To: Maidstone Joint Transportation Board
By: Tim Read, Head of Transportation
Date: 23rd January 2013
Subject: Queens Road, Maidstone – Parking Restrictions
Classification: For Decision
Summary: To inform Members of a proposed Traffic Regulation Order to implement parking restrictions around St Francis RC school entrance to address parking issues. To seek endorsement from members to install part of the proposals only.
- Introduction
As part of the 20mph advisory speed limit scheme in Queens Road, it was proposed to install parking restrictions to eradicate on-street parking in and around the entrance to St Francis School. It was identified that many parents tend to park on-street during school peak hours causing congestion for through traffic.
In response to local concerns, the County Members Mr Daley and Mr Robertson agreed to fund this request as part of the 20mph advisory speed limit trial. The advisory speed limit of 20mph has now been installed and is operational at this site. The existing speed limit outside of school hours is 30mph.
A public notice of intention to implement parking restrictions on Queens Road was published in October 2012. The notice requested comments and objections be made to the Highway Authority by 29th October 2012 for consideration. Details of these proposals can be seen in the drawings attached to Appendix 1 of this report.
The reasons stated for the restrictions were as follows:-
1) Avoiding danger to persons or other traffic using the road
2) Preserving the character of the road especially suitable for walking
3) Results of the Consultation carried out for the trail advisory 20mph speed limit
Notices were erected on-site identifying the proposals asking for comments during the consultation period.
- Discussion
Summary of consultation responses
|
Summary of Results |
|
|
|
|
Support |
Object |
|
Proposed Parking Restrictions |
1 |
11 |
|
Total |
1 |
11 |
Responses in support of the scheme felt that the proposals would improve highway safety for pedestrians. Responses objecting to the scheme were concerned that the removal of parking would increase the speeds of through traffic.
No recorded personal injury crashes have been recorded at this location in the last three years. The Highway Authority can not state that the proposals will statistically improve road safety in the area.
The environmental impact of parking restrictions will result in carriageway markings being installed on the road (see attached drawing).
The installation of the proposals as shown on the attached drawings may result in an increase in speed of through traffic.
Parking in close proximity to the school entrance, results in obstruction of visibility for traffic exiting the school site. Installation of the corner protection element of the proposals would mitigate this.
- Summary
- The majority of responses received to the consultation on the implementation of the parking restrictions object to the proposals.
- Members are asked to endorse the installation of corner protection only.
______________________________________________________________
Appendices: Drawings of Proposals
Contact officer: Ben Hilden
Tel: 08458 247800
Appendix 1 – Drawings of Proposals
