Agenda item

Ongoing feedback and consideration of how the scheme is working on the ground

Members considered the current status of the scheme, LAF comments made and feedback received from the SBC Transport team in papers tabled.  Over the last three months LAF members have been sent design drawings for the various sections of the scheme and all subsequent LAF comments have been forwarded to relevant Transport Officers.

At this point members were able to reflect on the feedback received from the Transport team.  IH made it clear it was not a split level segregated path he’d asked for.  He also thought that a shared use environment was not necessary in a situation with a secondary school in opposition to the Transport team’s view.  However, members generally agreed they were happy with the physical layout of the scheme in terms of walking and cycling; though there was a concern that people might go wrong in the one-way system.  AD pointed out that this problem would probably be eased when the scheme is complete with all signage in place. JW informed members that the scheme is due to be complete by mid January 2012. 

[NB: Information received after the meeting: the scheme is now due to complete by end of Feb 2012]

KW highlighted the reliance of the older population on buses and the resulting isolation felt if the Bus Company decides to alter bus routes without considering of the needs of older people.  He also raised concerns felt by older people about the new Slough Bus Station being uncomfortable and cold for users; bringing the design into question.  He told members there is due to be a special meeting of the Older People’s forum in late January to talk specifically about problems with travel and the new Bus Station. 

DM added that it is a LAF concern if buses are not serving all sections of the community, going where they’re needed.  The tendency seems to be for services structured around employment patterns. Problems with the bus schedules/routes and the bus station both have the potential to reduce overall accessibility, discouraging use of public transport.

AD stated that the council is aware of the problems being experienced with the new Bus Station. 

Resolved –

a)  KW will bring details of the Older Peoples’ forum meeting to the next meeting.  This issue will continue to be followed.