Glasgow City

Summer Sessions 2025 – Bellahouston Park public access

Access arrangements for the Summer Sessions outdoor concerts at Bellahouston Park starting in June. During shows, cycling/pedestrian diversion routes are shown in green.
Links: Bellahouston map and Bellahouston notice.
Deadline: Tuesday 13 May 2025.

Woodside Making Places – Traffic Management and Parking Controls

GCC are looking to formalise car parking spaces around Cedar St by the high-rise blocks (at 9, 65 & 104). It’s indirectly related to Connecting Woodside, as works are underway to add a segregated cycleway on nearby St Georges Rd.
Links: Woodside Making Places TRO plan, Woodside Making Places TRO notice and Woodside Making Places TRO report.
Deadline: 30 May 2025.

Renfrewshire

Erskine Town Centre consultation

As the new Renfrew Bridge opens there are more modest plans in nearby Erskine. A ‘Civic Plaza’ would convert an area off Kilpatrick Dr at Erskine Sports Centre. Plans follow on from initial consultation in autumn 2024 (there was an in-person event in April 2025).
Links: Civic Plaza website, 3D ‘event’, display boards (PDF) and Erskine survey.
Deadline: Monday 12 May 2025.

The Digest returns after an extended break for the local council elections (and some tech issues – apologies). The people in charge of a council have a big say in what gets done so it’s worth noting what has (and hasn’t) changed.

Glasgow City Council continues in minority SNP control, with added support from the Greens. However, Anna Richardson has stepped down from her Sustainability role. Instead, the convenor of the Environment, Sustainability and Carbon Reduction City Policy Committee is Elaine McSporran (Cardonald).

Elsewhere, many neighbouring councils have changed hands:

• East Dunbartonshire – SNP minority (from Lib Dem/Tory).
• East Renfrewshire – Labour/Independents (from SNP).
• North Lanarkshire – SNP minority (from Labour/Independents/Tory).
• South Lanarkshire – Labour/Lib Dem/Independent/Tory (from SNP). New council leader Joe Fagan previously criticised infrastructure works in his East Kilbride ward.
• West Dunbartonshire – Labour (from SNP/Independent).

Forthcoming consultations

A few in-person consultation events have popped up recently (including today’s Avenues Plus event on S Portland St). Unfortunately, the next few are on the same evening:

Woodside Making Places – Information Day

Tuesday 31 May, 3–6pm – outside Cedar Community Hub (Cedar St).
Find out more about the Places for Everyone project led by Queen’s Cross Housing Association. This neighbourhood project links to Garscube Rd, N Woodside Rd and the wider Connecting Woodside scheme. It’s also just unveiled Glasgow’s latest mural.

City Centre Campus/‘Learning Quarter’ and Townhead – Public design session

Tuesday 31 May, 4.30–7.30pm – Technology and Innovation Centre (99 George Street).
Hosted by Stantec, who are lead consultant for the campus project involving Strathclyde Uni, Glasgow Caledonian Uni and City of Glasgow College. Likely to focus on their recent survey (but the name is confusingly similar to a previous District consultation).

Contents
(new/updated items in bold – link jumps to article)

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. Shawlands Arcade – Consultation Round 2
2. SWG3 Transport Survey
3. Yorkhill to Anderston Liveable Neighbourhoods
4. Greenock to Battery Park SfP lane
5. *ADDITION – East Renfrewshire Programme

Section 2: Consultation Feedback

1. City Centre Traffic Management Order (Variation 31) George Square 2022
2. Parking and 20mph TROs, East Dunbartonshire

1: Current Consultations
(in date order for responses)

1.1: Shawlands Arcade – Consultation Round 2

Organisation: Clydebuilt developers.
Area: Shawlands Arcade between Kilmarnock Rd and Pollokshaws Rd.
Subject: Further consultation about the regeneration of the shopping arcade. Revised proposals add a few storeys to the height of buildings so they’d be taller than surrounding tenements. The north/south ‘Avenue’ between the two phases of development has a level change with stairs and a lift but no ramp – so it’s not permeable for cycling. There may be cycle access via the service road around the east of site (but it’s not clear in plans). The blurb talks about the South City Way being 2 minutes away but there’s no protected cycle route to get there. There seems to be space to add protected cycle lanes along Kilmarnock Rd, instead of the split level pavement, but that’s not included in the plans. Car parking provision will be around 10% with some secure bike parking.
Website links: Shawlands Arcade consultation 2 – proposals (page may take time to load large, inaccessible images) and Shawlands Arcade survey 2.
Deadline: 31 May 2022.

1.2: SWG3 Transport Survey

Organisation: SWG3 venue.
Area: Eastvale Place, Finnieston next to the railway viaduct.
Subject: SWG3 is a former whiskey bond that’s evolved into a complex of events venues. Well established for its club nights and gigs but on a long cul-de-sac that can be awkward to get to. Big events have a lot of cars doing u-turns at the end of the road outside the venue as people queue in the street. Cycling is one of the better transport options but the only places to lock your bike are railings or gates on the railway arches. SWG3 are asking how people get to the venue and there’s a section about Nextbike and cycle parking.
Website links: SWG3 Transport Survey.
Deadline: 7 June 2022.

1.3: Yorkhill to Anderston Liveable Neighbourhoods

Council: Glasgow City.
Area: From Yorkhill, Kelvinhaugh, Stobcross, Sandyford, Finnieston to Anderston.
Subject: The latest Liveable Neighbourhoods consultation covers the area between the River Clyde, River Kelvin, Kelvingrove Park and M8. Popular active travel infrastructure in the area includes NCN7/75 and the West City Way. Also, the (almost finished?) lanes funded by City Deal on Bunhouse Rd and Old Dumbarton Rd. Further segregated cyclepaths are due for Yorkhill and Kelvingrove Cycling Village. These include Minerva St and Haugh Rd (where Bike for Good have their West hub). However, there are still plenty of gaps, as shown when the riverbank was shut during COP26. A new bridge across the Clyde at the Riverside Museum is due to start construction. Meanwhile, the SEC’s redevelopment may close off the red ‘smartie tube’ bridge at Exhibition Centre station. The M8 motorway remains a barrier to destinations like the Mitchell Library and Anderston station.
First featured: Digest 107, Item 1.11.
Website links: Yorkhill to Anderston LN (Commonplace).
Deadline: June 2022.

1.4: Greenock to Battery Park SfP lane

Council: Inverclyde.
Subject: A Spaces for People temporary route between Greenock town centre and a coastal park. A recent council vote was 9:2 in favour of keeping the lanes for another six months, with a further review in September. Photos in the consultation survey show a mixture of on-road ‘soft’ segregation and painted lanes on footways and across side roads. While some of the junction and bus stop treatments may not be ideal, there seem to be decent protected sections too.
Website links: Greenock Town Centre to Battery Park – Community Engagement and Inverclyde Now article on council vote.
Deadline: No obvious deadline.

1.5: *ADDITION – East Renfrewshire Programme

Council: East Renfrewshire.
Areas: Barrhead, Busby, Neilston, Newton Mearns and Thornliebank.
Subject: Consultations about improvements for five neighbourhoods, each with a Commonplace map. These started earlier in May (but were forgotten by your author, sorry – explains the nagging feeling there were more consultations to cover!). More details to follow about each in the next Digest.
Website links: East Renfrewshire Programme website.
Deadline: 20 June 2022.

2: Consultation Feedback

2.1: City Centre Traffic Management Order (Variation 31) George Square 2022

Council: Glasgow City.
Subject: This Traffic Regulation Order was apparently made on 3rd May 2022. The TRO sets restrictions in and around George Square to allow the temporary Spaces for People changes to be made permanent. These include filtering the west and east sides to remove motor traffic and add planters and seating. The map is unchanged from the version put out to consultation earlier in the year.
First featured: Digest 99, Item 1.6.
Website links: George Sq map.

2.2: Parking and 20mph TROs, East Dunbartonshire

Council: East Dunbartonshire.
Subject: Half a dozen Traffic Regulation Orders for towns across East Dunbartonshire, mostly adding parking restrictions. However, one order removes restrictions (Stewart St, Milngavie) and there’s another for a 20mph zone in Maxwell Ave, Bearsden. The schools TRO restricts parking at the start and end of the school day at Clober Primary School, Milngavie and Westerton Primary School, Bearsden. The TRO for Townhead, Kirkintilloch covers the new development at Civic Way, site of EDC’s former headquarters. All TROs would come into effect on Monday, 11 July 2022.
First featured: Digest 92, Items 1.5–1.7.
Website links: Bearsden & Milngavie Schools – Waiting & Loading Restrictions (PDF); Maxwell Avenue Area, Bearsden – 20 mph Zone (PDF); Dalkeith Ave, Wellington Rd & Westerhill Rd, Bishopbriggs (PDF); Townhead, Kirkintilloch (PDF); Lenzie Road, Kirkintilloch (PDF) and Stewart Street Car Park, Milngavie (PDF).

As the 2020 Paralympics take place in Tokyo, how is Glasgow looking towards its own global event: COP26? Currently, the city council has a new, short notice consultation about suspending public access rights. You may have seen GoBike banners on the subject or media coverage of support from Scotland’s new Active Travel minister – Green MSP, Patrick Harvie. It’s also a last call for the survey on Glasgow’s Low Emission Zone.

It’s a final fling for a handful of consultations around Glasgow (and one in Renfrewshire). There’s a bit longer for a few others – a new survey on secure cycle parking in the city centre and the last leg of East Dunbartonshire’s Active Travel Discussion.

Your author is also going on holiday so the next Digest may or may not be in its usual slot or by its usual writer…

Contents
(new consultations in bold – link jumps to article)

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. Glasgow City Council – Low Emission Zone consultation (ends 2 Sep)
2. Glasgow City Council – COP 26 Section 11 Order: Suspension of Public Access Rights (ends 3 Sep)
3. Rosemount Development Trust – Royston Road Masterplan (ends 3 Sep)
4. Glasgow City Council – Inner East Strategic Development Framework (ends 3 Sep)
5. Renfrewshire Council – Improving Barshaw Park Junction, Paisley (ends 5 Sep)
6. Queens Cross Housing Association – Woodside Making Places: Planning Application (deadline: 6 Sep)
7. NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde/Sustrans – Gartnavel Active Travel Feasibility Study (ends 10 Sep)
8. East Renfrewshire Council – Ayr Road (A77): Spaces for People, Phase 2
9. East Dunbartonshire Council – Active Travel Discussion (ends 28 Sep)
10. Glasgow City Council – Secure City Cycle Parking Survey (ends 3 Oct)

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

None this time.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Glasgow City Council – TRNSMT Festival and Access to NCN75
2. North Lanarkshire Council – Bellshill Gateway & Cycle Facilities project
3. Glasgow City Council – London Rd Spaces for People lanes at Celtic Park
4. East Renfrewshire Council – Proposed Local Development Plan 2
5. Glasgow City Council – Auldhouse Area Traffic Management Order

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

1.1: Glasgow City Council – Low Emission Zone consultation

It was Digest 90, Item 1.3 when we first mentioned this consultation about phase 2 of the Low Emission Zone in Glasgow city centre. Phase 1 applied to local buses only. Phase 2 will include all motor vehicles driven into the zone area between the M8, river and High St (unless exempt, like Blue Badge holders).

The LEZ area is smaller than the City Centre Air Quality Management area, which includes the M8 and parts of Bridge St and Royston Rd. There are only two other AQMAs in Glasgow – Byres Rd/Dumbarton Rd and Parkhead Cross – since the city-wide AQMA was revoked in 2016. Further background is on Glasgow’s Local Air Quality Management pages.

The area the LEZ covers is one of the questions asked in the survey. Enforcement is another – it’s only due to start in June 2023 (or 2024 for people who live in the city centre).

When enforcement does start, fines will escalate for repeat offences (doubling each time within a 90 day period).

The city council have sent GoBike a few reminder emails about this one, which suggests they’re not getting the level of response they were looking for. If you want to influence the shape of the zone (literally) or when it kicks in, see the Glasgow LEZ consultation page, LEZ consultation document and LEZ online survey. Closes on Thursday 2 September.

1.2: Glasgow City Council – COP 26 Section 11 Order: Suspension of Public Access Rights

This is about main active travel routes being closed during October/November around the COP26 climate conference at the SEC. The ‘exclusion zone’ would cover a large area from Ferry Rd to Finnieston St and bridges in Anderston. The cycling diversions will be much longer and less safe than the parts of NCN7 and the West City Way that they replace. GoBike started a petition about keeping routes open (for Glasgow residents only). We also proposed changes to the council’s plans.

See our blog about the closures for more in-depth information and our social media for updates. GCC access rights consultation ends Friday 3 September.

1.3: Rosemount Development Trust – Royston Road Masterplan

This debuted last time in Digest 93, 1.5. It’s about regenerating the western part of Royston Rd. It’s a part of the City Centre AQMA but not in the LEZ. That doesn’t seem to be mentioned while speeding, litter and other issues are. Equally, the project phases outlined in board 6 don’t include cycling at all. Surely it has to be part of the solution, especially with On Bikes’ Flourishing Molendinar project (Digest 92, Item 1.2) just up the same road? This Royston Rd project and theirs both need safe active travel connections to the city centre and Sighthill.

If you know the area at all, please put the case for cycling infrastructure. See the Royston regeneration survey and information boards (ends Friday 3 September).

