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

Here’s a view of Glencairn Drive:

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

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

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

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

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

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

but there are concerns:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF KEVIN HAMILTON, HEAD OF ROADS
NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY
Dear Sir / Madam
The Glasgow City Council, (Polnoon Avenue), Traffic Calming Scheme 20__

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

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

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

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

Please provide any comments you wish to make on these proposals within 21 days (Reply by 30 September 2019).
Please reply directly to LandServices.Mailroom@glasgow.gov.uk.
In the meantime, should you require any further information or clarification on any points arising from the proposals, do not hesitate to contact my assistant (name and number removed by GoBike).
Should the Council proceed with these proposals; I will write to you again and confirm this.
Yours faithfully” etc

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

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

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

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

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

These proposals address two issues:

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Council is promoting the above mentioned traffic Regulation Order. Attached is a copy of the draft Order and plans together with a copy of the Notice that is to appear in the edition of the Milngavie and Bearsden Herald which is published on 20 September 2019. Should you wish to comment on the proposal you must do so in writing by Monday, 21 October 2019. Your comments should be sent to Chief Solicitor & Monitoring Officer, Legal Services, 12 Strathkelvin Place, Kirkintilloch, G66 1TJ. Also included is a copy of the maps in relation to the previous Orders which is to amended. The Traffic Regulations Order itself is a large document and the maps represent what is contained in the Order. A full copy of the Order that is to be amended can be provided if requested.
(See attached file: 190910 Draft Order Killermont Ave Area + Notice.pdf) (See attached file: 130205 Bearsden Consolidated Outwith Town Centre.PDF) Regards
Fiona Stirling
Legal Services
12 Strathkelvin Place, Kirkintilloch, G66 1TJ“

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

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

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

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

___________________________________________

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

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. Glasgow, St Enoch District Regeneration Framework Public Consultation, closes 06 September
2. Glasgow, Connecting Woodside, St George’s Road and West Princes Street on-line consultation closes 13 September
3. Consultation on Scotland’s National Transport Strategy, closes 23 October

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. Glasgow, Connecting Woodside, St George’s Road and West Princes Street consultation event 27 August
2. Glasgow, Pollok Country Park – Project Update and Public Consultation Event, 22 August, NOW POSTPONED UNTIL 10 SEPTEMBER

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Glasgow, Avenues preview events for Renfrew, Killermont and North Hanover Streets, 06 August
2. Glasgow, Construction work to start on University Place
3. East Renfrewshire, Aurs Road Upgrade and Realignment Project – Information Session 13 August
4. ScotRail Cycle Forum 15 August
5. New cycling offences: an update from CyclingUK
6. Glasgow City Council (North Kelvin, North Woodside and Woodlands)(Mandatory 20mph Speed Limit Zone) Order 201, GCC response to GoBike submission
7. Glasgow, support for the ban on cars at school gates
8. Glasgow, University Avenue and University Place, Traffic Regulation and Parking Controls Order, GCC response to GoBike objection

Section 1: Current Consultations, in date order for response

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

We are still working on this, which we first advertised in Digest 37, Item 1.7 and we will definitely have our response in the next Digest on Tuesday 03 September, just before the closing date.

1.2 Glasgow, Connecting Woodside, St George’s Road and West Princes Street on-line consultation closes 13 September

In our Consultation Extra on 12 August we gave the details for the two Consultation events, one last week on 15 August and one next Tuesday (see below, item 2.1 for more details). However, there is also on-line consultation so please do complete this: see the details here.

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

We gave this link in Digest 40 and we will be working on the GoBike response straight after the submission for the St Enoch consultation. Do have a look and put your own views in; we need a greater focus on active travel and public transport and the more responses the better.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

2.1 Glasgow, Connecting Woodside, St George’s Road and West Princes Street Consultation Event Tuesday 27 August, 3-7pm

As per our Consultation Extra a week ago the City Council and Sustrans will be at Woodside Library on St George’s Road on Tuesday 27th August, from 3-7pm. Here’s the link to the Connecting Woodside update with the details.

2.2 Glasgow, Pollok Country Park – Project Update and Public Consultation Event, 22 August, NOW POSTPONED UNTIL 10 SEPTEMBER

Despite our reports in the last 2 Digests, we received this message on 06 August, just after Digest 40 was issued that:

“As part of the Transforming Pollok Country Park project, Glasgow City Council and Glasgow Life are developing proposals to improve access to and within Pollok Country Park. Following a period of engagement, emerging proposals are now entering the pre-planning phase and will then form the subject of a planning application later this year.
Please find attached documents relating to the Proposal of Application Notice that was submitted today (6^th August) for access proposals in Pollok Country Park.
As part of the pre-planning process, a consultation event will take place at Pollokshaws Library on the rescheduled date of 10^th September from 12 noon – 8pm which you are welcome to attend and will allow the opportunity for comments.
Kind Regards,
Glasgow City Council/Glasgow Life”

Here are the four documents that are mentioned: Site Plan, the Exhibition Leaflet, the Proposal of Application Notice and the Letter of Invitation to Consultees.

Do try and get along to the event if you can; most of us go to, or through Pollok Park at times and the proposals do appear to be genuinely active travel friendly.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Glasgow, Avenues preview events for Renfrew, Killermont and North Hanover Streets, 06 August

This event, held by Civic Engineers, who are carrying out the design work of this part of the City Deal Avenues project for Glasgow City Council, was well attended with good support for the proposals. The main points raised were:

• The aim is to normalise cycling; the main speaker was keen to say that the avenues are not for speed cycling.
• The amount of tarmac on the 16 core streets of the Avenues programme will be reduced, with swales and rain gardens introduced to absorb rain water – and to improve the environment.
• The project is in line with the aims of the Connectivity Commission, encouraging active travel for all abilities, reducing private car use in the city and encouraging use of public transport.
• The through cycle route along Sauchiehall Street will continue to Cambridge Street, then to Renfrew Street, Killermont Street and North Hanover Street.
• There will be no shared space.
• Discussions are taking place with SPT and bus operators about changing/reducing access to the bus station.
• The overall timescale is tight, but the tender package for Argyle Street (also part of the work being done by Civic Engineers) will be issued by the end of 2019 with work possibly starting as early as next spring.
• Questions asked by the audience included a request for contraflow cycling on connecting streets such as the one-way section of Renfrew Street at the west end, for traffic lights to be phased to give active travel priority and a concern that cars might use Townhead as a rat-run if access to North Hanover Street is reduced.

