Agenda item

5.1

The Executive Director, Place submitted a report seeking Cabinet Member approval to implement the scheme to signalise the junction of Birley Moor Road and Occupation Lane as part of the Mosborough Key Bus Route works.

5.2

RESOLVED: That the scheme be implemented in 2013/14 including the placement of traffic signs using the Department for Transport’s Better Bus Area Fund Provision.

5.3

Reasons for Decision

5.3.1

The scheme is part of the Mosborough Key Bus Route – the 120 bus route – which is one of the best-used high frequency public transport services in the City. The Key Route contributes to the City Council’s objectives of improving socially-inclusive access to jobs; improving access to mainstream public transport service for all; and improving public transport in order to increase its usage. It aims to make bus journeys on this main route quicker and more reliable through infrastructure improvements and improving network management and enforceability at critical locations. At this location, it was felt that the significant benefits to bus journey times and reliability on this high frequency service make it worth doing and that there is adequate mitigation.

5.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

5.4.1

Two other options were considered. One was to signalise the existing junction, incorporating the existing pedestrian crossing, without any mitigation for main road traffic other than signal technology (MOVA). This was cheaper than the budget estimate for the preferred option. However, it exacerbated existing delays and causes additional queues all round. (Cost estimate £164k, excluding Commuted Sum).

5.4.2

The other option considered was to signalise the existing junction, incorporating the existing pedestrian crossing, and provide a near-side passing space (i.e widen the carriageway) so that straight-ahead traffic inbound on Birley Moor Road could pass right-turning traffic. (Cost estimate £199k, excluding Commuted Sum). This option was only developed because the preferred option initially affected more SU equipment and was more costly. However, the preferred scheme cost has been reduced through amending the design but retaining the right-turn pocket.

5.4.3

The three options have been modelled by AMEY in respect of the impact on delay, queue length and reserve capacity at morning peak, evening peak and pedestrian crossing time (after school).It is considered that the preferred option is the best all-round option for signalising the junction, having the least impact on main road traffic.

5.4.4

The other alternative option would be to do nothing. However, it is felt that the significant benefits to bus journey times and reliability on this high frequency service make it worth doing and that there is adequate mitigation.

5.5

Any Interest Declared or Dispensation Granted

None

5.6

Reason for Exemption if Public/Press Excluded During Consideration

None

5.7

Respective Director Responsible for Implementation

Simon Green, Executive Director, Place

5.8

Relevant Scrutiny and Policy Development Committee If Decision Called In

Economic and Environmental Wellbeing

5.1

The Executive Director, Place submitted a report seeking Cabinet Member approval to implement the scheme to signalise the junction of Birley Moor Road and Occupation Lane as part of the Mosborough Key Bus Route works.

5.2

RESOLVED: That the design be approved and the scheme be implemented in 2013/14 including the placement of traffic signs using the Department for Transport’s Better Bus Area Fund Provision.

5.3

Reasons for Decision

5.3.1

The scheme is part of the Mosborough Key Bus Route – the 120 bus route – which is one of the best-used high frequency public transport services in the City. The Key Route contributes to the City Council’s objectives of improving socially-inclusive access to jobs; improving access to mainstream public transport service for all; and improving public transport in order to increase its usage. It aims to make bus journeys on this main route quicker and more reliable through infrastructure improvements and improving network management and enforceability at critical locations. At this location, it was felt that the significant benefits to bus journey times and reliability on this high frequency service make it worth doing and that there is adequate mitigation.

5.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

5.4.1

Two other options were considered. One was to signalise the existing junction, incorporating the existing pedestrian crossing, without any mitigation for main road traffic other than signal technology (MOVA). This was cheaper than the budget estimate for the preferred option. However, it exacerbated existing delays and causes additional queues all round. (Cost estimate £164k, excluding Commuted Sum).

5.4.2

The other option considered was to signalise the existing junction, incorporating the existing pedestrian crossing, and provide a near-side passing space (i.e widen the carriageway) so that straight-ahead traffic inbound on Birley Moor Road could pass right-turning traffic. (Cost estimate £199k, excluding Commuted Sum). This option was only developed because the preferred option initially affected more SU equipment and was more costly. However, the preferred scheme cost has been reduced through amending the design but retaining the right-turn pocket.

5.4.3

The three options have been modelled by AMEY in respect of the impact on delay, queue length and reserve capacity at morning peak, evening peak and pedestrian crossing time (after school).It is considered that the preferred option is the best all-round option for signalising the junction, having the least impact on main road traffic.

5.4.4

The other alternative option would be to do nothing. However, it is felt that the significant benefits to bus journey times and reliability on this high frequency service make it worth doing and that there is adequate mitigation.

5.5

Any Interest Declared or Dispensation Granted

None

5.6

Reason for Exemption if Public/Press Excluded During Consideration

None

5.7

Respective Director Responsible for Implementation

Simon Green, Executive Director, Place

5.8

Relevant Scrutiny and Policy Development Committee If Decision Called In

Economic and Environmental Wellbeing