1.4: Glasgow City Council – Inner East Strategic Development Framework

Another SDF (and another AQMA – Parkhead Cross) first covered in in Digest 90, Item 1.4. ‘Inner East’ is an arbitrary area made up by the council, who’ve decided Parkhead is the main place East Enders want to get to. While the Forge Shopping Centre is important for many, there’s an assumption here that all roads lead to Parkhead (including phase 3 of the East End Regeneration Route dual carriageway). A train station for Parkhead gets a few mentions but that’s what the East End Local Development Strategy said back in 2008. Active travel is mentioned a lot but road-building still seems to be central.

There are many more assumptions (“locals prefer to drive to the forge”) and errors in this SDF. The maps seem rushed, especially the Bridgeton map with two wrong train stations superimposed on it.

On a more positive note, there are a few mentions of permeability. One is about the paths through the Meatmarket site (under construction at Duke St/Bellgrove St) and there are other examples not in the document, like Riverside Dalmarnock.

The council talks up some recent developments by GCC and partners like Clyde Gateway, who have built a lot in the East End in the last decade or so (and do include cycle parking in their developments). However, people have to cycle through the car park of Red Tree, Shawfield as CG didn’t reconnect the path properly between NCN 756 and the Smartbridge (despite being asked). GCC also missed an opportunity to add protected cycle lanes in its Calton-Barras Action Plan (CBAP). So, there are still lessons to be learned.

See the Inner East consultation page for link to the SDF survey (ends 3 September).

1.5: Renfrewshire Council – Improving Barshaw Park Junction, Paisley

In Digest 93, 1.7 we mentioned the plans to improve safety for cycling at Barshaw Park junction. Option 3 had segregated cycle lanes on all roads, while options 1 and 2 only had them on the main road. There was some local hostility to the plans on Facebook – while not surprising on that platform, the plans will need support to progress.

See the Barshaw Park junction community survey to rate the options (ends 5 September).

1.6: Queens Cross Housing Association – Woodside Making Places: Planning Application

Woodside Making Places is a wide-ranging project for the area around St George’s Rd and Braid Square, near Garscube Rd. The previous consultation was in Digest 79, Item 1.4 (and an earlier stage in Digest 65, 3.1). This latest development wasn’t publicised much but was in a Glasgow Live article about Queens Cross Housing Association submitting a planning application.

It’s application 21/02266/FUL for “Renewal of public realm, gardens and greenspaces, including streets and lighting, with comprehensive green infrastructure improvements.” These include some playparks and a lot of tree planting. The most interesting part for GoBike is the ‘Quietway’ cycle route in the plan for North Woodside Road.

The red tarmac makes it look like a Dutch ‘bicycle street’ (where bikes have priority and cars are ‘guests’). Whether or not it will work that way remains to be seen. However, N Woodside Rd is a residential street, which is already filtered to the west at the junction of Maryhill Rd and Hopehill Rd (as featured in Digest 93, 3.3).

N Woodside Rd’s eastern end will link to segregated cycle lanes on St George’s Rd, which are part of the Connecting Woodside Project (and lead to the protected junction at Garscube Rd). So, it should be an important link for the wider area.

There was also due to be an improved path south to Phoenix Rd and the planned ‘Underline’ cycle route below the M8 between New City Road and Cambridge St. However, M8 emergency repairs are underway on the Woodside Viaduct so those Avenue works are being pushed back even further; potentially for a few years.

Deadline for any comments is 6 Sep. See the Woodside Making Places website for more background about the project.

1.7: Sustrans – Gartnavel Active Travel Feasibility Study

This project first came up in Digest 60, Item 3.3 and most recently in Digest 90, Item 3.2. Several GoBike members know the area and engaged with early ideas for the site. A site visit took place in July, when GoBike member Caroline met with the design consultants, ERZ Studio.

The initial proposals from that process are now out for consultation:

• Three shared/side-by-side walking/cycling routes across the site.
• Two new gates created in existing site wall.
• Adjusting crossings at main road junctions.
• Pedestrian precinct/plaza at main hospital buildings.
• Improving access towards Hyndland train station.
• Improving wayfinding signage.

The new northern gate would be next to the existing exit road (as above). However, the proposed eastern gate would open up access from a new location east of the Beatson, through the current stone wall, to Hughenden Lane (where you can see the chimney near the Beatson). This ‘Quietway’ would be an alternative route between Hughenden and Crow Rd, avoiding the very busy Great Western Rd. While it meanders a bit, it should also link to the more direct Shelley Rd (to the north, alongside Bingham’s Pond).

The scope of the project seems to have grown slightly from NHS-owned land to include crossings but not cycleways on the main roads themselves, like Gt Western Rd. Instead, the consultants asked about routes between NHS sites, like Gartnavel and the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital. One query was about a route via the soon-to-be-built Partick–Govan bridge to the QEUH; a mile longer than using the Clyde Tunnel (but might have less closures?).

For now, see the Gartnavel survey – ends 10 September.

1.8: East Renfrewshire Council – Ayr Road (A77): Spaces for People, Phase 2

Covered in Digest 91, Item 1.5, Ayr Rd through Newton Mearns is in a phase 2 consultation. It’s about replacing the phase 1 cones with light segregation, removing some segregation and adding parking bays. For examples of the segregation, maps and more details, see the Ayr Road Phase 2 Commonplace page. No obvious deadline on this one (but still seems to be open).

1.9: East Dunbartonshire Council – Active Travel Discussion 

What can we say about the EDC Active Travel Discussion that hasn’t already been said? There are two more online events left. See the Active Travel Discussion page – ends 28 September.

1.10: Glasgow City Council – Secure City Cycle Parking Survey

Back in Digest 88, in the Infra Update, we mentioned how GCC’s tweet about neighbourhood secure cycle parking drew comments about it missing out the city centre.

Recently, the council launched a survey about “secure cycle parking in the city centre at travel hubs and places of employment.” They want to find out the following:

“a greater understanding of travel patterns, frequency of travel, and what type of provision would appeal to those who require to park their bicycle in the city.

The survey is anonymous and will take approximately 10 minutes to complete.”

Cadogan St multi-storey car park used to have a bike parking area but it wasn’t the most welcoming place. Perhaps Glasgow could aim for facilities like this office development in Bristol or Manchester’s Cycle Hubs.

Considering the spate of bike thefts across the city during the pandemic, this seems like a good chance to ask for more secure bike parking. See the GCC city centre cycle parking consultation page and cycle parking survey – ends 3 October.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

None this time.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1: Glasgow City Council – TRNSMT Festival and Access to NCN75

In Digest 93, Item 3.4 we featured an email from GCC about the closure of NCN75 during the upcoming music festival. GoBike convenor Thomas tweeted about issues with the diversion route and replied to the council’s email. A further response from GCC sounds more constructive than before:

“To advise we are working to improve wherever possible the diversion route… which would hopefully make this route not only a suitable diversion for Major Events within Glasgow Green but also an optional route on a day to day basis.”

The council also wanted to organise a meeting between GoBike and council officers. They said: “we can walk the route highlighting where we will be making improvements”. Also, they would: “allow you an opportunity to speak directly with those planning/managing any works.” We wait to see the improvements but this new ramp was spotted on the route.

Lastly, GCC will “consider a short term working group to hopefully give an opportunity to facilitate improved joint working for the longer term solution to this particular challenge.”

Thomas will set up the meeting shortly and we hope to have further news.

3.2: North Lanarkshire Council – Bellshill Gateway & Cycle Facilities project

In Digest 92, Item 1.9 we featured initial plans for a proposed Velo Park and enhanced entrance to Strathclyde Country Park from Bellshill. A GoBike member was at a recent meeting between local groups and council staff. They’re from NLC’s new Greenspace Projects team, which will have responsibility for ‘Country Parks for the Future’ initiatives at Strathclyde Park (as well as Drumpellier Park in Coatbridge and Palacerigg Park, near Cumbernauld).

The officer clarified a few points, including that the planned mountain bike trails would only be in the north-east of the site. The paths around the South Calder Water would form a loop for walking and cycling as a local exercise route.

The team are looking at a few other issues like the underused hire bikes at the Watersports Centre (including some adapted bikes). Also, a potential cycle hub near Motherwell train station (perhaps in a building nearby).

A bid is due to go in to Sport Scotland by the end of August.

3.3: Glasgow City Council – London Rd Spaces for People lanes at Celtic Park

In Digest 90, Item 3.1, we covered the removal of the temporary ‘zebras’/’armadillos’ on London Rd outside Celtic Park and the Emirates. As well as contacting the council, some GoBike members put our message on London Rd itself.

GCC have taken a while to respond, perhaps because they had homework to do – according to their response…

“a survey of many similar sports facilities around the UK was undertaken and no examples of cycle segregation directly outside these facilities was found. Those that did have cycle facilities had a painted line only. GCC has improved on that by installing a ridged line to provide an audio and visual warning to drivers.

The Department explored alternative options including traffic delineator wands, such as those used on Great Western Road and a combination wand / armadillo design as currently used in Edinburgh City Centre. However, both of these also resulted in significant risk and possible increased risk in the case of the traffic delineator wand.“

The ‘combination design’ became a trip hazard on a high street in Cardiff. However, the above seems to rule out a ‘traffic delineator wand’ (temporary bollard) because it might be a risk.

Circumstantial evidence?

Several GoBike members were sceptical of the reasons given about ‘armadillos’ being a trip hazard. The council’s response says it depends on the circumstances:

“We do not consider that in normal circumstances armadillos represent a high risk trip hazard. However,… mass evacuation… (of) almost 60,000 individuals… would result in a tightly knit, panicked and distressed crowd. Under these circumstances, there would be little visibility of the armadillos and there is a significant concern of serious injury or fatality due to trips / falls and subsequent crush injury.”

There was a crush outside Celtic Park in 2018, where a few fans were injured. However, it was at the confined Janefield St side of the stadium, not the open London Rd side.

Apparently, the decision to remove was: “assessed in conjunction with advice from Police Scotland but no formal record has been kept”. There was no Equalities Impact Assessment “as this process is not appropriate for this type of alteration. None of the protected characteristics as outlined in the Equalities Act are negatively affect by the alterations.”

GCC talk about policy then make an interesting statement. “Designers have a duty under Construction Design and Management regulations to design out risk wherever possible.“

Lastly, they turn from the temporary Spaces for People project to mention the permanent East City Way route on London Rd. “We note your comment about the new East City Way and can confirm that the SFP project officers have discussed these issues with the East City Way officer with a view to designing out the risk as far as reasonably possible within the long term plans.” So, that seems to depends on the circumstances as well.

3.4: East Renfrewshire Council – Proposed Local Development Plan 2

We covered East Ren’s proposed Local Development Plan 2 in Digest 47, Item 1.4 in late 2019. It was submitted to the Scottish Government for its Reporters to consider in their 435-page report! It contains several mentions of GoBike, and our convenor Thomas (with his surname spelled correctly most of the time!).

One of these mentions – ‘(e) Schedule 6: Proposal D8.13: Netherlee to Giffnock’ – was about a potential feasibility study for a footbridge across the railway at Gordon Dr. The report shows there were two people in favour and 19 against so the proposal has been dropped (and will not be in any of their back yards). However, other measures GoBike supported will be included. The 22-page recommendation document details the text changes ahead of publication.

3.5: Glasgow City Council – Auldhouse Area Traffic Management Order

These measures for Auldhouse, in the Southside, appeared in Digest 92, Item 1.8. GoBike’s response made points about one-way streets and potential for contraflow cycling. The council sent a fairly predictable reply:

“…given the narrow carriageway widths and short lengths of carriageway within this self-contained residential area, contraflow cycle lanes were not deemed feasible. Unfortunately, I can therefore advise that cyclists will also be subject to the one way operations.”

GCC’s email goes on to say one-way streets will apparently “enhance road safety for cyclists”. Also: “parking restrictions at road junctions will remove potential obstructions by vehicles at lowered kerbs which will assist pedestrians, wheelchair users and push chairs in crossing the road.” There’s no mention of a joint decision with Police Scotland on enforcement.

In this Digest there are consultation events for areas either side of the M8. There’s a return to pre-pandemic plans for a few City Ways. Also, adding paths and removing the precinct in Motherwell.

If you’re in the city, see Andy’s three infrastructure routes around Glasgow to take in Spaces for People infrastructure. He’s also started to inform GoBike about closures and diversions; if you hear of any please do let us know.

Looking further ahead towards spring, and an election, Pedal on Parliament have news about their events in April.

This Digest includes links in the Contents page so you can jump straight to a topic if you want to.

Contents
(new consultations in bold)

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. Glasgow City Council – (Y)our Districts Online Ideas Workshops – ‘Learning Quarter’, rescheduled online sessions Thursday 18th February
2. North Lanarkshire Council – Ravenscraig Active Travel Links – Friday 19 February
3. Queens Cross Housing Association – Woodside Making Places: updated masterplan and online public meeting – Thursday 25 February
4. Glasgow City Council – St Andrews Drive (Sustainable Transport Route) Order – Sunday 7 March
5. Glasgow City Council – East City Way Phase 1 (London Drive to Daldowie Road) Order – Friday 12 March
6. Glasgow City Council – London Road/Hamilton Road (30mph Speed Limit) Order – Friday 12 March

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. North Lanarkshire Council – Town Visions

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Glasgow City Council – North Kelvin and North Woodside (Traffic Management & Parking Controls) Order
2. North Ayrshire Council – Ardrossan Connections

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

1.1: Glasgow City Council – (Y)our Districts Online Ideas Workshops – ‘Learning Quarter’

GCC’s ongoing Districts consultations featured in Digest 78, including this one for the ‘Learning Quarter’. The rescheduled workshops are on Thursday 18th February. There’s an afternoon session (2–4pm) and an evening session (6–8pm) both online.