3.2 Glasgow, Construction work to start on University Place from 12 August

We know that cycling, and widespread consultation, was only an afterthought in a lot of Glasgow University’s planning but here’s some information that one of our members received on 05 August and passed on to us:

“Dear neighbour,
Please note that parking will be removed and barriers erected on University Place from Monday 12 August to allow for infrastructure and landscaping works through the University of Glasgow’s Campus Development Programme.
Construction will be ongoing until early 2021, to create a pedestrian and cycle priority route between Byres Road and University Avenue.
The works will also improve the look and feel of the environment, turning University Place into an accessible and attractive gateway for the new Western campus, including a small number of disabled parking spaces at its western end.
Parking on University Place is currently unrestricted and not covered by the University’s permit scheme.
Residents of University Place and staff requiring access to the underground car parks at the Wolfson Medical and BHF Sir Graeme Davis Buildings, staff of the NHS Pharmacy facility, as well as service and emergency vehicles, will still be able to access University Place.
The street will be open to pedestrians and cyclists during the works, and be one-way for cars, from University Avenue towards Byres Road.
The road will remain open to pedestrians and cyclists during the works. University Place will also be made one-way for cars, from University Avenue towards Byres Road.
Please see the plan for University Place works for more details. 
Construction will start in August with drainage works at the West (Byres Road) end of University Place, working along the road towards University Avenue.
Later in the year, landscaping and resurfacing work will begin from the East (University Avenue) end of the road and work back along towards Byres Road. This work will complete in early 2021 in time for the opening of the Clarice Pears Building, which will house the University’s Institute of Health and Wellbeing. 
Cycle racks, currently located outside the Wolfson Medical Building, will be relocated temporarily the Bower Building. Once complete, the landscaping for University Place will include over 100 cycle parking spaces.
The Next Bike facility will remain in its present location, however a new permanent location will be constructed nearby as part of the improvements.
Read more about the University’s Campus Development Programme
For any feedback please contact campus-development@glasgow.ac.uk”

One bit of good news in the above is that the one-way restriction applies only to cars, so University Place will remain two-way for people walking or cycling.

3.3 East Renfrewshire, Aurs Road Upgrade and Realignment Project – Information Session 13 August

GoBike was invited to this session and one of our members attended. Here is the feedback:

The scheme is being designed by Peter Brett Associates who have been given a wide brief to create not just a realigned road but an active travel route which will in time link into a visitor centre.

1. The scheme is to realign Aurs Road from Springhill Rd to Stewarton Rd. Major bends will be removed and speed limits will be reduced from the current 60mph to 30 mph & 40 mph depending on location
2. As yet not all funding is in place but there is expectation that funds will be located (e.g. from Sustrans) allowing the complete project as envisaged to be completed.
3. It is planned that this is part of a larger overall redevelopment and to fit in with new housing north of the railway line and a visitor centre. There will also be a new 100place car park south of the Balgray Reservoir to allow folk access to the area.
4. There is also talk of a new railway station, Barrhead South, north of Balgray Reservoir, to serve the new housing, but the likelihood/timetabling are very unclear.
5. The essence of the plan is to take the bends out of the road, reduce the speed limit to 30/40mph and provide lighting. If they did nothing else the cycling environment would be greatly improved, particularly in winter. They also plan a cycleway and footway to the west of the existing road. For most of the length these will be segregated and in the case of the cycleway up to 3m in width. In some areas, in particular near the area of the proposed car park, limitations of space mean that shared space is inevitable. Space over much of the length is certainly a problem and to get the cycleway built means building a boardwalk over the edge of the reservoir itself. All very ambitious. Note that the cycleway will be lit.

We have some concerns, particularly about the start and end points and will be following them up.
Note that planning permission has not yet been sought. Once this has happened the plans will go on line.
The hope is to tender in the next 2-3 months with works starting in April 2020. The road will be closed in its entirety and the works will take (at least?) a year to complete.
The presentation given at the event is here.

3.4 ScotRail Cycle Forum 15 August

ScotRail hold their Cycle Forum two or three times per year and GoBike was represented at the most recent, held in Glasgow on 15 August. The main points of interest were:

• From May 2020 dedicated cycle carriages will be added to the formation of trains where there is mandatory booking, starting with Glasgow to Oban, followed by Glasgow to Fort William and Mallaig and then the Far North Lines.
• ScotRail have a Cycle Fund which awards match funding to such projects as improving cycle access to railway stations. GoBike is hoping to meet with ScotRail and Sustrans, and eventually the City Council, to explore improving links to stations in Glasgow.
• ScotRail is to review its policy on the carriage of electric bikes, which are currently officially banned on all UK trains because of concern about the batteries! It was suggested at the meeting that owners are probably unaware of this policy and load them onto trains anyway.
• ScotRail is reviewing its cycle hire scheme in light of usage and other schemes in operation.
• There is ongoing concern about the carriage of bikes on HSTs to intermediate stations that are unstaffed.
• Generally the carriage of bikes works well.

