Agenda item

The Committee considered a report of the Corporate Director of Regeneration and Local Services regarding changes to parking and waiting restrictions in Ferryhill following a review of current restrictions and proposed amendments put forward (for copy see file of Minutes).

The Committee were informed that Ferryhill Town Council had submitted an official petition of 497 signatures requesting that consideration be given to the creation of a 24 hour taxi rank area within the town.

The review of the existing traffic regulation order also gave consideration of amendments to address obstructive parking on Sadler Street, town centre taxi provision and loading facilities on Darlington Road.

Further amendments to the scheme were made following the initial consultation with affected frontages and all statutory stakeholders which resulted in a formal set of proposals being advertised on 13 August 2018.

A number of objections had been received. The objections were summarised within the report and had been addressed. One objector who owned a business adjacent to the proposed taxi restrictions felt that the restriction should also permit loading/unloading by local business owners. The Strategic Traffic Manager informed the Committee that there was an existing loading only area (6am – 6pm) approximately 20 metres from the objector’s premises.

A suggestion to consider the possibility of permitting loading from the taxi area was investigated, however, it was found not to be feasible in this instance.

Another objector, a business owner on Parker Terrace (Darlington Road) felt that the introduction of a loading bay at the location was arbitrary and unnecessary. They commented that the restriction would actually restrict access to the businesses in the affected area. In response, the Strategic Traffic Manager informed the Committee that the request was for the restriction originated from another business in the area as they were struggling to load and unload heavy stock to their premises. Under the circumstances it was considered that the proposed loading bay would be well used and a useful addition.

In terms of the taxi rank people were able to park on the taxi rank on a night but not during the day. The Town Council were of the view that there was ample opportunity for people to park elsewhere during an evening and that taxi provision should be provided for, therefore it was felt appropriate to have taxis available on the rank 24 hours.

Councillor J Shuttleworth informed the Committee that he had spoken to both local members, Councillors Avery and Makepeace who were in agreement with all of the proposals and moved the recommendation. Councillor A Gardner seconded the recommendation.

Resolved

That the Committee endorse the proposal and proceed with the implementation of the Ferryhill Waiting and Parking Restrictions Order 2018, with the final decision to be made by the Corporate Director of Regeneration and Local Services under delegated powers.