You can still comment on the Districts Commonplace map. Other relevant consultations about the wider area appeared in Digest 74, including Strathclyde Uni’s proposed active travel project. There’s also the Avenues Plus project for Duke St/John Knox St in a few years time.

1.2: North Lanarkshire Council – Ravenscraig Active Travel Links

An email from North Lanarkshire Council on 15 February is about a very short consultation period for active travel routes into part of the Ravenscraig site in Motherwell. It says:

“Proposals for new cycling and walking routes through Ravenscraig are being published for the public to give their views.

We are working with Sustrans and Ravenscraig Limited to improve connections between Ravenscraig and neighbouring communities and to expand the active travel network.

An online consultation, including a short survey, will run from Monday 8 February for two weeks. It is available at www.northlanarkshire.gov.uk/regeneration-and-investment/ravenscraig-active-travel-links

The two key elements of the project are:

• a south-north link to connect Craigneuk, via “The Castings” housing development, off Meadowhead Road, with the Regional Sports Facility (RSF) and new public park, and
• an east-west link to connect Craigneuk, via “The Castings” housing development, to New College Lanarkshire Motherwell Campus.

It’s proposed the paths will have lighting, seating, landscaping with wildflower areas and woodland planting, play features along the route, fencing and CCTV where possible.

“As the Ravenscraig site develops with new housing, business, retail, schools and leisure, we want the area to be accessible for everyone for walking, cycling and wheeling,” said Jonathan Speed, Senior Project Manager at North Lanarkshire Council.

“These active travel routes will provide direct, off-road links from the south to the facilities within Ravenscraig, as well as connecting to a wider network of paths to Motherwell, Wishaw and Carfin.

“The project is an important part of the Ravenscraig masterplan, and we would like to hear from as many people as possible during our consultation to ensure the proposals meet the need of residents.”

The project is being funded by Transport Scotland and Sustrans, through their ‘Places for Everyone’ programme.

Feedback from the consultation will inform the final plans for the project, then the council will apply for planning permission. Subject to the necessary approvals and securing funding, it is anticipated work to construct the first of the two active travel routes would start later this year.”

This seems to have been taken over by the council from Central Scotland Green Network (CSGN) who started the project. While an active travel route is welcome, this only covers the south-east corner of a vast area. This route is in contrast to the Ravenscraig Access Infrastructure (RAI) Project from Digest 75, Item 1.2 – a dual carriageway with shared pavement. While there are road links in all directions there are no active travel links to the west of the site (behind Dalzell Works) towards the town centre. We can only hope something comes out of item 2.1, below, to improve the situation.

Deadline is this week, Friday 19 February. If you know the area at all, please fill in the survey.

1.3: Queens Cross Housing Association – Woodside Making Places: updated masterplan and online public meeting – 25 February

This featured in Digest 79 about the Woodside area, between Maryhill Rd and Garscube Rd. It could become an important link along N Woodside Rd and St George’s Rd to the segregated cycleway being completed on Garscube Rd (A81). The consultation map is on the updated Woodside Making Places website. There is an online public meeting on Thursday 25th February.

1.4: Glasgow City Council – St Andrews Drive (Sustainable Transport Route) Order – Sunday 7 March

GoBike first reported on plans for St Andrews Drive in a Consultation Extra in late November 2019. The route would extend the South West City Way (SWCW), the segregated cycleway along Shields Rd. It currently ends at a crossing on St Andrews Drive. The extension would roughly double the length of the SWCW and create a segregated route from the ‘Squiggly’ Bridge, all the way past Maxwell Park to Pollok Country Park.

Glasgow City Council have now announced a Traffic Regulation Order for the length of the St Andrews Dr route. There’s also a SAD notice, SAD report and SAD wee Statement of Reasons. These seem to deal with parking to clear the way for the route.

Further details are still available on the consultation website from late 2019/early 2020. It includes a long ‘Storymap’ and links to PDFs of technical plans for the route (starting at Shields Rd): sections 1–3, sections 4–6, sections 7–9, sections 10–12 and section 13 (Dumbreck/Haggs/Titwood Rd junction).

The existing South West City Way is 2-way (bi-directional) with both lanes on one side of the road. The extension would be the same but, instead of using kerbs as segregation, it would use black and white ‘cycle lane separators’ (also known as zebras/orcas/armadillos). These had already been used on Archerhill Rd, Knightswood. Since then we’ve become more used to seeing them on many of Glasgow’s Spaces for People routes during 2020.

A GoBike response to the SWCW extension plans was sent to Glasgow City Council in late January 2020. It covered points about the choice of route, side road junctions, design elements, 2-way provision, speed limits and implementation. It also gave detailed feedback about parts of the route, especially junctions, like at Dumbreck/Haggs/Titwood Road at Pollok Park.

It’s not clear whether GoBike’s points have been taken on board or if designs have been amended. Nor is there any detail about when construction might start. However, it could mean GCC are trying to do some of it during March, before the end of Financial Year. There’s a consultation period for the TRO with a deadline of 7 March. See the GCC website at www.glasgow.gov.uk/proposedtro.

1.5: Glasgow City Council – East City Way Phase 1 (London Drive to Daldowie Road) Order – Friday 12 March

East City Way, Phase 1 had a consultation event over two years ago, as mentioned in a Consultation Extra from October 2018. Preparations for work to begin on the ECW weren’t announced until March 2020 and were then halted by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, GoBike put in a response to the draft plans shortly afterwards. Work eventually started near Mount Vernon station in late summer 2020 (after a further delay which angered a local Tory councillor).

A new order from Glasgow City Council suggests Phase 1 might finally be completed soon. The TRO covers the section that’s been under construction between London Drive and Daldowie Road (next to the Dog’s Trust). An email to GoBike says:

“I now enclose 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, Technical Services, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability, Exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX or email SustainableTransport@glasgow.gov.uk and it must be received by Friday 12th March 2021.”

Although it’s taken a long time, Phase 1 of the East City Way is welcome. It turns the former filter lane into 2-way bike lanes and should make the junction under the railway bridge safer for pedestrians as well as people cycling. While it’s a neat solution for the junction, it’s unfortunate that it doesn’t match up with the existing 1-way segregated lanes on Hamilton Rd. Some cyclists will have to cross over at the lights to continue their journey eastbound while others might choose to stay on the road all the way.

It remains to be seen if smooth new tarmac might tempt them into the cycle lane, away from London Road’s usual roughcast road surface. At the western end there are nearly 2 miles until you reach the Spaces for People lanes at the Shell petrol station. This stretch was traditionally a main route into Glasgow and had a higher speed limit to match. However, that is about to change…

1.6: Glasgow City Council – London Road/Hamilton Road (30mph Speed Limit) Order – Friday 12 March

Closely related to the previous item is this order to change the speed limit on a long stretch of London Rd and Hamilton Rd. Since the M74 extension was built, London Rd has become less well used as a trunk road (apart from on Celtic matchdays). The new limit starts near the Premier Inn on Hamilton Rd (A74/A721), goes past the Dog’s Trust and Mt Vernon then all the way along London Rd to join the current 30mph limit at Dewar’s distillery. It’s a distance of about 3.5 miles on a very rough road surface that isn’t very cycling friendly. While it’s unlikely to become heaven for cycling any time soon, it is a step in the right direction.

GoBike received an almost identical message to the London Rd/Hamilton Rd one, above, so it’s not worth repeating. Here’s the 30mph notice, 30mph map, 30mph report and 30mph Statement of Reasons.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

2.1: North Lanarkshire Council – Town Visions

North Lanarkshire Council have been consulting about their town centres for a few years using various methods, including the Place Standard tool. During 2020, NLC rebranded these processes as ‘Town Visions’. This covers eight towns: Airdrie, Bellshill, Coatbridge, Cumbernauld, Kilsyth, Motherwell, Shotts and Wishaw.

The plans shown so far range from relatively minor changes in Shotts to demolishing large parts of Motherwell town centre and building a few new railway bridges (see image above). By the way, these are different ones to the demolitions and new railway ‘underbridge’ covered in Digest 75. The main issue driving these is economic development, since there will be less retail in town centres in future, but active travel is part of the mix too.

NLC have been consulting with local stakeholders ahead of further public consultation due later in the year. See the Town Visions webpage for links to PDFs of each current town plan.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1: Glasgow City Council – North Kelvin and North Woodside (Traffic Management & Parking Controls) Order

This order featured back in Digest 55 (Item 1.5). It covers a large area on the northern edge of the Woodside project featured above (Item 1.2) and west of Maryhill Rd. Along similar lines to previous schemes in Partick and other areas, it establishes a Restricted Parking Zone (RPZ). An RPZ marks car parking bays on roads throughout the area and charges for them both hourly through parking meters or annually through residents permits. However, all spaces are available on a ‘first come first served’ basis.

GoBike had commented on the draft plans and a few amendments were made by the council. To refresh your memory of the plans, see: relevant map A, relevant map B, relevant map C, statement of reasons, detailed report and frequently asked questions (FAQs).

GoBike’s response to these RPZ proposals was sent on 24 March 2020. On 8 February 2021 we received a reply:

“I note your comments regarding end-on and angled bay parking. During the design phase of the project parallel parking bays were preferred over end-on and angled bays. Where possible we have aimed to avoid end-on and angled bays with only a minimal amount included within the plans. Unfortunately the Council cannot control driving behaviours and preferences when it comes to parking.

I can confirm that another team in the Council is working on sustainable transport and cycle projects within the area, and I will pass on your noted comments for their consideration.

Your comments 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.”

So, we can look forward to future correspondence on this one (on or before January 2022?).

3.2: North Ayrshire Council – Ardrossan Connections

GoBike have been sent a follow-up email after the initial Ardrossan Connections consultation finished earlier in the month. There’s an update on the project website, including a recording of parts of the launch event (with automatic subtitles if you want a laugh). Further online consultation events are due in March.

Contents:

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. Streets for All Glasgow Commonplace Map, a joint GoBike, Glasgow Eco Trust and On Bikes initiative, please add your views and concerns
2. ** NEW** Renfrewshire Council Spaces for People consultation, closes 26 July
3. East Renfrewshire Council, Spaces for People Commonplace Map, closes 31 July
4. Glasgow City Council, help shape the future of (Y)our City Centre Districts

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. GoBike is going to consult its members on the Consultation Digest!

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Glasgow, Woodside Making Places, response to GoBike Submission
2. Glasgow, South City Way, Bus Gate prior to completion
3. Glasgow, Byres Road, Space for Distancing measures prior to cycle lane construction
4. Parking and the Transport (Scotland) Bill, when will it come into effect?
5. A Deposit Return Scheme for Scotland, 2 years to wait!
6. North Lanarkshire Council, work begins on Motherwell Station

Section 1: Current Consultations

1.1 Streets for All Glasgow Commonplace Map, a joint GoBike, Glasgow Eco Trust and On Bikes initiative, please add your views and concerns

Back in Digest 55, Item 1.1 in early March, we alerted you to the Streets for All Glasgow Commonplace Map, an initiative from GoBike in coordination with Glasgow EcoTrust and On Bikes. This was somewhat overshadowed by the Glasgow City Council and the East Renfrewshire Council Spaces for People Commonplace Maps, looking for concern areas where social distancing for active travellers was difficult or impossible to achieve. The Glasgow City Council map has now closed for comment and the East Renfrewshire Council map closes on 31 July, see Item 1.2 below.

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

We will then be able to take these forward to the City Council in a measured way to make our city a better place to live and move.

1.2 **NEW** Renfrewshire Council, Spaces for People consultation, closes 26 July

News just in: Renfrewshire Council have a Spaces for People Fund consultation taking place, but it closes soon, midnight on Sunday 26 July. Here’s some of the information from their website:

“As part of this, we plan to create nine cycleways for active travel, but we want your views on the proposed plans.

These are located at:

• Howwood to Paisley corridor (including Elderslie Gap)
• Glasgow Road (West), Paisley
• Barrhead Road, Paisley
• Causeyside Street, Paisley
• Central Paisley and West – including Ferguslie, St Mirren and Kilbarchan Rd
• Inchinnan Road, Paisley
• Greenock Rd, Inchinnan
• Inchinnan Road, Renfrew
• Paisley to Renfrew

View the proposals

You can see the  proposed outline plans on this PDF document [2MB]

Give us your feedback

Let us know what you think on the proposed cycleways by emailing us at ei@renfrewshire.gov.uk Your feedback can be submitted until midnight on Sunday 26 July 2020.”

This is quite and impressive set of proposals, many on major roads, so please do have a look at the details and put your comments in. GoBike has submitted this letter today, which might give you a few pointers.

1.3 East Renfrewshire Council, Spaces for People Commonplace Map, closes 31 July

East Renfrewshire Council is consulting on Spaces for People until the end of this month, ie a week on Friday, 31 July. Here are details of their Transport Response to Covid 19 and here is a direct link to the ERC Spaces for People Commonplace map. Please do contribute if you know the area.

