Issue - meetings

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

Aled Williams – Environmental Protection Manager introduced the report and gave a presentation on ‘National Air Quality Plan – Strategic Outline Case’ which covered the following:

·  Progress So Far

·  The Project Team

·  Engagement

·  Web Presence

·  Key Stakeholders

·  Key Questions

·  Current Work

·  Next Steps

·  Get Involved

Officers made a plea to Councillors to engage with the project with any concerns or comments.

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

Councillor Hale asked if modelling was being done on capacity regarding Park and Rides and buses. The officer stated that all aspects are being considered and explained that the ANPR data showed the type and age of vehicles.

Councillor Samuel encouraged officers to look at how the Clean Air Zone could overlap with residents parking zones. The officer explained that this would need to be reviewed, possibly so that there would be lower charges for residents.

Councillor Samuel asked if rat runs were being considered (for example the East of Bath to the RUH). The officer explained that potential rat runs and non-charging measures are being looked at. Becky Lloyd (Jacobs) explained that there could be a switch where the rat runs become busier than the main route, there may be equilibrium. 

Councillor Samuel asked how the choice of the type of zone would be made and would cars be included and if so how would modelling lead to that recommendation. Becky Lloyd (Jacobs) explained that a charging zone decision is primarily based on modelling but this is not fool proof and you had to make the best decision based on the evidence. Councillor Samuel asked that, if the cost benefit analysis came up with two options, would it be a political choice. Becky (Jacobs) explained that traditional approaches would then be used.

The Chairman asked for a further update report to the Panel before going to the Cabinet.