Issue - meetings

There will be a presentation on this item at the meeting.

Chris Major, Group Manager Transport and Parking, gave a presentation to the Panel on ‘Getting from A to B – Strategic Transport Review’ which covered the following:

·  Outline of briefing

·  Overview

·  Review – Changes to application processes

·  HTST pass scanning pilot

·  HTST – Hazardous routes review

·  On-line self-assessment tool

·  Review of current hazardous classifications

·  Hazardous Routes improvements

·  School Travel Planning

·  SEND Personal budgets

·  Review – Fleet utilisation and back office

·  Review – Partnership working

·  Next Steps

Panel members made the following points and asked the following questions:

Councillor Butters gave an example in Shoscombe where there was a proposal for a footpath. He asked if there is a compulsory power where child safety is concerned. The officer stated that work with the community is needed and sometimes alternative routes can be used. The officer confirmed that he is happy to look at the scheme in Shoscombe and will be in contact with Councillor Butters.

Councillor Samuel asked that, where transport is withdrawn, do parents switch to using cars. The officer stated that the changes are only being made now but it may happen that some use cars, it is about a package and if routes can be improved, other children will benefit.

Councillor Butters stated that there had been a huge mark up in the travel costs from Wellow to Ralph Allen School and that some people were now driving students to school. The officer stated that the fee may have risen in line with other authorities. In response to a query from Councillor Appleyard, the officer explained that he tries to use the least amount of vehicles and does sell empty seats.

Councillor Evans stated that excellent work had been done and asks where savings accrue. The officer explained that savings are recorded as part of the Strategic Review budget.

The Chairman thanked the officer and asked for another report back to the Panel in January 2018.