1.4 Glasgow City Council, help shape the future of (Y)our City Centre Districts

Just about everyone who lives in Glasgow or visits from surrounding areas goes to one or more of these areas, ie the Merchant City, Cowcaddens, Townhead or the Learning Quarter so must have views on how improvements could be made. Please do enter them on the Commonplace Map. No closing date given but don’t delay.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

2.1 GoBike is going to consult its members on the Consultation Digest!

Yes, we are going to consult GoBike members who are on Slack about the Digests. The editor of the Digests will be standing down at the GoBike AGM in November and we want to know what you, if you are a GoBike member (and it’s easy to join), think of these publications and even whether you might wish to get involved in their production. Watch out on the GoBike Slack Consultation channel for news of the survey.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Woodside Making Places, response to GoBike Submission

In Digest 63, Item 1.8 we detailed this public realm consultation by Urban Realm and included the detailed response from GoBike, drawn up by GoBike member, Brenda, with contributions from GoBike member and local resident, Alasdair.

On 07 July, almost in time to be in our last Digest, we got this excellent email back from the Woodside Making Places team:

“Dear Tricia,

Thank you for taking the time to thoroughly look over the plans; we agree that it would be preferable to have a face-to-face assessment of the plans, however at the moment, this is not something we are going to achieve unless Scottish Government restrictions change.

Going through points in your letter:

• Some roads are excluded primarily for budgetary reasons – we are keen to spend on people-focussed improvements, rather than descend into a road resurfacing project.
• We will look at opportunities for continuous footways with reduced radii at points mentioned – we would agree that this could be a very useful addition.
• We will consider the width of the paths and aim to provide 4m where possible.
• The area is relatively permeable at the moment, and we have picked up on a few existing desire lines, the next stage will review comments from the resident consultees and also bear in mind your note about ensuring permeability.
• We are looking at a variety of cycle storage, from individual (or family sized) lockers capable of taking trailers / cargo bikes etc. to ad hoc visitor parking (Sheffield-type stands). The refurbishment of the tower block included some cycle storage. The location of these will be reassessed at the next stage of design based on the criteria you have provided. The Oakgrove shelter is a sketch at this stage and not intended as sole cycle storage for the school, we would expect this to be funded through the Cycle Friendly School initiative; the shelter would primarily serve parents / visitors / residents.

In response to specific details raised in your letter:

• The shared path along Braid Street is currently shown 4m wide.
• We will be reviewing parking along Raglan Street and Braid Street in line with your comments – this is great advice as a way to treat parking in this situation.
• There is a large level difference between Unity Place and the back of the flats at Braid Street, the path that zig-zags through the green space is designed to be an accessible gradient and is the primary route between the two; the steps are a quicker cut through.
• Karol Path has a multi-level set of issues; primarily the existing trees (much enjoyed by residents) are causing issue with the paving. The balance between retaining existing natural capital and access by people needs to be struck.
• We will investigate the viability between the west of Torridon Court and North Woodside Road, however this needs to work with the existing trees, and provide an accessible route. From a quick look, it would appear that this would be similar in length to the accessible route that we have shown going to the new plaza area at the junction of St. George’s Road and North Woodside Road.

We will be consulting on further phases and hope that there are clarifications and refinements which reflect your helpful advice and points of discussion above. Thank you again for your input. 

Best regards,
The Woodside Making Places Team“

Yes, they had read and taken note of our letter and not simply assigned it to either the Support or Objection box. We look forward to further dialogue and to overall improvements in this area.

3.2 Glasgow, South City Way, Bus Gate prior to completion

In Digest 25, Item 1, issued on 10 January 2019 we gave details of the proposals for continuing the South City Way from the Brazen Head pub at Cumberland Street along Gorbals Street and over the Clyde at the Victoria Bridge to the junction at the Clutha pub.

You might have noticed that construction on this section has not yet started? GoBike’s co-Convenors, Thomas and John, held an online meeting recently with Councillor Anna Richardson, who gave them this information:

• The appointed contractor is unable to start on site just yet.
• To improve cycling in the meantime the City Council has decided to install the bus gate, which was part of the consultation, at Cumberland Street for the southern section of Gorbals Street, ie from the Brazen Head junction to Cleland Street, just south of the Citizens’ Theatre. This will prevent private cars from travelling north on Gorbals Street between 7am and 7pm.
• Also, a cycle lane will be formed on Victoria Bridge.

While it’s disappointing that the South City Way is delayed (again), these 2 moves will improve road conditions for cycling.

3.3 Glasgow, Byres Road, Space for Distancing measures prior to cycle lane construction

At the same meeting GoBike was told that the construction of cycle lanes on Byres Road is not yet to be started but, to allow for social distancing, the following 2 measures will be put in place:

• The footways at both sides will be widened to allow social distancing for pedestrians
• Parking will be banned.

While these measures are not what GoBike and Space for People Byres Road campaigned for, the removal of parking will make cycling significantly better and we will all be able to enjoy the wider pavements on Byres Road in the meantime.

3.4 Parking and the Transport (Scotland) Bill, when will it come into effect?

GoBike has been campaigning for a ban on pavement parking since at least September 2015 as this post on our website demonstrates. We have responded positively to consultation too.

Anyone who has been out and about during lockdown will have seen that pavement parking is endemic; car after car after car with either 2 or all 4 wheels on the pavement outside flats and houses. The photo above was taken in a residential area in Glasgow, the feature photo for this Digest shows pavement parking, not far from their place of work, by employees on a route into Renfrew. This really does cut down the space for walking and cycling, so just what is happening?

MSP Sheila White’s Pavement Parking Bill was subsumed into the Transport (Scotland) Act, which the Scottish Parliament voted to pass on 10 October 2019.  The Bill received Royal Assent on 15 November 2019, ie over 9 months ago. No news of any progress on the Transport Scotland website and even Living Streets don’t have any update on their website.

Something to follow up with your MSP? Please do.

3.5 A Deposit Return Scheme for Scotland, 2 years to wait!

The Scottish Government consulted on a Bottle Deposit return scheme in 2018 as featured in Digest 15, Item 1.5. It may now be seen, on the Scottish Government website, that the scheme was approved in May this year and will go live in July 2022. Details of The Deposit and Return Scheme for Scotland Regulations 2020 may be seen here.

What’s this got to do with cycling, some might ask? Anyone who cycles around our towns and residential areas can’t have failed to see broken glass, let alone litter, and it’s the very fortunate person who hasn’t had a puncture on broken glass. Surely we all hope that with the implementation of the scheme there will be enough people who see the financial benefit of returning their bottles, to at least save a few tyres?

3.6 North Lanarkshire Council, work begins on Motherwell Station

GoBike responded to a Planning Application for a cycle access path to Motherwell Station earlier this year, as featured in Digest 61, Item 1.1, which will be a wee bit better than the existing. We received this update from North Lanarkshire Council on 17 July:

“ScotRail have appointed Balfour Beatty to carry out the works to redevelop Motherwell Rail Station. The station plans are the first phase of a wider project to create a transport integration hub in Motherwell town centre. The second phase on Muir Street will be carried out by the council in 2021.

The station works are being led by ScotRail. Transport Scotland and Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) are also providing funding for the £14.5m project. Work started on 29 June with the demolition of an old building at the bottom of Platform 1 to make way for a new staff car park and will continue at the station itself in early August.

The taxi rank at the front of the station will close later in July to make way for ScotRail staff portacabins. Taxi pick up and drop will remain available on Muir Street. Two disabled parking bays will also be provided close to the station entrance during the works.  

For further information about the project, please visit: www.northlanarkshire.gov.uk/motherwellstation ” 

It looks as it it will be a wee while, though, before access to the station is upgraded, but do take care near the works if you use Motherwell Railway Station.

______________________________

We’re moving out of lockdown and into the holiday season with only a few weeks before the schools go back.
Do enjoy the rest of the summer! More news early in August.

Contents:

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. Scottish Government – Just Transition Commission, closes 30 June
2. Glasgow, Pollok Country Park – Planning Application, closes 06 July
3. Glasgow City Council, Spaces for People Commonplace Map, YOUR views are required.
4. East Renfrewshire Council, Spaces for People Commonplace Map, looking for YOUR views
5. **NEW** Glasgow City Council, South Central Glasgow Local Development Framework – Key Issues Survey, closes 06 July
6. Scottish Parliament EHRi Committee, Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Equalities and Human Rights
7. Scottish Parliament, EEFW Committee, COVID-19 – Impact on Scotland’s businesses, workers and economy
8. Glasgow, Woodside, Urban Realm seeks views on Public Realm Improvements
9. Glasgow, help shape the future of (Y)our City Centre Districts

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

There is ongoing consultation via the Commonplace maps! Please contribute and, hopefully, some of the comments will be developed into full-blown schemes for future consultation.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. North Lanarkshire Council, City Deal, Motherwell Town Centre Transport Interchange Planning Application, response to GoBike submission
2. Glasgow, Multiplex University of Glasgow Campus Development – June 2020 Newsletter

Section 1: Current Consultations, in date order (more or less) for responses

1.1 Scottish Government – Just Transition Commission, closes 30 June

We have featured this consultation a few times now, most recently in Digest 62, Item 1.1 and it’s important that YOU follow the link and put your views in within the week, ie by 30 June, next Tuesday. We have a climate emergency and we need to move to a green economy. Please do this; it’s an easy set of questions and it’s important that we all get our views in.

1.2 Glasgow, Pollok Country Park – Planning Application, closes 06 July

Information on this Planning Application arrived just in time to get a mention in Digest 62, Item 1.2 and:

“The application is now available to view here (Reference Number 20/01352/FUL): https://publicaccess.glasgow.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?keyVal=QAZZ49EXIKO00&activeTab=summary“

The main document outlining the proposals is the Design and Access Statement.

The purpose of the proposed changes are to improve active travel and public transport access to the park and modifying access by private cars. If you visit the park do please have a look and see if the proposals meet your aspirations, or not – but do let the City Council know either way.

The main points to note and comment on, from GoBike’s perspective, are:

• Through motor traffic will be stopped.
• There is to be a new general car park and it is important that the existing car park closer to the Burrell is retained ONLY for accessible parking, bus and coach drop offs and deliveries.
• Parking should be charged in line with other visitor attractions in the city.
• There is currently visitor parking on Haggs Road and other local roads because the existing car park, and the whole park, is closed. The lane currently being used for parking in Haggs Road should be redesigned for cycle use. Residential roads currently being used for Pollok Park parking should be provided with double yellow lines.
• Changes are required in the traffic lights around the park to facilitate movement for people walking or on cycles.

The GoBike response is currently being prepared.

1.3 Glasgow City Council, Spaces for People Commonplace Map, YOUR views are required.

If you cycle in Glasgow, and we know that most of you do, then you will have views as to where dropped kerbs are needed, where cycle priority is required at traffic lights, where contraflow cycling is needed to prevent large detours, where cycle lanes are required, etc, etc, etc, so please get them onto this map provided by Glasgow City Council in conjunction with Transport Scotland and Sustrans Scotland.

If you don’t get your views in then you can’t complain at the state of things. We mentioned this first in Digest 62, Item 1.9 and here’s a link to the Spaces for People – Glasgow Commonplace map for you to follow.

1.4 East Renfrewshire Council, Spaces for People Commonplace Map, looking for YOUR views

Feeling safe as your circumnavigate this roundabout on your bike? Here’s the link to the East Renfrewshire Council’s page outlining the approach to COVID-19 measures and the Commonplace map is here, for your views and comments. We featured this first in Digest 62, Item 1.6 and we do hope that you will show East Renfrewshire Council where changes are needed to improve your journeys.

1.5 **NEW** Glasgow City Council, South Central Glasgow Local Development Framework – Key Issues Survey, closes 06 July

Proposals for the development of the city continue to be drawn up and here’s the latest email that arrived on 15 June:

“Dear All

As part of the implementation of the Glasgow City Development Plan, we are preparing Local Development Frameworks (LDFs) for three key areas of spatial change across the City. 

One of these areas is South Central Glasgow where we are working with Architecture and Design Scotland as part of their Place Planning for Decarbonisation initiative to ensure our plans are more climate and carbon considerate and in line with Glasgow City’s commitment to tackle climate change and achieve a target of net-zero carbon by 2030.

We had intended to host a number of collaborative workshops to seek your input in identifying the key issues / key areas for improvement for the area and to help us to shape the emerging plan for the area. Due to the current COVID situation, we are limited to carrying out this engagement through an online survey developed in line with the Place Standard Tool. A more formal consultation process will also be held later in the process of developing the LDF.

The survey is available here – https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/SouthCentralLDFSurvey/. The attached document provides a brief overview.

Your input is key to this work and I would be grateful if you could highlight this engagement to your colleagues / other members as well and invite them to complete the survey. The deadline for the same is 6th July 2020.

For any queries regarding the survey or the South Central LDF, please contact (name and email address of the Planning Officer removed by GoBike).

Thank you for your time and input.
Regards

Michael
Michael Ward
Principal Planner, Sustainable Strategy (Neighbourhoods)
Planning & Building Standards, Development & Regeneration Services, Glasgow City Council“

GoBike committee member, Brenda, has looked at the survey for her area and reports that it is essential that you look at the document attached to the email:

South Central LDF – An Overview

This is a survey, and like most of these on-line surveys, it is best done individually. GoBike will be doing a full response when the formal consultation comes out later in the year, but at this time, If you live, work or cycle in any of the areas covered do please do try to get through the rather clunky survey for the area(s) most of concern to you.

Do note though that the pdf says it’s expected to take about 30 mins to complete. It’s worth doing by anyone who cares about any of the areas as a place, but perhaps a bit of an ask if you just want to be able to cycle through safely..