3.5 New cycling offences: an update from Cycling UK

Last September, in Digest 17, Item 1.8 we informed you of “Open Consultation from the UK Government, Department of Transport, New Cycling Offences, Causing Death or Serious Injury while Cycling”. Cycling UK were quick off the mark to submit opposition to the proposals and GoBike supported the move, calling for a complete overhaul of road traffic offences.
Many of us who are individual members of Cycling UK added our voice and the following update was received on 07 August:

“Last autumn, the Government launched a consultation on new cycling offences.
You were one of over 13,000 people who supported Cycling UK and called on Government to stop tinkering around the edges and, instead, to launch the wholescale review of road traffic offences first promised in 2014.
Ten months on, we’ve finally had some news.
Last month’s Road Safety Statement listed 74 upcoming actions to improve road safety and, interestingly, plans to introduce new cycling offences were not included. Instead there was an acknowledgement that this is “a complex area” and that the Government is “considering bringing forward legislation to deal with this”.
Although this may seem insignificant, and we wouldn’t suggest reading too much into it, it’s a shift in position from the infamous announcement from the Conservative twitter account last year announcing that they were “cracking down on dangerous cyclists”.
So, let’s just say we’re more optimistic than we were this time last year – and that’s thanks to you, and 13,000 others, taking the time to write to the Government and your MP.
With Parliament on summer recess, and a new Transport Minister recently appointed, we’ll be sure to keep you updated as things develop over the coming months.
In the meantime, the urgent issue for cycling is the upcoming Government spending review: cycling needs more investment to ensure it’s safer and more widely accessible.
Please support our campaign for cycling funding by writing to Chris Heaton-Harris, the new Minister responsible for cycling.  
Duncan Dollimore
Head of Campaigns
Cycling UK“

Those of us fortunate enough to live in Scotland do not have a new Transport Minister, so if you do wish to ask the Scottish Government for more cycle funding do please contact Michael Matheson, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity.

3.6 Glasgow City Council (North Kelvin, North Woodside and Woodlands)(Mandatory 20mph Speed Limit Zone) Order 201

GoBike support for this move, with the concern about the city’s patchwork approach to implementing 20mph across the city, was given in Digest 39, Item 1.5 and here’s the response we received on 08 August.
There’s a lot of detail about how the zone will be applied but still no recognition of the speeding that clearly occurs on streets that are already 20mph, eg the Broomielaw and the High Street.

“THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (NORTH KELVIN, NORTH WOODSIDE AND WOODLANDS), (MANDATORY 20MPH SPEED LIMIT ZONE) ORDER 201_
Thank you for your correspondence regarding the above named Traffic Regulation Order, your comments have been noted.
I can advise that the funding has been made available through Sustrans’ Places for Everyone programme funded by Transport Scotland as part of the Connecting Woodside project to introduce mandatory 20mph speed limit zones within the residential areas.
The 20mph speed limit zones will be signposted according to the TSRGD 2016 and there will be triangular lamp-post wraps prior to the 20mph speed enforcement coming into effect to notify the public of the new speed limits in the area.
I refer to the extremely positive change in regulations outlined in the recent Transport Scotland document titled the ‘Good Practice Guide on 20mph Speed Restrictions’.  Whilst this guidance allows certain areas to be considered without physical traffic calming measures, unfortunately the council are unable to make the full council boundary a mandatory 20mph speed limit zone at this time.  This would require substantial funds given the sheer volume of work that would require to be undertaken such as speed surveys, material costs and physical traffic calming measures required throughout the council boundary, particularly on existing roads with existing speed limits of 40mph and above. 
The Police are included in the consultation process when a 20mph zone is being introduced.  However, following Transport Scotland guidance and by introducing traffic calming measures where speeds are above 24mph, it is intended that the zones are mainly self-enforcing.  Indeed, during discussions with Police Scotland Officers, they have indicated that they support the Council’s traffic calming policy.  The Council has no direct input into where and when the police carry out enforcement. 
Your support will be considered and included within the final report which will inform the decision. Once a decision has been taken in regards to these proposals I shall write to you again and advise of the outcome.
Yours sincerely
Steven Gray
Assistant Group Manager (Sustainable Transport)
Neighbourhoods and Sustainability“

3.7 Glasgow, support for the ban on cars at school gates

In Digest 34, Item 1.3, we published the proposals for banning cars from accessing close to the gates of six primary schools in the city. This has now achieved the support of Evening Times readers, see: https://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/news/17832845.car-ban-glasgow-primary-schools-city-backing/?ref=ebln
Let’s hope now that the practice is spread to all schools across the city and beyond.

3.8 Glasgow, University Avenue and University Place, Traffic Regulation and Parking Controls Order, GCC response to GoBike objection

Many of you will remember the demonstration we had in February to demonstrate that painted cycle lanes offer no protection to people trying to cycle over the hill that is University Avenue and we submitted this letter of objection in June to the City Council.

We received this response on 13 August:

“MESSAGE SENT ON BEHALF OF ANDY WADDELL, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND SUSTAINABILITY
Dear Ms Fort
THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (UNIVERSITY AVENUE AND UNIVERSITY PLACE), (TRAFFIC REGULATION AND PARKING CONTROLS) ORDER 201_

Thank you for your correspondence regarding the above named Traffic Regulation Order.
With regards to your concerns:
The University of Glasgow’s proposals for University Avenue and University Place were developed in consultation with Council officers and following consideration of all options available, including the incorporation of segregated cycle lanes in University Avenue and the introduction of bus gates at either end of the Avenue.

Options investigated the requirements for pedestrians, cyclists, public transport provision, University and local access issues and wider traffic management issues in line with the established hierarchy.

The resultant proposal significantly improves pedestrian passage both along and across University Avenue and has removed all existing parking. However, it was necessary to accommodate public transport routes in both directions as well as larger bus stops at the University. The two way traffic corridor will also accommodate emergency service vehicles and local service access. To mitigate other traffic access, a supporting Traffic Regulation Order will reduce the speed limit to 20mph. More severe traffic restrictions e.g. bus gates, were found to have a detrimental impact on adjacent streets such as Byres Road and were therefore discounted.

Unfortunately, due to land availability, local topography and a number of listed structures, it was not practicable to accommodate fully segregated cycle lanes in both directions. This is demonstrated in your own proposals which resulted in a single 3m one-way traffic lane and would not be supported by the Council, and would be likely to raise objections from other stakeholders including emergency services and bus operators. When considering the 20mph speed limit, the need to accommodate bus stops for large numbers of passengers and the sharp gradients, up to 8%, and campus cycle access available at either end of University Avenue, it was concluded that the mandatory cycle lanes would be provided only on the uphill sections.

The University has also taken a number of steps to improve the local campus environment for pedestrians and cyclists. The campus will be opened up with a number of signed routes, routes will remain accessible after hours. Car parking on the campus will be significantly reduced and other vehicle access controlled. Public realm including cycle storage facilities will be improved.

