Decision - Preston Road junction improvements

(1)         That the consultation results, which indicate an overall support for the scheme as consulted, be noted.

This report informs the Cabinet Member for Environment of the results of the consultation exercise carried out for Preston Road junction improvements.  The results indicate a majority support for the proposals and it is therefore recommended that Cabinet grant permission to formally advertise any TROs required and proceed to construction of the junction improvements.   Should any objections to the TRO elements of the improvement be received then Members will be informed of the nature of these at a future Cabinet Meeting.

The Preston Road junction improvement area provides a key link in the cycle network for National Cycle Route (NCR) 20 and the recently improved cycle facilities on the A23 reaching the city boundary.  Of particular note are the high figures of cycle users counted near the viaduct each day, on average 1200 cycles per day.  It should therefore be considered as a priority area for improvements.  There are currently no viable alternative options that would provide such a direct and continuous link to the city centre.