1.6 Scottish Parliament EHRi Committee, Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Equalities and Human Rights, closes 01 January 2021

This government consultation featured as Item 1.3 in Digest 62 and there is no doubt that there are inequalities in travel, among other things. Here’s the link to start the short survey; do please complete it, particularly if you have views for the longer term eradication of inequalities.

1.7 Scottish Parliament, EEFW Committee, COVID-19 – Impact on Scotland’s businesses, workers and economy

This survey was in Digest 62 as Item 1.4 and it applies to all of us:

“The Scottish Parliament’s Economy, Energy and Fair Work Committee is here and ready to listen to your views at this challenging time. We are keen to hear from you on the impact of COVID-19 on businesses, workers and the economy in Scotland.“

Views are invited by email, so it’s an open page for you to give your views. If you are involved in active travel, it’s particularly important to give your views – we are at the bottom of the pile just now, so any progress must be up! Here’s the link you need. Please get typing.

1.8 Glasgow, Woodside, Urban Realm seeks views on Public Realm Improvements

This first appeared in Digest 62, Item 1.5 and here are a couple of quotes from the Urban Realm newsletter:

“Queens Cross Housing Association has opened a consultative website relaying its plans for a series of environmental improvements to the Woodside area of Glasgow to stimulate discussion around the future public realm.“

“Feedback on these approaches is being sought remotely with interested parties invited to share their thoughts directly. All input received will help inform a planning application which is expected to be formally submitted in August, with phase one construction following by spring 2021.“

Note that the designs are actually on the Queen’s Cross HA website. There is a link from the Urban Realm newsletter, but it is not obvious. It is the link in the fourth paragraph, copied above, which says ‘share their thoughts‘. This takes you to the QXHA Woodside Making Places site. You then have to click on ‘The Design’ (top right) and this takes you to the detailed designs for each micro-community. You click on the relevant photographs. If you live in Woodside or your travels take you there, please do comment as to how the area may be improved.

GoBike members, Alasdair and Brenda have toured the area and Brenda has penned this letter of response for GoBike, which was submitted on 22 June.

1.9 Glasgow, help shape the future of (Y)our City Centre Districts

Just in today from GoBike’s co-convenor Thomas, from twitter:

The Leader of Glasgow City Council Susan Aitken is encouraging everyone with an interest in these areas to take part, “So, have your say and pop a pin on our map at http://yourcitycentre2020.commonplace.is“

Many, if not most of us, will live, shop, visit and or work in these areas so please do get your views in.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

We hope that consultations will be getting back to “normal” late summer or autumn but please do take note of where changes are required and post them on Commonplace maps.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 North Lanarkshire Council, City Deal, Motherwell Town Centre Transport Interchange Planning Application, response to GoBike submission

Changes are proposed for Motherwell Railway Station and in Digest 61, Item 1.1 we published this response to the Planning Application 20/00345/FUL

“GoBike, the Strathclyde Cycle Campaign, supports the use of the cycle as an everyday means of transport for people of all ages, and, to realise this aim, we need to see good quality dedicated cycle infrastructure, not simply painted lines on our roads, with adequate parking arrangements at destinations such as railway stations.
We are pleased to support this planning application because it is a step, albeit a very cautious one, in the right direction. We note that currently, or at the time of your public consultation 2 years ago, very few people were cycling to the station. We do not see very much in your proposals to entice more people to use their bikes; we are concerned that although you show a dedicated cycle path to the station on your layout plan, it is directly adjacent to the taxi rank. What is to prevent taxis, their drivers or passengers encroaching on the cycle lane?
During the current pandemic far more people are cycling in Motherwell as they are all around Scotland and, once train services are able to return to more people travelling, although initially allowing for social distancing, we hope that you will be able to encourage far more people to travel to the station by cycle, from all parts of Motherwell and its environs.”

On 09 June, just as Digest 62 was going to press, this reply arrived from North Lanarkshire Council:

“I’ve been forwarded on your recent comments on the above noted planning application in Motherwell town centre, by the Planning case officer.

I’m based in the Council’s Enterprise Projects Team and am the overall project lead for the Motherwell Town Centre Transport Interchange Project, of which these proposals at Muir Street form part.

We’re working in partnership with ScotRail, Transport Scotland and SPT on the wider project, which involves significant investment in Motherwell Rail Station. The proposed investment in Muir Street (through our Glasgow City Region City Deal programme) complements and supports the station proposals. In partnership with SPT, we’ve also invested in park and ride improvements, active travel infrastructure improvements within Strathclyde Country Park and associated signage in the last financial year.

The proposals at Muir Street therefore form part of wider picture which aims to improve public transport and active travel infrastructure, to encourage modal shift to more sustainable travel options by making these options more attractive and accessible.  It is hoped that further infrastructure improvements will follow in coming years, subject to funding.  

In response to specific points raised within your comments:

• Cycle parking arrangements at Motherwell Railway Station:  As part of the works being delivered at the station, a new cycle storage shelter (with capacity for c20-30 cycles) will be provided within the station forecourt. The station works are due to commence at the end of June this year, with completion by Autumn/Winter 2021;

• Extent of the proposals: as noted above, these proposals link to recently implemented works to improve active travel infrastructure within Strathclyde Country Park. The aim of these works was to create an improved off road shared pedestrian and cycle route through Strathclyde Country Park, linking to recent active travel infrastructure improvements at the M74 Raith Interchange, with onwards directional signage to and from Motherwell Rail Station via Ladywell Road and High Road;

• Location of the shared footpath/cyclepath next to the taxi rank: the path running alongside the new station access road and taxi road is a shared use footpath/cyclepath to cater for pedestrians and cyclists accessing the station and for access to the taxi rank. Due to the constrained nature of the site and the number of stakeholder requirements that need to be met, unfortunately we cannot accommodate a wider path in this area. It is intended to install cyclist dismount signage at either end of the taxi rank in recognition of the higher likelihood of conflict between pedestrians and cyclists within this area. The path will be delineated from the taxi rank with kerbing and a different surface finish, although the kerbs will be low in height to enable ease of access to and from taxis.“

Tricia spoke to the writer of the email to express disappointment at the very limited changes and how a path originally described as a “cycle path” is actually intended to be a footpath where one may wheel a bike. The writer, who does cycle and has cycled more during lockdown and seen the challenges, explained the severe limitations on space at this city centre site. From the discussion we are hopeful that we will be able to be more involved in future North Lanarkshire consultations in the future.
If you live in North Lanarkshire do please contact your councillors to press for better cycle facilities.

3.2 Glasgow, Multiplex University of Glasgow Campus Development – June 2020 Newsletter

This newsletter arrived on 17 June and you may read the full contents here. Your chance to get up-to-date with changes at the University.

Please do look at the Commonplace Maps and insert your comments. Hope you enjoy your cycling in these long days of summer but do please take care now more cars are back on the roads.

Yes, we have requests for your views from the Scottish Government to Glasgow and East Renfrewshire councils and cycling organisations, so do please get those fingers clicking.
The majority have no closing dates but don’t delay, get your views in before the cars come back and your temperature rises.

Contents:

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. Scottish Government – Just Transition Commission, closes 30 June
2. **NEW** Glasgow, Pollok Country Park – Planning Application, closes 06 July
3. Scottish Parliament EHRi Committee, Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Equalities and Human Rights
4. Scottish Parliament, EEFW Commitee, COVID-19 – Impact on Scotland’s businesses, workers and economy
5. **NEW** Glasgow, Woodside, Urban Realm seek views on Public Realm Improvements
6. **NEW** East Renfrewshire, Spaces for People Commonplace Map, looking for your views
7. **NEW** Scottish Green Party, Street Space for Glasgow – Join our campaign, tell us your ideas
8. **NEW** Cycling UK in Scotland, Using the Widen My Path mapping tool to call for Space for Distancing measures
9. **NEW** Glasgow City Council Spaces for People – Glasgow Commonplace map

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

We’ve drawn a blank again.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Sustrans, Spaces to Move tool
2. Glasgow City Development Plan – Update
3. Glasgow, On Bikes: how did they get that cycle lane on Langdale Street?

Section 1: Current Consultations

1.1 Scottish Government – Just Transition Commission, closes 30 June

This consultation first featured in Digest 60, Item 1.1 and here’s some information from the Government website:

The Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets)(Scotland) Act 2019 recently passed by the Scottish Parliament contains some of the most ambitious statutory emission reduction targets in the world.

The Just Transition Commission has been established to provide Scottish Ministers with practical, realistic, and affordable recommendations for action that will:

• maximise the economic and social opportunities that the move to a net-zero economy by 2045 offers
• build on Scotland’s existing strengths and assets
• understand and mitigate risks that could arise in relation to regional cohesion, equalities, poverty (including fuel poverty), and a sustainable and inclusive labour market

If you follow the link you will be able to respond to the call for evidence – since most of us have a bit more time at the moment do put your thoughts about maintaining road space for cycling, reducing emissions, etc in the boxes. Please do it for the sake of your health and the nation’s health. There are only about 6 questions, each with a box for your thoughts, so do get them in.

1.2 **NEW** Glasgow Pollok Country Park – Planning Application, closes 06 July

This email arrived yesterday, 08 June; we haven’t had time to digest it yet but if you have any views please do respond yourself to the application but also let GoBike know by either emailing consultations@gobike.org or, if you are an active GoBike member, use the Slack Consultations channel.

“Hello,

Following an extensive period of public engagement, Glasgow City Council and Glasgow Life have submitted a planning application for an Active Travel Management Plan in Pollok Country Park. This Plan improves access to and within the park by promoting public transport and pedestrian links, modifying private car access and vehicular routes within the park, and improving connectivity to local areas.

The application is now available to view here (Reference Number 20/01352/FUL): https://publicaccess.glasgow.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?keyVal=QAZZ49EXIKO00&activeTab=summary

A copy of the engagement feedback and responses will be available to view via the above link shortly.

If you have any questions about the application please get in touch.

Kind Regards,

Glasgow City Council/Glasgow Life“

1.3 Scottish Parliament EHRi Committee, Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Equalities and Human Rights, closes 01 January 2021

This open-ended survey was first covered in Digest 60, Item 1.2 and here’s a quote from the Parliament’s website:

“This inquiry seeks to identify the evidence that some groups of people are experiencing disproportionately negative impacts of the coronavirus, and by some of the measures taken to deal with it.

The inquiry will look at the measures the Scottish Government and other public bodies, including regulatory and oversight bodies, can take to help. It will also examine measures taken by public bodies and the impacts they may have on equality and human rights.

We want to hear your views on:

• which equality groups are being disproportionately negatively affected by the coronavirus, and by some of the measures taken to deal with it 
• what equality and human rights impacts there have been
• what the Scottish Government can change or improve to mitigate against these impacts“

There is no doubt that the very people who suffer from the lack of an effective travel system are the ones who will be suffering from Covid-19. It is significant that many people have adopted the cycle as a means of transport during the pandemic and many more would walk and cycle if our streets were less congested by motor vehicles and the air were cleaner.
There are only 5 questions, each with a box for your thoughts, so please get them down in print.

Here’s the link to start the survey.

1.4 Scottish Parliament, EEFW Commitee, COVID-19 – Impact on Scotland’s businesses, workers and economy

This is the 3rd nation-wide survey that is being aired here for the 3rd time, previously in Digest 60, Item 1.3 and Digest 61, Item 1.5, and it applies specifically to businesses, workers and the economy – which basically affects all of us. Here’s a quote from the Parliament’s website:

“The Scottish Parliament’s Economy, Energy and Fair Work Committee is here and ready to listen to your views at this challenging time. We are keen to hear from you on the impact of COVID-19 on businesses, workers and the economy in Scotland.“

Views are invited by email, so it’s an open page for you to give your views. If you are involved in active travel, it’s particularly important to give your views – we are at the bottom of the pile just now, so any progress must be up!

1.5 **NEW** Glasgow, Woodside, Urban Realm seek views on Public Realm Improvements

GoBike member, Brenda, alerted us to this news from Urban Realm. Here are some words from their newsletter:

Queens Cross Housing Association has opened a consultative website relaying its plans for a series of environmental improvements to the Woodside area of Glasgow to stimulate discussion around the future public realm. 
Conducted in parallel with plans by Sustrans to introduce an active travel network the Woodside Making Places initiative seeks to unify streets, parks and playgrounds as a single connected habitat of routes and spaces.
Indicative designs have been brought forward by landscape architects Raeburn Farquhar Bowen to show how key areas such as St George’s in the Fields; North Woodside Pool and the M8 motorway can be made to function as one with new planting, community gardens, cycle routes and a civic space at the junction of North Woodside and St Georges Roads.

This appears to link in, or even overlap, the Avenues Programme for the Underline route linking Great Western Road with Cambridge Street. However, this current Urban Realm consultation is about the overall public realm whereas the Avenues Programme is more active travel focussed.

The newsletter goes on to say:

“Feedback on these approaches is being sought remotely with interested parties invited to share their thoughts directly. All input received will help inform a planning application which is expected to be formally submitted in August, with phase one construction following by spring 2021.“

Note that the designs are actually on the Queen’s Cross HA website. There is a link from the Urban Realm newsletter, but it is not obvious. It is the link in the fourth paragraph which says ‘share their thoughts‘. This takes you to the QXHA Woodside Making Places site. You then have to click on ‘The Design’ (top right) and this takes you to the detailed designs for each micro-community. You click on the relevant photographs.