Addressing your specific observations:

1. The painted cycle lanes are dangerous.

Painted lines are a recognised means of cycle lane provision. It is noted that they are not ideal but they are the best that can be practicably achieved in this particular location. The university will investigate the practicability of introducing forms of light segregation, however there are concerns that this in turn may introduce a trip hazard.

2. The design of the painted cycle lanes within the TRO makes cycling even more dangerous.

Bus stops are located on either side of the crossing at the junction with Hillhead Street and, as there was insufficient road width to provide lay-bys, without the loss of pedestrian space, this made any opportunity to provide cycle lanes over the entire length of University Avenue impracticable.

The designers were required to work within the bounds of the existing public road limits. Unfortunately, as noted above, segregated cycle routes cannot physically be accommodated in both directions. Due to the grades it was determined that segregated cycle lanes on the downhill sections would be a greater risk due to the lack of width and proximity of pedestrians on narrower footways.

3. Painted cycle lanes on University Avenue do not prevent waiting, loading or parking.

The formalisation of the cycle lane means that if a vehicle crosses over the solid white cycle lane for any reason – for example, to drop off a passenger – they are in contravention of the Highway Code and this would be a police enforcement matter.

Practically, a vehicle stopping for any reason would block the carriageway and would be likely to be moved on by other road users. Equally a segregated lane would not completely deter dropping off activities.

4. The plans are in contravention of the Transport Hierarchy.

The plans are in accordance with the Transport Hierarchy as they prioritise pedestrian safety above all others by widening the footways and improving crossing facilities. It is necessary to maintain the route for two-way public transport, and private vehicle use has been affected with the removal of all parking spaces on University Avenue as well as the reduction to a 20MPH speed limit zone. Whilst full segregation has not been provided, the reduced speed limit and removal of vehicle parking spaces will benefit cycling. These measures are consistent with Cycling by Design.

Cycling by Design (2010) Hierarchy of Measures, “It should be recognised that measures are more easily accepted and implemented if they directly benefit the wider community, not simply existing cyclists. Strategies that emphasise safety in terms of motorised traffic restraint and speed reduction while promoting health and sustainability will aid the development of cycling.”

5. The plans fail to recognise Climate Change Emergency status.

University Avenue has to maintain accessible for public transport in both directions. Modelling was carried out on potentially making University Avenue a bus only route; this was not feasible due to the level of disruption that would be created on Byres Road, Great Western Road and Dumbarton Road, and the associated side streets in the area. Similarly, a one-way street would not be possible either.

6. The plans fail to recognise recommendations made within the Connectivity Commission Report.

Policies can only be applied within the context of the local situation and if delivery is reasonably practicable in terms of issues such as physical aspects, user priorities, essential requirements and wider cost implications. Where you are seeking to adapt an existing streetscape it is not always possible to accommodate all aspirations in one situation. In the case of University Avenue, the reasons why it was not feasible to reallocate road space in strict accordance with the user hierarchy -which would see a larger portion of the road being dedicated to cyclists – are derived from the presence of physical constraints (level change, gradient and pinch point) which, if a segregated route was to be introduced, would compromise the safety of the most vulnerable road users i.e. pedestrians.

8. Double yellow lines with kerb marked lines are not legally compatible with mandatory cycle lanes.

The double yellow line marking restrictions apply from the heel of the footway to the centre of the carriageway. As previously mentioned, the solid white line marked cycle lanes are the boundary in which a vehicle cannot cross over. A vehicle is still within their right to drop off a passenger without crossing over the white solid line marked cycle lane. Any form of waiting beyond the reasonable amount of time for a passenger to board or alight is a traffic offence.

Glasgow City Council do not have a policy on the use of red line markings; there is potential for future implementation around the city with red line markings, however, the policy would have to be created to allow for this.

9. The TRO drawing is inconsistent with other approved planning drawings.

Whilst the omission of the drop off lay-by on the TRO drawing is noted it does not affect the actual restriction. The lay-by is for drop off only and parking would be an offence as it would on the rest of the carriageway.

10. Lack of public support.

The TRO process allows the public to formally object to the proposals and I can advise that the Council received 26 formal objections to the TRO. Several of these objections were supportive of the 20 mph speed limit.

Considering that staff and students of the university alone amount to almost 40,000 people, a figure increased significantly when considering local residents and businesses in the Hillhead / Byres Road area, the level of objection is relatively low in terms of other TRO consultations.

Having considered the above, should you wish to withdraw your objection I would be pleased if you would inform me by 3^rd September 2019 by writing to Andy Waddell, Director of Operations, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability, House, Glasgow City Council, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX or by e-mail to land@glasgow.gov.uk

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” etc

Needless to say we are not favourably impressed, we will not withdraw our objection on the strength of this response and might even reply to the City Council.

Sorry to end on a low note but there is some good news above and let’s hope we get some more before the next Digest is due out at the start of September.

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

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

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

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

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

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

Section 1: Current Consultations , in date order for responses

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

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

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

Showcase event: Tuesday 23^rd July 2019

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

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

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

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

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

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

A further email informed of an ongoing survey:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dear Sir or Madam,

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (MOUNT FLORIDA) (TRAFFIC REGULATION) ORDER 201_
The Council propose to consider the introduction of the above named Traffic Regulation Order.
Please find enclosed a copy of the press notice of the proposed Order, relevant map, statement of reasons and detailed report.
Details of the proposals will also be available on the Glasgow City Council website at www.glasgow.gov.uk/proposedtro . 
As stated in the attached documentation, any person wishing to object to the proposed Order should send details of the grounds for objection in writing to Andy Waddell, Director of Operations, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability, Exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX or by e-mail to land@glasgow.gov.uk  by Friday 2 August 2019.
Yours faithfully” etc

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yes No Maybe

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

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

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

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

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

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

The update is as follows:

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

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

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

If you have any queries please get in touch.

