Agenda item

The Policy Insight Analyst introduced a report which detailed the progress of implementation of the recommendations of the disability Task and Finish Group.

The Team Leader for Parking updated the Panel on the changes in the High Street / High Street West in relation to disabled parking bays, explaining that larger accessible bays had been implemented and a time restriction imposed on the bays outside of Landmark Place. Additional disabled bays had been also been identified for Farnham Road and Upton Lea Parade. Referring specifically to reviewing recently installed crossing points to consider where double yellow lines might be effective, it was explained that all new junction improvements / modifications delivered in the last 18 months had been considered in relation to obstructions prior to implementation. It was brought to Members attention that a process was now in place to ensure that the parking team were consulted about any new locations.

A Member enquired whether the lifts in Herschel car park had been repaired and was informed that both the lifts in the car park that were now fully functioning.  

The issue of parking on pavements and pavement obstruction was raised and whether this had been exacerbated with the current pandemic and a greater number of people working from home.  The Team Leader, Parking stated that there had not been an increase in complaints specifically regarding pavement parking.

Following discussion in relation to the process of acquiring a disabled bay and subsequent procedure in removing it when no longer required, it was agreed that the Team leader would provide information to the Member concerned following the meeting.  

Speaking under Rule 30, Councillor Strutton raised a number of issues including concern about the ad hoc approach in relation to disabled bays in social and private housing developments.  Officers agreed to raise the matter with the housing team with a view to advising them to adopt a more holistic approach on both social/ private housing developments regarding the installation of disabled bays. 

Resolved –  That the progress on the implementation of the recommendations of the disability task and finish group be noted.