So please enter your views as soon as you can.

1.6 **NEW** East Renfrewshire, Spaces for People Commonplace Map, looking for your views

GoBike member, Duncan, alerted us first to this initiative from East Renfrewshire and then on 04 June we received this email from the Local Authority:

“Subject: East Renfrewshire Council Transport Response to COVID-19

Dear Stakeholders,

The situation resulting from COVID-19 is unprecedented has resulted in profound changes to travel patterns and how people use streets and spaces in East Renfrewshire. In response to the emergency East Renfrewshire Council have recently approved a Transport Response to COVID-19, which outlines a dynamic and phased approach to help residents adapt and renew to the current emergency, as well as help mitigate virus transmission and a possible ‘second surge’.

We have recently launched an interactive map in order to provide further information on measures contained in the Transport Response to COVID-19 . This platform will give residents and stakeholders the opportunity to find out more about the Transport Response, proposed plans and the opportunity to provide feedback on specific measures across the area

Spaces for People in East Renfrewshire

East Renfrewshire Council have secured funding through the Sustrans and Transport Scotland ‘Spaces for People’ programme to identify temporary response measures that help residents practice physical distancing and to move around safely in public spaces during the COVID-19 emergency. This is in order to limit virus transmission and to enable residents to safely walk, cycle and wheel for essential journeys and exercise.

As part of this emergency response we looking for your views on issues and opportunities to improve safe physical distancing when walking, cycling and wheeling in your area. For more information and how you can help us identify areas where measures are required please visit  https://erspacesforpeoplemap.commonplace.is  

We hope this information is of use and please feel free to distribute to colleagues, contacts and social networks.

Kind regards

John Shelton – Senior Strategy Officer (Roads & Transportation)

Angus Collins – Partnership Officer (Corporate and Community Services)“

If, for any reason, you walk or cycle in East Renfrewshire, do please contribute to the map.

1.7 **NEW** Scottish Green Party, Street Space for Glasgow – Join our campaign, tell us your ideas

GoBike has no political affiliation, although several of our members are in political parties and here’s a message from the Green Party on a topic close to our collective heart:

The links were removed to get that message in but they are all here. Do have a look – at least this is politicians looking for our views!

1.8 **NEW** Cycling UK in Scotland, Using the Widen My Path mapping tool to call for Space for Distancing measures

It’s important that our views are heard if we wish to make any gains for active travel out of this awful pandemic.

Cycling UK in Scotland is looking for your views, with this email that we received on 05 June:

“Dear campaigners, groups and supporters

Apologies for the mass mailing and to anyone who is already using the Widen My Path tool.

This is a quick update about how we are using the Widen My Path campaign’s mapping tool in the next phase of our campaigning at Cycling UK in Scotland.

The number of Scottish councils applying to the Space for People fund is growing and we hope to see many more measures being put in place soon. At CUK we are now asking our members and supporters to use the Widen My Path campaign tool to 1) show there is still a need for all councils to provide space for distancing and 2) show where measure would be most helpful. Our campaign webpage also helps supporters to contact their councillors to let them know they have used the tool.

Some councils are already consulting on where measures would be most helpful so we will be asked them to use the responses in the Widen My Path map in conjunction with any other mapping tools or decision-making processes.

It would be great to get lots of ideas uploaded onto the Widen My Path map so if you are part of a local campaign please do encourage your group members, and their friends and relations, to use it either directly at https://www.widenmypath.com/  or through our CUK webpage where people can also send a message to their councillors.

Regards

Jim
Jim Densham
Campaigns and Policy Manager – Scotland, Cycling UK in Scotland“

We need to make our voices heard so please contribute to this campaign.

1.9 Glasgow City Council Spaces for People – Glasgow Commonplace map

Glasgow City Council are working closely with Sustrans to provide Space For People, and have created their own CommonPlace map for this: 

Here’s a link to the Spaces for People – Glasgow Commonplace map, a project initiated, and information supplied, by Sustrans Scotland, Transport Scotland and Glasgow City Council

We in GoBike would like thank everyone for all your great ideas on our Streets for All Glasgow Commonplace site, developed in conjunction with Glasgow Eco Trust and On Bikes. We are hoping to work closely with Glasgow City Council and Sustrans Scotland to make sure these ideas contribute to the new #SpacesForPeople Commonplace from the City Council.

Our Streets For All Glasgow commonplace is still active and we still wish for folk to pass comments on it that are outside of Space For People, so that we can use this as data in the longer term to push for change.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

We’ve drawn a blank again, but there is plenty in Section 1 to keep you busy.

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Sustrans, Spaces to Move tool, looking for feedback

Adam Kesby in Sustrans Scotland wrote to us on 29 May with this email:

“As ever thanks for your bulletins/digests – really useful in my work to get folks to politicise and advocate for their interest in cycling.

At present I am pushing the Spaces to Move tool – it’s UK-wide, trying to gather feedback on the temporary schemes:

Here’s Sustrans’ tweet about it: https://twitter.com/sustrans/status/1258298042668716032

Although not a formal monitoring tool – we are using it to collate responses to schemes – and I thought it would be of interest to you and your network! It’s not just for Spaces for People funded initiatives.“

That’s a nice, short email giving GoBike both praise and information! If you have any feedback do please submit it.

3.2 Glasgow City Development Plan – Update

Two of our members told us about this email that was issued by the City Council on 01 June:

Subject: Glasgow City Development Plan – Update (OFFICIAL)  

OFFICIAL

Dear Sir/Madam

Work has commenced on the production of Glasgow City Development Plan 2 and we wish to give you an update to our position at this time.

It is anticipated that the timescale for the production of the next LDP will emerge during the course of 2020 and will reflect changes to the planning system which are emerging through planning reforms.  Detailed production of CDP 2 has been delayed until revised Development Planning Regulations have been produced in order to allow the new plan to align with emerging NPF4 policy priorities, the strategic context set out by the indicative Regional Spatial Strategy and other relevant strategies and outputs.

The timetable will be reflected in future updates of the Development Plan Scheme.

Early City Development Plan 2 activities have included:

• Early engagement with key statutory and non-statutory agencies to explore common challenges and opportunities;
• Preparatory work on a comprehensive community engagement exercise, which will use the National Place Standard as the basis for communities to input towards new Plan priorities;
• General background research to aid the new Plan preparation process. A series of Background Papers will be published online in due course;
• An early public Call for Sites exercise aimed at identifying potential new sites for development, alternative use or protection (January 2019). All submissions received will be retained and reviewed and there will be further opportunity to submit new sites, given the time period that has elapsed since the original Call for Sites exercise. All sites put forward will be subject to strategic environmental assessment and a wider planning assessment as part of the plan preparation process.
• The adoption of Glasgow’s Open Space Strategy

Regular updates will be prepared and published on the Council’s website to keep you informed of progress on City Development Plan 2 https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/article/17278/News-and-Timetables

Development Plan Team
Glasgow City Council
231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX
developmentplan@glasgow.gov.uk“

3.3 Glasgow, On Bikes: how did they get that cycle lane on Langdale Street?

This short cycle lane is a major success story for On Bikes and the local community in Blackhill. Local people got together to discuss how to make Langdale Street safer for children to get to school, people to get to work and for anyone who wishes to cycle.

Watch this super wee video to see Glasgow’s Lord Provost cycle the route and pronounce his support. Way to go, Blackhill!
https://twitter.com/_OnBikes/status/1262787134160863234

Originally, as seen in the video, the lane was marked out with old tyres, painted white with flowers from a major DIY store in them. Glasgow City Council then painted the lane at the junctions, put a white line along the route and protected it with cones. Unfortunately, the cones have now been removed – let’s hope it’s an administrative error – and cars are back parking there!
However, the City Council have promised to install physical separation – let’s hope it’s put in soon – and to look at the provision of a cycle lane on the other side of the street.

This is a wonderful example of Glasgow City Council listening to the community and supporting them to improve their neighbourhood. Democracy in action.

That’s quite a bundle of requests for your views. Please don’t disappoint them all; get your fingers clicking now!

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

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

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

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

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

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

Section 1: Current Consultations, in date order for responses

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Dear Sir/Madam,

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

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

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

GoBike will be supporting this proposal.

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

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

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

Have our concerns been included in the public consultation?

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

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

Dear Sir / Madam

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

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

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

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

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

As stated in the attached documentation, any person wishing to object to the proposed Order should send details of the grounds for objection in writing to Kevin Hamilton, Head of Roads, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability, Exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RX or by email to NorthKelvinAndNorthWoodside@glasgow.gov.uk by Friday 27 March 2020.

Yours faithfully” etc

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

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

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

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

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

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

Avenuepark Street

Clouston Street

Doune Quadrant

Hathaway Street

Kelvin Drive

Striven Gardens

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Good Afternoon

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

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

LEZ Public Consultation

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

LEZ Stakeholder Workshop

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

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

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

Lunch and refreshments will be provided.

Many thanks.

Sustainable Glasgow
Neighbourhoods & Sustainability
Glasgow City Council“

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

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

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

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Dear Cycle Forum Member.

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

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

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

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

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

Regards

James
James Ledgerwood
Head of Economic Development & Communities
ScotRail“

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

3.3 North Lanarkshire, Local Development Plan update

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

“Dear Sir/Madam,

NORTH LANARKSHIRE LOCAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN UPDATE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dear Ms Fort

Thank you for your attached enquiry.

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

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

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

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

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

3.5 Glasgow, Belmont, confirmation of Traffic Management Order

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

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

Dear Sir/Madam

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

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

This Order will:

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

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

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

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

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

Yours sincerely,” etc

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

A further email on 26 February included this information :

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

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

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

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

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

Dear Ms Fort

Thank you for your attached enquiry.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3.8 Glasgow University, March newsletter from Multiplex

Latest newsletter on what’s happening at this University.

3.9 North Toryglen Greenspace & Active Travel Project update

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

Dear All,

North Toryglen Greenspace & Active Travel Project

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

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

3.10 South Lanarkshire, new cycle lanes!

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

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

3.11 Glasgow, Active Travel Forum

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

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

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

3.12 Sheriffhall success – what next? Update from Scottish Greens

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

“Success!

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

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

Read all about the Green budget deal.

What’s next?

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

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

Claire Miller
Green councillor and transport spokesperson in Edinburgh Council”

________________________________________________

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

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

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

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

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

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

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

Section 1: Current Consultations in date order for response

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

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

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

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

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

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

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

3.2 Glasgow, Central District Regeneration Framework, submission and acknowledgement

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

Here’s the acknowledgement, received later that day:

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

3.3 Glasgow, Ardencraig Road, Traffic Calming, submission

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

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

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

3.5 Glasgow, Castlemilk Drive, Traffic Calming Submission

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

3.6 Glasgow, Mosspark Drive Traffic Calming, submission

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

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

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

3.8 Glasgow, South Side Car Club TRO, submission

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

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

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

Dear Ms Fort

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yours sincerely“

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

3.9 North Lanarkshire, £5 million electric vehicle charging network

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3.11 Glasgow, Byres Road 20mph TRO, submission

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PUBLIC HEARING

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

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

Participation in the hearing

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

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

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

Pre-hearing meeting

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

The meeting will take place as follows:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

All representations will be in the public domain

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

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

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

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

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

Webcasting

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3.16 Glasgow University Campus Development February update

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

3.17 Glasgow, Good News with some Progress on Contraflow Cycling

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

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

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

__________________________________________

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

_____________________________________________________________________

Contents

Section 1: Current Consultations

1. **NEW** Scottish Government propose to build “spaghetti junction” at Sheriffhall Roundabout on the A720, Edinburgh Bypass, closes 31 January
2. Glasgow, South West City Way, St Andrews Drive extension on-line consultation, closes 03 February
3. Law Commission, Highly Automated Road Passenger Services, HARPS, public consultation period now extended to 03 February
4. **NEW** Glasgow Avenues – Your Avenues Consultation, on-line, closes 09 February
5. **NEW** Glasgow, Ardencraig Road Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 11 February
6. **NEW** Glasgow, Bankfoot Road and Wedderlea Drive Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 11 February
7. **NEW** Glasgow, Castlemilk Drive Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 11 February
8. Glasgow, Central District Regeneration Framework, closes 14 February
9. **NEW** Glasgow, South Side Car Club Traffic Regulation Order, closes 14 February
10. **NEW** Glasgow, Carmunnock Road Service Road, TRO, One-Way with no contraflow, closes 14 February
11. Glasgow, Byres Road, Byres Road Traffic Management and Parking Controls, includes cycle lanes, closes 14 February
12. Glasgow, Byres Road, 20mph Speed Limit Zone, closes 14 February
13. Glasgow, Byres Road, Hillhead Traffic Management and Parking Controls, closes 14 February
14. **NEW** Scottish Government, Housing to 2040: consultation on outline policy options, closes 28 February

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

1. Glasgow, South West City Way, St Andrews Drive extension, consultation event TOMORROW, 22 January
2. Glasgow Avenues, Stockwell Street and Glassford Street Avenue, 25 February
3. Glasgow, Transforming Pollok Country Park – Public Meeting, 04 February

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

1. Glasgow, Fastlink Route, (Finnieston Bridge to Whitefield Road) Order 2015, Amendment No.1 20__, acknowledgement of GoBike objection
2. Glasgow, Ashgill Road Traffic Calming, GCC response to our concerns.
3. Glasgow, Duror Street, Traffic Calming, GCC response to our concerns
4. Glasgow, construction of Sighthill pedestrian/cycle bridge to start next month
5. Glasgow, Connecting Woodside Update, with news of new Facebook page
6. Glasgow Avenues project, George Square and Blythswood Square.
7. East Dunbartonshire, Proposed Traffic Regulation Order – Killermont Avenue, Rannoch Drive and Woodvale Avenue, Bearsden – Waiting & Loading Restrictions, approved

Section 1: Current Consultations

1.1 **NEW** Scottish Government propose to build “spaghetti junction” at Sheriffhall Roundabout on the A720, Edinburgh Bypass, closes 31 January

Here’s a message that has been put out by Alison Johnstone, MSP (Green Party), which is pretty clear and self-explanatory. New road construction means less money to build cycle lanes. Please respond.