Kind Regards,
Project Officer, Glasgow Life”

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

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 SPT and East Dunbartonshire, Lenzie Station Improvements

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3.3 Glasgow Airport Investment Area (GAIA) Construction Update

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


Here’s the main news from the link:

“Construction includes significant improved connections:

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

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

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

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. Glasgow, Garscube Road, parking and loading restrictions to allow construction of 2-way cycle lane, closes 12 July
2. **NEW** University of Glasgow, IHW planning application, closes 12 July
3. Glasgow, Future Policy Development of Taxi and Private Hire Car Licensing, closes 29 July
4. Glasgow (North Kelvin, North Woodside and Woodlands)(Mandatory 20mph Speed Limit Zone) Order, closes 02 August
5. **NEW** Glasgow South City Way Traffic Management Order, 2-way cycle lane on Bridgegate and King Street, closes 09 August
6. Glasgow, St Enoch District Regeneration Framework Public Consultation, closes 06 September

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. Glasgow, Queen Margaret Drive, separated cycle lane, Traffic Regulation Order
2. Glasgow, Battlefield Street Design, Showcase Event, 23 July
3. Safer Streets Pollokshields
4. North Kelvin/Woodside potential Controlled Parking Zone
5. Dennistoun & Royston – Traffic Management & Parking Controls Order 201 drop-in events 24, 25 and 27 July

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Glasgow, Broomfield Road, GoBike submission
2. Glasgow, Ladyloan Avenue, GoBike submission
3. Glasgow, Laurieston Phase 2, 20mph, GCC response No 2
4. Glasgow, Laurieston, Phase 2, Parking Controls, GCC response
5. Scotland, Default 20mph Bill, Scottish Government response
6. Glasgow, Denmark Street, No Waiting and Loading at Any Time, GCC response, with good news about the employment of more Parking Attendants
7. Glasgow, Sunnybank Street, Traffic Calming, GCC response

Section 1: Current Consultations, in date order for response

1.1 Glasgow, Garscube Road, parking and loading restrictions to allow construction of 2-way cycle lane, closes 12 July

All the information pertaining to the proposals for a two-way cycle lane on the east side of Garscube Road were published in Digest 36, Item 1.4 and we have now submitted this letter in response. The supportive and constructive comments were written by Calum. Iain provided the graphic for the type of side-street junction we would like to see at Sawmillfield Street.

There’s still time to get your comments in!

1.2 **NEW** University of Glasgow Institute of Health and Wellbeing. Planning application Ref 19/01636/MSC, closes 12 July

The University is progressing its development and the Institute of Health and Wellbeing is now being planned for the Institute of Health and Wellbeing on University Place, near to the junction with Byres Road, as shown on this plan. Having looked at the information available, see: https://publicaccess.glasgow.gov.uk/online-applications/simpleSearchResults.do?action=firstPage GoBike is submitting this letter of objection in based on their lip service to planning for active travel. The application mentions core paths nearby for cycling access, but conveniently ignores the fact that the University has been, to date, adamant that cycle lanes can not be accommodated on University Avenue to allow access to the site.

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

All the details of this consultation were in Digest 36, Item 1.5 and our considered response will be in the next Digest.

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

Digest 37, Item 1.6 gave all the information for this next bit of Glasgow’s 20mph patchwork. Our response will be in the next Digest. Meanwhile, the Evening Times reported on 01 July that Glasgow City Council is still keen to see a city wide move to 20mph.
According to the article there are currently 80 mandatory 20mph zones in the city – that’s a lot of signage.

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

Good news, the South City Way is approaching the Merchant City and we received this email from the City Council on 26 June:

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

Dear Sir or Madam,

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (CITY CENTRE) (TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT) ORDER 2010, (VARIATION No25) (SOUTH CITY WAY) ORDER 201_

The Council propose to consider the introduction of the above named Traffic Regulation Order.
Please find enclosed a copy of the press notice of the proposed Order, relevant map, statement of reasons and detailed report.
Details of the proposals will also be available on the Glasgow City Council website at www.glasgow.gov.uk/proposedtro . 

As stated in the attached documentation, any person wishing to object to the proposed Order should send details of the grounds for objection in writing to Group Manager, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability, Exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX or email land@glasgow.gov.uk and it must be received by Friday, 09 August 2019.

Yours faithfully” etc

Here are the documents: Press Notice, Plan, Statement of Reasons and Detailed Report.

We’ll be looking at this and, based on our experience elsewhere in the city, developing our response in good time for the closing date.

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

All the information we have was in Digest 37, Item 1.7 and as we said two weeks ago, our response will be developed when our main scrutineer of such high-level publications returns from holiday later this month. The very fact it’s high level means that detailed policy will be determined from it, so it’s crucial that we comment critically and constructively.
You might remember that the Broomielaw District Regeneration Framework; to which we responded at the beginning of April – details were in Digest 32, Item 3.1 and our response is here, – waxed lyrical about removing most of the traffic from the Broomielaw and transforming the area under the Kingston Bridge. Yes, this is the type of transformation that we are looking for and that the city needs if it’s to meet its aspirations, but we know the opposition will be intense.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

2.1 Glasgow, Queen Margaret Drive, separated cycle lane, Traffic Regulation Order

The local traders on Queen Margaret Drive, which goes north from the junction of Byres Road and Great Western Road, as far as Maryhill Road, want to improve the environment outside their shops. They worked with the City Council and with Sustrans to develop proposals for a two-way cycle lane on the west side and there has been local consultation on this.
However, things have changed: we have had the Byres Road consultations with no decisive outcome and a new school is being built just north of Kelvinside Avenue, so both these things are being considered in relation to the Queen Margaret Drive proposals. Pleasingly though, we have now been told by the City Council that the Traffic Regulation Order will be issued within the next few weeks. Our breath is bated!

2.2 Glasgow, Battlefield Street Design, Showcase Event, 23 July

Sustrans have informed us of this event; here’s the email that was received on 03 July:

“I’m emailing you with an exciting update from Battlefield Street Design with the details of our showcase event on the 23^rd July and a focus group opportunity.

