Issue - items at meetings - Pedestrian Network - Phase 2

Report of the Director of Environment (copy attached).

(1)      That the Cabinet Member gives approval for officers to conduct public consultation with key stakeholders and residents on the Walking Network proposals detailed in this report. Members will be informed of the outcome of consultation and permission to proceed with the scheme will be sought at a future Environment Cabinet Member Meeting following public consultation.

66.1       The Cabinet Member considered a report of the Director of Environment concerning the proposed consultation on the Walking Network capital programme works (for copy see minute book).

66.2       The Cabinet Member stated that the proposals were designed to improve access to the seafront, arguably the city’s largest asset and attraction.  Secondly, they would enhance the appearance of areas which had become tired and worn. The first phase of the Walking Network scheme sought to enhance existing pedestrian links between some of the busiest parts of central Brighton & Hove.  It would increase accessibility and pedestrian movement between key destinations in the city. City centre retail, restaurant, beachfront and cultural establishments were key to Brighton & Hove’s economy and the works would contribute to the economic vitality of the city by improving access and movement for its visitors, workers and shoppers.

66.3       Councillor Mitchell welcomed the opportunity for the spotlight to be on walking and asked that new signage be considered in addition to addressing the issue of pavement surface quality in some areas of the city.

66.4       The Assistant Director for Sustainable Transport commented that gas and water board works in the city had had an effect on pavements, but that the council would continue to monitor these areas.

66.5       The Director of Environment added that any benefits of introducing new signage would be considered against the success of the Journey On campaign and branding.

66.6       RESOLVED – That having considered the information and the reasons set out in the report, the Cabinet Member accepted the following recommendation:

(1)       That officers be authorised to conduct public consultation with key stakeholders and residents on the Walking Network proposals detailed in this report. Members will be informed of the outcome of consultation and permission to proceed with the scheme will be sought at a future Environment Cabinet Member Meeting following public consultation.