“The Government look set to spend £120 million on a new spaghetti junction on Edinburgh’s bypass. We can stop them though. Government are consulting on the new junction now. Please take a second to object and ask them to invest these funds into public transport and bike lanes instead. We can’t just keep on pouring public money into building new roads like there is no climate emergency.

Take action now
 
By their own admission, the Government expects this scheme to increase traffic by 5%. Across the world we’ve learnt that if you build more road capacity it just fills with more cars and causes more pollution.

But the same is true with the alternatives. Invest in public transport, and the buses, trains and trams fill up. Build cycle lanes, and people get on their bikes.

Business as usual is killing the planet, and it’s time for change. The Government declared a climate emergency. Sheriffhall spagetthi junction is the first test of whether they mean it.

Lets make this clear and flood them with objections. Please take action and share the campaign now.

Yours
 
Alison Johnstone, Scottish Green MSP for Lothian

Take Action Now  “

1.2 Glasgow, South West City Way, St Andrews Drive extension on-line consultation, closes 03 February

This has been mentioned once or twice already, Item 1.13 in Digest 49 gave the details for this on-line consultation, do please respond before it closes. Here’s the link to the City Council’s consultation page where you have to scroll down to find this one.

The survey is quite short, so won’t take you long to do – and do try to ignore all the “typos” in the information in the Council’s consultation information!

While this isn’t one of the city’s radial routes, which are so important, a good cycle route out to Pollok Park from the city centre should get people to take to their bikes. You might wish to question why the route is two-way on one side of the road rather than 2 lanes, one each side? Another concern is cycle priority at side roads – including all the driveways!

1.3 Law Commission, Highly Automated Road Passenger Services, HARPS, public consultation period now extended to 03 February

There’s no reason given as to why this consultation is being extended but here’s the email that we got on 07 January:

“Dear All,

Firstly, we would like to thank all of you who have already provided responses to the consultation.

Many of you have also been in contact to request more time to complete your responses. We are happy to announce an extension to the consultation period.  

We now invite you to respond to the paper by 3 February 2020.

Our online portal for submitting responses will remain open until midnight on this date but we also welcome input in any format. Attached is a word version of the online portal – please feel free to use this form if you prefer.  

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

Yours sincerely,

Automated Vehicles Team – Law Commissions“

Note that the word version of the online portal is not given here. GoBike uses WordPress for its website and this does not permit the uploading of word documents. If you wish to have the word version please request one direct or email consultations@gobike.org

Here’s the letter of response that GoBike sent in on 06 January. Be afraid, very afraid!

1.4 **NEW** Glasgow Avenues – Your Avenues Consultation, on-line, closes 09 February

The Avenues programme has been quiet for a while but here’s a recent email that we received last week, headed “Glasgow Avenues: Glassford Street and Stockwell Street Online and On Street Consultations”:

“On 16 Jan 2020, at 19:56, Avenues <avenues@ironsidefarrar.com> wrote:

Glasgow Avenues – Your Avenues Consultation

A multi-disciplinary design team led by Ironside Farrar Ltd has been appointed to deliver the second phase (“Block B”) of the Glasgow Avenues programme which will invest £115m in the public realm of the City Centre in the next few years, introducing a network of connected ‘green’ routes across Glasgow’s city centre. 

Block B includes Stockwell Street and Glassford Street Avenues.

The Design Team are seeking to consult with you – local residents, businesses and stakeholders –  on the draft proposals for these two streets in the following 3 ways:

1. You are invited to view and comment on the concept designs online at: www.glasgow.gov.uk/avenues

2. Complete the Scottish Government ‘Place Standard’ tool online at:  www.placestandard.scot/start/glasgow-avenues-glassford-street-stockwell-street, helping us understand your perception of the street as it is today.

3. Drop-in to our on-street consultation: look out for out friendly rickshaw displays on Saturday 25^th January, where staff will be on hand to discuss the emerging design thinking and to record your opinion on the concept designs.

Please feel free to forward this email to other parties who may be interested in getting involved.  The online consultation is open until 9^th February 2020.

Thanks in advance for your assistance.

Kind Regards,

Charlie Griffiths“

From point 1, clicking on the link will get you to the City Council’s Avenues page. Click on the down arrow at Consultations and then on “here” under “Current Consultation”.

Or you can try this quick link: https://glasgowgis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapJournal/index.html?appid=94c1feae990244afb5650b928f14c959

The questionnaire for point 2 is quite curious – very generic, but you will be able to comment on the dominance of the motor vehicle, particularly with respect to the large areas on Stockwell Street given over to car parking. Why aren’t they proper parks, with trees and grass and somewhere to sit?

We’ve been told that the consultants have 2 rickshaws that will be moving about but do look for them at the Argyle Street precinct or further south at the car park area. If you go, do please have your bike with you, or your children, or ageing aunt in a wheelchair – anything to demonstrate that we should have priority over all the cars in the area.

1.5 **NEW** Glasgow, Ardencraig Road Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 11 February

Glasgow City Council now seem to have an alphabetical approach to traffic calming with this and the next 2 schemes that have arrived in the Consultations mailbox this very morning, 21 January. Here is the email and attachments for the first, Ardencraig Road in Castlemilk:

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

Dear Sir / Madam

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

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

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

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

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

Ardencraig Road

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

• 3 sets of 3, 1.9m, 75mm high, speed cushions,
• 3 sets of 2, 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 11 February 2020).

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 phone 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 attached documents: Proposals, Proposals Section 1 and Proposals Section 2

It’s the standard approach to high traffic speeds, yet again, by the City Council, which is now proclaiming itself as “Glasgow – proud host of the 26th UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) – UK2020” but where are the cycle lanes to the school?

1.6 **NEW** Glasgow, Bankfoot Road and Wedderlea Drive Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 11 February

Moving on to “B” and north-west to Cardonald, here’s the email from earlier today, 21 January, for these 2 residential roads:

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

Dear Sir / Madam

The Glasgow City Council, (Bankfoot Road and Wedderlea Drive), Traffic Calming Scheme

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

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

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

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

• Bankfoot Road
• Wedderlea Drive

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

• 6 sets of 3, 1.8m, 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 11 February 2020).

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 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

Here’s one of the feeder roads on to the cycle lanes we so desperately need on Paisley Road West if we are to achieve the modal split required to save the world. Not many, sorry, not any, apologies for not reaching the target, the aim, no sorry, just an aspiration of 10% of journeys by bike this year, were there? Let’s look to doing better this decade.

1.7 **NEW** Glasgow, Castlemilk Drive Traffic Calming Scheme, closes 11 February

On that long Castlemilk Drive (singing along to Devil Gate Drive, a classic from Suzy Q!), struggling up to, or coasting down from, the top of the hill and the countryside of South Lanarkshire, motorists are going too fast and so we must suffer yet more speed cushions. Why can’t such concerns be declared as public realm schemes and then we might get cycle lanes, giving us enough room to wobble up the hill without danger of being clipped by a close-passing motor vehicle? However, money is tight and the COP26 delegates won’t be encouraged to visit Castlemilk, so we will be stuck with another rash of speed cushions. Here’s the email received from the City Council today, 21 January:

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

Dear Sir / Madam

The Glasgow City Council, (Castlemilk Drive) Traffic Calming Scheme

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

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

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

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

• Castlemilk Drive

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

• 4 sets of 3, 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 11 February 2020).

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 phone number removed by GoBike).

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

Yours faithfully”, etc

Here’s the plan showing the proposed speed cushions: Castlemilk Drive plan

Note the active-travel friendly parking! GoBike will applaud the aim, but not the method, of reducing traffic speeds here.

1.8 Glasgow, Central District Regeneration Framework, closes 14 February

This consultation featured in Digest 50, Item 1.7 and here is the link, again, to the City Council’s consultation page. This consultation is the second item on page 1. We hope to have the GoBike response in our next Digest.

Note that the area it covers is bounded on the south-east by Glassford Street and Stockwell Street.

1.9 **NEW** Glasgow, South Side Car Club Traffic Regulation Order, closes 14 February

Here’s a consultation that GoBike responded to at Stage One – details further on – but this is the email for the public consultation that we received on 16 January:

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

Dear Sir / Madam

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

Further to my consultation email of 3^rd December 2019 regarding the above named Traffic Regulation Order, and in accordance with statutory procedures, I now enclose a copy of the press notice of the proposed Order, relevant drawings, statement of reasons and detailed report.

The location proposed for Queen Elizabeth Gardens has been removed from this order and will be included in a future parking control order for the area.

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, Sustainable Transport, Neighbourhoods and Sustainability, Exchange House, 231 George Street, Glasgow, G! 1RX or by e-mail to SustainableTransport@glasgow.gov.uk by Friday 14^th February 2020.

Yours faithfully,” etc

Here are the documents referred to in the email above: Advert, Report, Statement of Reasons, Allison Street plan, Paisley Road West plan, Torrisdale Street plan, Kenmure Street plan and Albert Drive plan.

At Stage One we were given this information by email:

“Background to the proposed Order
This order is proposed to provide car club and electric parking on the south side at the locations below in line with the Council’s policy for sustainable transport and emission reductions.

Area affected by the proposed Order
The area is the south side of the city.

Details of the proposed Order
The order proposes the following restrictions as shown on the attached drawings:

• Electric charging and car club bays on Alison Street east of Langside Road.
• Electric charging and car club bays on Queen Elizabeth Gardens north of Old Rutherglen Road.
• Electric charging and car club bays on Paisley Road West at Cessnock Street.
• Electric charging and car club bays on Torrisdale Street west of Victoria Road.
• Electric charging and car club bays on Kenmuir Street north of Albert Drive.
• Electric charging and car club bays on Albert Avenue north of Queens Drive.“

You will see that Queen Elizabeth Gardens in the Gorbals has been removed at the Public Consultation stage, presumably because of local lobbying but GoBike objected, see this letter, to the inclusion of Paisley Road West. Paisley Road West is a major arterial road connecting the city centre to the outskirts and one of the most heavily cycled roads into the city; kerbside parking obstructs the construction of the cycle lanes we desperately need on this route if we are to meet climate change targets. We have had no response from the City Council to this well-argued letter written by one of our members.

GoBike will be responding to this public consultation but if you support our views do please write in to comment or object to the proposals.

1.10 **NEW** Glasgow, Carmunnock Road Service Road, TRO, One-Way with no, or perhaps with, contraflow, closes 14 February

The service road is a residential and shopping side road to the busy Carmunnock Road and at the Stage One consultation GoBike was told that “The Council have been made aware of road safety issues with the existing two-way traffic flow on Carmunnock Road (Service Road).  Therefore, a questionnaire was posted to the nearby residents to find out if they supported the introduction of a proposed one way system.  The results of the returned survey were 23 in favour of the proposals and 6 against.”
In its response, GoBike argued strongly that cycling must be exempt from the one-way order. Since receiving the Public Consultation email below, GoBike has emailed the City Council for an answer to the one-way question. However, we now note, from the Detailed Report issued with this public consultation that improved safety may be achieved by ” Providing a single directional route for vehicular travel.” Note the use of the word “vehicular”, which would not normally include cycles?

Here’s the Public Consultation email received on 17 January:

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

Dear Sir or Madam,

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (CARMUNNOCK ROAD (SERVICE ROAD)), (TRAFFIC REGULATION) ORDER 20__

Further to my consultation email of 6^th December 2019 regarding the above named Traffic Regulation Order, and in accordance with statutory procedures, I now enclose a copy of the press notice of the proposed Order, relevant map, statement of reasons, detailed report.

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

As stated in the attached documentation, any person wishing to object to the proposed Order should send details of the grounds for objection in writing to Kevin Hamilton, Head of Roads Neighbourhoods and Sustainability or by e-mail to land@glasgow.gov.uk by 14^th February 2020.

Yours faithfully” etc

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

1.11 Glasgow, Byres Road, Byres Road Traffic Management and Parking Controls, includes cycle lanes, closes 14 February

You may be aware that we responded last autumn to the Stage One consultation concerning the proposed cycle lanes on Byres Road and submitted detailed questions related to the design of the cycle lanes. A major concern is about side road junctions where, to us, it’s obvious that all traffic (motor, cycle, pedestrian) has priority over traffic into and out of side roads. Unfortunately, the City Council appears to take a different view.


We informed you in Digest 51 that the 3 TROs for Byres Road had just been published but full details from the City Council arrived just too late for inclusion in that Digest.

Here’s the email that we received on 06 January, with almost no detail of the cycle lane design:

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

Dear Sir or Madam,

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (BYRES ROAD) (TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT AND PARKING CONTROLS) ORDER 20_

Further to my consultation email of 28^th October 2019 regarding the above named Traffic Regulation Order, and in accordance with statutory procedures, I now enclose a copy of the press notice of the proposed Order, relevant map, statement of reasons, detailed report and FAQs.