Thank you to everyone who has got involved in the Battlefield Street Design project and left your feedback for the initial design ideas. You can still view these designs and comments through our project website. Over the last few months we engaged with over 2,800 people through various events, activities and meetings. This feedback following the last nine months of engagement has helped refine the concept design which will be showcased at our upcoming public event on the 23^rd July (details below).

Showcase event: Tuesday 23^rd July 2019

On Tuesday 23 July, at Langside Parish Church in Glasgow, the public are invited to have the opportunity to

• Drop-in anytime between 4pm and 7pm to view the updated concept design for the following areas; Battlefield Road, Mount Florida corner, Battlefield Rest junction, Grange Road and Langside Road.
• Find out about activities in the area from Give a Dog a Bone, Urban Croft South Seeds, Battlefield Community Project, Langside Heritage Group and many more;
• Come and say hello to us outside Coffeescene between 3pm and 6pm where we’ll have a summary of the designs and some Sustrans freebies to give away“

Do get along if you can and contribute to making the area more active-travel-friendly. Here’s a link to the 23 July event with a bit more news: https://battlefieldproposals.commonplace.is/news/2019/07/03/battlefield-street-design-showcase-event:-23-july

2.3 Safer Streets Pollokshields

Further to the drop-in event on 17 June, we have now heard from Bill Fraser, chair of the Pollokshields Trust. The Baseline Study is now at draft stage and once it’s finalised it will be opened to community engagement. If you are interested keep your eyes peeled for further updates.

2.4 North Kelvin/Woodside potential Controlled Parking Zone

We have heard from GoBike member, Alasdair, who is on the local Community Council who tells us that there was a well-attended Community Council meeting earlier this month when the possibility of a Controlled Parking Zone in this area was discussed. Currently there is commuter parking in the area. The City Council will now consult with the Police etc as they draw up plans with a view to issuing a Traffic Regulation Order at some future date.

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

GoBike member Derek has told us about a forthcoming Traffic Management and Parking Controls Order for Dennistoun & Royston
Public exhibitions are to take place:
Wed 24 July, 2-7pm – Royston Library
Thu 25 July, 2-7pm – Dennistoun Library
Sat 27 July, 10am-1pm – Dennistoun Library
Dennistoun Community Council has been asking the City Council for some time to bring in such an order to stop commuters using area like a park and ride.
There will be charges for parking that might not go down well with some of the residents but if it reduces car parking overall then it could help moves towards providing separated cycle lanes on Duke Street and/or Alexandra Parade!

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Glasgow, Broomfield Road, GoBike submission

Details of the proposals for traffic calming using speed cushions on Broomfield Road, in the north-east of the city, was detailed in Digest 37, Item 1.2 and we submitted our response last week, prior to the 05 July closing date.
While we accept that speed cushions do slow down traffic, we consider that roads such as this. near parks and schools, particularly in an area of low car ownership, in a city of low car ownership. should be made more active-travel friendly. Our response gives our reasons.

3.2 Glasgow, Ladyloan Avenue, GoBike submission

Carrying on the theme of slowing motor traffic down with speed cushions came this proposal to improve safety near St Clare’s Primary School in Drumchapel. Other schools in the city are about to start a trial of closed approach roads at start and finish times, but St Clare’s gets speed cushions. We suggest a more active travel solution ….. and this is our letter of response.

3.3 Glasgow, Laurieston Phase 2, 20mph, GCC response No 2

Soon after submitting our support (admittedly with concern about the localised nature of yet another 20mph zone in the city) we received an initial response from the City Council, which was published in Digest 36, Item 3.2. This explained why the City Council feels it can’t go for a city-wide zone (this view, might of course change with the demise of Mark Ruskell’s bill) but now we have received, on 28 June, this formal response:

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

Dear Ms Fort

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (Laurieston Phase 2), (20mph Speed Limit) Order 2019

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

The Order was made on 24 June 2019 and an advert was placed in the Evening Times on 26 June 2019 stating that the Traffic Regulation Order has been made.
Should you require any further information on the above named Order please contact my assistant (name and phone no removed by GoBike).

Yours sincerely” etc

We have yet to see major opposition to these localised 20mph proposals, so why the concern when it comes to larger areas? Could it be a case of driving slowly near home but putting the foot down elsewhere?

3.4 Glasgow, Laurieston, Phase 2, Parking Controls, GCC response

To inhibit the sort of parking shown here, GoBike supported the proposals for waiting and loading restrictions in Laurieston Phase 2, where building is currently ongoing. Details were given in Digest 34, Item 1.7 and our response was given in Digest 35, Item 1.6

We have now, 28 June, received this response from the City Council:

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

Dear Ms Fort

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (Laurieston Phase 2), (Traffic Regulation) Order 2019

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

The Order was made on 24 June 2019 and an advert will be placed in the Evening Times on 26 June 2019 stating that the Traffic Regulation Order has been made.
Should you require any further information on the above named Order please contact my assistant (name and phone no removed by GoBike).

Yours sincerely” etc

No details of the monitoring and compliance regime, so let’s hope for the best ….

3.5 Scotland, Default 20mph Bill, Scottish Government response

Many of us, I think, wrote to our MSPs to urge them to support the Restricted Roads (20mph) Bill that recently failed to get approval in the Scottish Parliament. Here’s a reply sent by Transport Scotland, on 27 June, in response to a plea direct to the Transport MInister, Michael Matheson, to support the bill:

“Roads Directorate
Victoria Quay, Edinburgh, EH6 6QQ

Thank you for your email of 8 June to Michael Matheson, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure & Connectivity, regarding the 20 mph Restricted Roads (20 mph Speed Limits)(Scotland) Bill. As I have responsibility for road safety policy the First Minister has asked that your letter be passed to me for reply.
The Scottish Government is committed to achieving our shared desired outcomes of a more active and healthier nation, with ultimate visions for Scotland to have the cleanest air in Europe and no fatalities on roads.
We are also committed to the long-term vision for active travel in Scotland where communities are shaped around people, with walking and cycling the most popular choice for shorter everyday journeys. We know that the perception of urban roads as unsafe is a barrier against these everyday journeys and the reduction of traffic speed can be a positive step in making our towns and cities safer places, where people are confident to walk and cycle more often.