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 Christine Francis, Head of Technical Services or by e-mail to ByresRoadTRO@glasgow.gov.uk by Friday 14 February 2020

Yours faithfully” etc

Here are the documents referred to: Press Advert, Plan, Report, Statement of Reasons and FAQs

Some of our members are busy writing our response and our concern at the lack of information on the cycle lane design has been voiced to the City Council.

1.12 Glasgow, Byres Road, 20mph Speed Limit Zone, closes 14 February

GoBike supports 20mph speed limits in our towns and cities and Byres Road is no exception. We supported this proposal at the Stage One consultation in the autumn and no doubt we will support it now.

Here’s the email we received on 06 January:

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

Dear Sir or Madam,

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, (BYRES ROAD) (20MPH SPEED LIMIT ZONE) ORDER 20_

Further to my consultation email of 28^th October 2019 regarding the above named Traffic Regulation Order, and in accordance with statutory procedures, I now enclose a copy of the press notice of the proposed Order, relevant map, statement of reasons, detailed report and FAQs.

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 Christine Francis, Head of Technical Services or by e-mail to ByresRoad20MPH@glasgow.gov.uk by Friday 14 February 2020

Yours faithfully” etc

Here are the documents referred to: Press Advert, Plan, Report, Statement of Reasons and FAQs.

The FAQs are certainly not directed at those of us keen on active travel; here’s one Q and A:
“Can I park / load in the cycle lanes?
 Parking / Loading from the cycle lanes is not permitted“
Yes, the motor driver is still seen as the main customer – the the FAQs are the same for all 3 TROs.

1.13 Glasgow, Byres Road, Hillhead Traffic Management and Parking Controls, closes 14 February

Car parking on the streets around Byres Road is not normally a major concern for most of us in GoBike, but if you live in Hillhead you might have a different view or particular concern about this proposal? If so, do email consultations@gobike.org and we can include it in our response.
Points we have noted so far include the introduction of a second car parking permit per household (why should that be introduced in a city that’s trying to reduce car ownership, reduce pollution and will be hosting COP26 in November?) and the ridiculously cheap parking charges (even if they are the same across the city). Surely parking charges should be at least the cost of a return ticket on the Subway or bus and not just 80p per hour?
Here’s the email received from the City Council on 06 January:

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

Dear Sir or Madam,

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL (HILLHEAD) (TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT AND PARKING CONTROLS) ORDER 20_

Further to my consultation email of 28^th October 2019 regarding the above named Traffic Regulation Order, and in accordance with statutory procedures, I now enclose a copy of the press notice of the proposed Order, relevant map, statement of reasons, detailed report and FAQs.

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 Christine Francis, Head of Technical Services or by e-mail to HillheadTRO@glasgow.gov.uk by Friday 14 February 2020

Yours faithfully” etc

The attached documents are here: Press Advert, Plan, Report, Statement of Reasons and FAQs.

This information was included in the Stage One email, but there is far more information within the Report:

“Background to the proposed Order
The proposal is to amend the existing Hillhead parking controls from a Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ) to a Restricted Parking Zone (RPZ).
RPZs are indicated by zone entry signs which have a no waiting roundel to inform that no waiting is permitted at any time outwith the bays. The zone entry signs tell you to “park only in signed bays” with a no waiting roundel which means no waiting at any time. This is the restriction which applies outwith all the marked bays.
This order will propose the conversion of “residents only” parking bays to “shared use” bays in order to bring the parking regime in Hillhead into line with other residential areas within the west-end. Whilst all bays will become “shared use”, residents will be able to acquire a second personal permit and visitor permits, fees will be in line with other zones. Permits will also be usable in adjacent zones. The order will also include proposals to pedestrianise Ashton Lane / Great George Lane with service access limited to specific times and controlled by drop-bollards. Residential access to the rear of Ashton Road will be maintained. Cresswell Lane will remain pedestrianised.“

The private car is still at the top of the transport tree, it seems.

1.14 **NEW** Scottish Government, Housing to 2040: consultation on outline policy options, closes 28 February

GoBike member, Emily, alerted us to this consultation, which has a question on “Do you have any proposals that would improve the space around our homes and promote connected places and vibrant communities?” and the ‘vision’ and background refer to lots of relevant stuff about connectivity, walking and cycling, vibrant local areas, climate emergency, air pollution, etc.

Here’s the link: https://www.gov.scot/publications/housing-2040-consultation-outline-policy-options/pages/3/

Do have a look and let’s get lots of responses in that mention cycling and active travel.

Section 2: Forthcoming Consultations

2.1 Glasgow, South West City Way, St Andrews Drive extension, consultation event TOMORROW, 22 January

Going hand in hand with Item 1.2 above, the on-line consultation on the SWCW extension along St Andrew’s Drive, is this public consultation event tomorrow, Wednesday 22 January at St Albert’s Primary School, 36 Maxwell Drive from 3:30 to 7pm. You may see details of the proposals at this link. Do try and get to the event if you can; there will be the opportunity to speak to the staff involved about the proposals.

2.2 Glasgow Avenues, Stockwell Street and Glassford Street Avenue, 25 January

Mentioned in Item 1.4 above, is this on-street, meet the people event:

“Drop-in to our on-street consultation: look out for out friendly rickshaw displays on Saturday 25^th January, where staff will be on hand to discuss the emerging design thinking and to record your opinion on the concept designs.“

We don’t have any more information but it should be quite easy to spot one or other of the 2 rickshaws that the consultants will have. If you are in the town, do look out for the displays; check out the area at the end of the Argyle Street precinct or the car park areas on Stockwell Street.

2.3 Glasgow, Transforming Pollok Country Park – Public Meeting, 04 February

On 17 January GoBike received this email from The Transforming Pollok Country Park Project Team within Glasgow Life:

“Hello,

Following previous consultation events, Glasgow City Council and Glasgow Life would like to invite you to a public meeting on the access proposals being developed for Pollok Country Park, as part of the Transforming Pollok Country Park project.

The purpose of this meeting is to share the proposals, summarise recent changes in response to feedback from previous consultations, and outline current progress ahead of a formal planning submission later in February 2020.

Transforming Pollok Country Park

Public Meeting

Tuesday 4 February, 6.30–7.45pm

at Pollokshaws Burgh Hall, Pollokshaws Road, G43 1NE

The meeting will include a presentation lasting up to 45 minutes followed by up to 30 minutes for questions.

We hope you can join us. If you’re unable to attend but would like to find out more, please email us at PollokCountryParkTransformation@glasgowlife.org.uk.

Kind regards,
The Transforming Pollok Country Park Project Team”

Section 3: Consultation Feedback

3.1 Glasgow, Fastlink Route, (Finnieston Bridge to Whitefield Road) Order 2015, Amendment No.1 20__, acknowledgement of GoBike objection

Our objection to the proposal to allow taxis and authorised vehicles to use the bus and cycle lanes on this bridge was published in Digest 50, Item 1.2 We received this acknowledgement on 07 January:

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

Dear Tricia Fort

THE GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL, FASTLINK ROUTE, (FINNIESTON BRIDGE TO WHITEFIELD ROAD) ORDER 2015, AMENDMENT No.1 20__

I am writing to confirm receipt of your correspondence regarding the above named Traffic Regulation Order. Following the publication period, officers shall commence an analysis of all correspondence received and issue you with a considered response in due course.

Please note that timescales for preparing and distributing a considered response can be influenced by the quantity and nature of correspondence received.

Yours faithfully” etc

Let’s hope they are rethinking the proposal, especially since it is so close to the site of the COP26 Conference in November.

3.2 Glasgow, Ashgill Road Traffic Calming, GCC response to our concerns.

This consultation was detailed in Digest 50, Item 3.10 Our letter, sent in on 18 December, raised concerns that the GCC response to speeding on this wide road in the north of the city was to yet again install speed cushions with no thought to narrowing the road with cycle lanes etc. Note that no Traffic Regulation Order is required for the installation of speed cushions. The City Council response to our letter, with this email of 08 January, is illuminating as to how the Council currently operates:

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

Dear Ms Fort

Thank you for your undernoted enquiry.

Whilst I appreciate your concerns regarding Ashgill Road not being included as part of the city’s cycle network, I can advise that this section is focused on reducing injury accidents throughout the city. The council has limited funding and resources available to implement traffic calming schemes and in order to make sure these resources are directed at the locations with the greatest potential for casualty reduction, a site risk assessment is undertaken for each request. This process assesses the location against criteria including the history of injury accidents, measured vehicle speeds and the presence of any local amenities such as being close to a nearby school or nursery

I can advise that the Local Transport Note for Traffic Calming (LTN 1/07), which gives guidance on the design, effectiveness and installation of traffic calming measures, states that “Distances between cushions, or cushions and the kerb, should not generally exceed 1200mm, with 1000mm as an ideal maximum. These dimensions are designed to deter drivers of small vehicles from attempting to drive in the gap.” The Local Transport Note also recommends a maximum spacing distance of 70 metres between each set of speed cushions, however, in this instance we would consider that the road bends at this location also act as traffic calming features.

Whilst I appreciate that drivers may accelerate and brake between each set of cushions, the Council are currently seeking to implement mandatory 20mph city-wide speed limit restrictions on appropriate roads. Should the restrictions be introduced, a reduction in the permitted speed limit would encourage drivers to maintain a reduced speed whilst negotiating speed cushions or any other form of traffic calming feature.

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

3.3 Glasgow, Duror Street, Traffic Calming, GCC response to our concerns

Again, this consultation was detailed in Digest 50, item 3.13 and we submitted this letter on 18 December. To reduce speeding by motor vehicles on this wide road in the east of the city it seems to be a reasonable suggestion to stop most through motor traffic with a filter to allow only buses (and emergency vehicles) and bikes through but here’s the reply that we received on 10 January. Note that the installation of speed cushions does not require a traffic regulation order and that a filter, of the type we propose, ie one with rising bollards or similar, would not prevent residents accessing either side of that filter:

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

Dear Ms Fort

Thank you for your undernoted enquiry.

I can advise that the introduction of a bus/cycle gate would require the Council to successfully promote a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO). The legal process of promoting a TRO is subject to formal consultation and public advertisement, is open to objection and can take in excess of 12 months to complete. The promotion of such an order also requires the support of emergency services and various other road user groups. It is highly likely that the introduction of a bus/cycle gate on Duror Street would lead to objections from local residents as they would be unable to park near to their properties. In view of the foregoing, there are no plans at present for a bus/cycle gate to be introduced at this location.

I can advise that the Local Transport Note for Traffic Calming (LTN 1/07), which gives guidance on the design, effectiveness and installation of traffic calming measures, states that “Distances between cushions, or cushions and the kerb, should not generally exceed 1200mm, with 1000mm as an ideal maximum. These dimensions are designed to deter drivers of small vehicles from attempting to drive in the gap.” The Local Transport Note also recommends a maximum spacing distance of 70 metres between each set of speed cushions and this recommendation has been adhered to in the design of this traffic calming proposal.

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

3.4 Glasgow, construction of Sighthill pedestrian/cycle bridge to start next month

GoBike has responded to several consultations about the regeneration of Sighthill, and some might remember that this was a favourite project of the one-time Cycling Czar Councillor Frank McAveety? Who’s he? Some newer GoBike members might ask. However, the Glasgow (Evening) Times reported on 11 January that construction of the bridge should start in February, be completed in August 2021 and cost £19m. See: https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/news/18153032.development-sighthill-bridge-cost-19m/?ref=ebln

3.5 Glasgow, Connecting Woodside Update, with news of the Woodside ‘Making Places’ project

If you don’t subscribe direct to the Connecting Woodside updates then you will have missed the free family fun event on Saturday but there is a new Facebook page about the Making Places project that is working in tandem with the active travel team. See this link and if you live in the area do get involved. If you would like to ask a question to the project team about this update or the project? Email sustainabletransport@glasgow.gov.uk.

3.6 Glasgow Avenues project, George Square and Blythswood Square.

News of the Avenues and these 2 squares and yet more consultation in today’s Herald newspaper; follow this link for the details. Let’s hope for the best that it happens.

3.7 East Dunbartonshire, Proposed Traffic Regulation Order – Killermont Avenue, Rannoch Drive and Woodvale Avenue, Bearsden – Waiting & Loading Restrictions, approved

The Traffic Regulation Order, which we supported, see Digest 45, Item 1.2, to limit parking in this area near the car showroom, has now been approved, and here’s the confirmation from East Dunbartonshire Council, received today, 21 January:

“Dear Sir/Madam

The Traffic Regulation Orders mentioned below has now been made and will become effective on Monday, 23 March 2020.

Attached are copies of the Order and plan, together with copy of the Notice that is to appear in the edition of the Milngavie and Bearsden Herald which is published on 24 January 2020.

Yours faithfully
Fiona Stirling
Legal Services, 12 Strathkelvin Place, Kirkintilloch, G66 1TJ
Telephone 0300 12345 10 (Ext 8012)

Note Referred to:- 1. The East Dunbartonshire Council (Killermont Avenue, Rannoch Drive And Woodvale Avenue, Bearsden) (No Waiting And No Loading At Any Time Restrictions) Order 2020.
(See attached file: 200121 Killermont, etc – Waiting Time Order 2020.pdf)“

Good to get something in from outwith the city, but we do hope to get more positive news in before COP26, which will be upon us before we know it.