As you may be aware the 20 mph Restricted Roads (20 mph Speed Limits)(Scotland) Bill fell at Stage 1 of the Scottish Parliamentary legislative process on 13 June 2019, with 83 members of the Scottish Parliament opposing the bill, 26 voting in favour and 4 abstaining. You can find the Official Report of the debate here:
http://www.parliament.scot/parliamentarybusiness/report.aspx?r=12183
During the debate, the Cabinet Secretary set out why the Scottish Government recommended that Parliament not agree to the general principles of the Bill. This rationale is provided below:

“This Bill brings two different issues which we need to ensure are not conflated:
The first is whether 20 mph limits are beneficial; and the Government is very clear that we support 20 mph speed limits implemented in the right environment because they have real potential to encourage more active travel and increase people’s perceptions of ‘feeling safe’.
The second is whether the blanket approach is the best way of achieving these desired benefits.

I am of the view that further consideration needs to be given to the process, impact and consequences of a nationwide default 20 mph limit including an assessment of Scotland’s road network before we can be sure that the proposed Bill will achieve its aim.
We need to ensure that there are no unintended consequences from the Bill such as whether reducing speed limits on restricted roads where a 20 mph limit could have detrimental effects or whether not reducing the limit on non-restricted roads, where a 20 mph limit would be desirable, inhibits consistency across Scotland.
We know that many drivers assess the speed limit not just by reading road signs but by using other road features such as the width of the carriageway, road markings, traffic level, and location to schools etc.
In order to achieve the benefits that 20 mph speed limits bring, particularly on road safety, we need to ensure their compliance. Police Scotland advise that speed limits should be effectively self-enforcing and seen to be appropriate by a significant majority of motorists.
By implementing speed limits which are appropriate to the road design and conditions, rather than applying a blanket 20 mph signs-only speed limit , it ensures that other speed limits are not brought into disrepute.
Both the Government and CoSLA have always recognised the ambition of this Bill and
understand the rationale. However, the practical challenges and financial implications of a one size-fits-all approach are significant. Both remain supportive of creating safer roads for all road users, but this must be achieved through identifying alternative, more flexible ways of widening the implementation of 20 mph zones and speed limits in Scotland.
Therefore we are committed to continuing to work with CoSLA and with our partners such as the Society of Chief Officers of Transportation in Scotland, taking time to reflect on what the Bill was trying to achieve by helping to identify more straightforward, efficient and effective procedures for Local Authorities in order to encourage wider use of 20 mph speed limits.
One example of work being undertaken is a review of the current Traffic Regulation Order process which will determine whether this does create a barrier to the implementation of 20 mph speed limits.
We have sought the views of local authorities on the TRO process and provided an opportunity for them to detail their concerns and consider whether the process could be streamlined. Once the analysis is complete, we will share the results with stakeholders and outline what options may be available for consideration.
These solutions will be found through collaborative working and any new proposal will need joint political agreement between CoSLA and Scottish Government. I consider that the blanket ‘sign only’ approach proposed within this Bill, without the identification of the roads which will be affected, will not achieve its aims. The road assessment is required in order to examine whether the current speed profile and road design would mind themselves to sign only 20 mph speed limits and will achieve the benefits that we would all wish to see”.
We have a commitment in Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2020 to encourage the implementation of 20 mph speed limits and have clear guidance for local authorities to support them in making decisions. We have also seen many local authorities taking those decisions in accordance with our guidance including Edinburgh and Fife.
And, as mentioned previously, we are also actively working with local authorities to identify actions which can be taken to ensure that more 20 mph speed limits are implemented in the right environments.
I hope you find this information helpful.
Kindest regards

Road Safety Policy Officer
www.transport.gov.scot”

So there we have it, a lot of words, from people who probably want a a 20mph limit outside their house and their local school, but let’s look forward to better things ..

3.6 Glasgow, Denmark Street, No Waiting and Loading at Any Time, GCC response, with good news about the employment of more Parking Attendants

In Digest 36, Item 1.2 we informed you of the proposals to prohibit obstructive parking on Denmark Street in the north of the city. We submitted an email response in the evening of the closing date, which was, fortunately, accepted and we now have this response, dated 05 July from the City Council:

“Thank you for your response to the above named traffic regulation order.
In order to address your points, I have numbered them accordingly:

1.  I can advise that City Parking, who are responsible for the employment of parking attendants, have recently employed 20 new parking attendants.  This will help with the enforcement of all existing and proposed restrictions within the Glasgow area.

2.  Your comments have been noted and passed to the Council’s Cycling Infrastructure department, however, this Order has been promoted in order to prevent the indiscriminate and obstructive parking practices which are occurring in Denmark Street, north of Hawthorn Street.  The Council have received complaints from local businesses at this location as larger vehicles find it difficult to access a number of premises as a result of the existing parking practices hence why this Order has focused on eradicating this issue.”

Here, as a reminder, is our response, sent on 18 June:

“Many thanks for the opportunity to comment on the proposals below. GoBike is ambivalent about this proposal but we do have the following questions:

1. Have the resources been identified to ensure that the restrictions are complied with? So often we respond to similar consultations and the standard response is that it is the responsibility of Police Scotland, or perhaps in this case, traffic/parking wardens to ensure compliance. Yet we are not aware of any increase in the budget of these bodies to ensure compliance and all around the city we see evidence of non-compliance with parking regulations, speed limits etc.

2. Why hasn’t a more imaginative scheme been developed? This is an area of lower than average car ownership in a city with relatively low car ownership, yet we see no evidence that active travel is being encouraged. Denmark Street is wide, there are amenities along it such as a community centre, yet there is no safe cycle route. The construction of cycle lanes would reduce the space available for the storage of motor vehicles and encourage the local populace to improve their health by becoming more active. The City Council should exploit all available opportunities to improve active travel in this city, rather than having specific cycle schemes.

We look forward to better things.”

Thus we have 2 items of good news here! The first is that more Parking Attendants are to be employed and the second is that we have sections of the Neighbourhoods and Sustainability Group within the City Council communicating with each other, and not only that, but telling us that they do.

3.7 Glasgow, Sunnybank Street, Traffic Calming, GCC response

On 20 June GoBike submitted this letter to Glasgow City Council about the proposals for Sunnybank Street – the initial information was in Digest 36, Item 1.3 and yesterday, just as this Digest should have been coming out to you, this response arrived:

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

Dear Ms Fort

Thank you for your undernoted email regarding the traffic calming proposals for Sunnybank Street.
I can advise that the Primary School has already received planning consent and as such there are no proposals to include any new cycle routes or lanes into the design at this late stage.
I can advise that the School Car Free Zones is a pilot project which will run 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 and the new school on Sunnybank Street will be considered for inclusion.
Regarding the design of the speed cushions, I can advise that as per the drawing sent out alongside the consultation e-mail, there is a 1.2m gap from the kerb at either side for the safe passage of cyclists, as well as a gap of 1.1m in between the cushions themselves which both provide plenty of space for the safe passage of cyclists.

A recent speed survey found the 85^th percentile speed of vehicles on Sunnybank Street to be 28mph. It is anticipated that the introduction of the proposed Traffic Calming on Sunnybank Street will see the average speed of vehicles decrease further, which will in turn lead to better road safety conditions for all road users including, pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.
With regard to your concerns over the timescale for responses to our notification of the proposals, I can advise that the 21 day period for response was to begin from the date the email was sent. However, I will note your comments and ensure that the response period is more clearly stated in any future correspondence. Responses were also intended to be returned to the sender, LandServices.Mailroom@glasgow.gov.uk

Finally, I apologize for you not receiving a response to your email of 13^th June regarding the bus gate and can advise that whilst Sunnybank Street was previously intended for inclusion as part of a bus route, SPT never took up the option of providing a bus service on this route. Furthermore, a Traffic Regulation Order was never promoted to allow enforcement of this bus gate by Police Scotland. As part of the associated works to install traffic calming measures it is intended that the bus gate markings and signs on Sunnybank Street between Springfield Road and Garvald Street will be removed.
I trust the above information is of assistance, however, should you require any further information please contact (details removed by GoBike)”

While much of this reply was informative, one section was a wee bit perplexing – had a mistake been made in our letter about the position of the speed cushions? A check confirmed, phew, that our letter did not mention the spacing of the speed cushions, and this reply has been sent in for the attention of Michael Brady:

“Hello,
Many thanks for the comprehensive reply, which is very much appreciated.

Just one point: on this scheme the drawing clearly shows a 1.2m gap between the footway and the speed cushion. It is on your other schemes, Ladyloan Avenue and Broomfield Road, where the gap is shown as just 1m and I have commented on the narrow gap on both those proposals, but not on the scheme for Sunnybank Street. I attach a further copy of the GoBike letter of 20 June for clarification.

Best wishes,
Tricia Fort
for Consultations GoBike, Strathclyde Cycle Campaign, www.gobike.org”

It’s a bonus that we are getting detailed responses – long may this continue. This reply also shows why Community Councils are so important. Community Councils are able to respond to Planning Applications, while residents, unless in the immediate neighbourhood, are unable to comment. So we missed the boat on this one.

Your next Digest will be with you in 2 weeks, so stay safe on your bike until then – and beyond.

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

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

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

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

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

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

Section 1: Current Consultations, in date order for responses

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dear Sir / Madam,
THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (DENMARK STREET), (TRAFFIC REGULATION) ORDER 201_
The Council propose to consider the introduction of the above named Traffic Regulation Order.
Please find enclosed a copy of the press notice of the proposed Order, relevant map, statement of reasons and detailed report.
Details of the proposals will also be available on the Glasgow City Council website at www.glasgow.gov.uk/proposedtro . 
As stated in the attached documentation, any person wishing to object to the proposed Order should send details of the grounds for objection in writing to Andy Waddell, Director of Operations, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability, Exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX or by e-mail to land@glasgow.gov.uk  by Tuesday 18 June 2019.
Yours faithfully “
etc.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dear Sir / Madam

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

The Council propose to consider the introduction of the above named Traffic Calming Scheme and I wish to establish the views of your organisation.
Background to the proposed Scheme
The scheme is aimed at improving road safety by reducing vehicle speeds, especially around the area of the new primary school.

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

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

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

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

In the meantime, should you require any further information or clarification on any points arising from the proposals, do not hesitate to contact my assistant Jordan Tracey on 0141 287 9173.
Should the Council proceed with these proposals; I will write to you again and confirm this.
Yours faithfully”
etc

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dear Sir / Madam

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

The Council propose to consider the introduction of the above named Traffic Regulation Order.
Please find enclosed a copy of the press notice of the proposed Order, relevant map, statement of reasons and detailed report.
Details of the proposals will also be available on the Glasgow City Council website at www.glasgow.gov.uk/proposedtro.

As stated in the attached documentation, any person wishing to object to the proposed Order should send details of the ground for their objection in writing to Group Manager, Sustainable Transport, Exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX or by email to land@glasgow.gov.uk by Friday, 12 July 2019.
Yours faithfully”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

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

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

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

3.2 Laurieston Phase 2 20mph Speed Limit Order 201_

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

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

Dear Miss Fort,

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

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

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

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

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

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

We have now, 11 June, received this reply:

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

Dear Ms Fort

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

I refer to your support of the above named Traffic Regulation Order on behalf of Go Bike and can advise that your support was reported and considered. The Council have decided under its scheme of delegated functions to proceed with the proposal as advertised.
The Order was made on the 3rd June 2019 and an advert was placed in the Evening Times on 6th June 2019 stating that the Traffic Regulation Order has been made.

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

Yours sincerely“
etc

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

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

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

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

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

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

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

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

Section 1: Current Consultations, in date order for response

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

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

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

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

1.3 Glasgow Climate Change Survey, closes 31 May

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

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

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

Here’s GoBike’s letter of support.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

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

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

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

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Glasgow, Battlefield ongoing design works – update

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

3.2 Workplace Parking Levy

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

3.3 Glasgow, City Centre Congestion Improvement response

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

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

Dear Sir / Madam

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

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

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

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

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

Yours sincerely” etc

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

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