Issue - items at meetings - Item 84 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 Phase 2 of the Pedestrian 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.

84.1       The Cabinet Member considered a report of the Director of Environment the proposed consultation on the second phase of the Pedestrian Network capital programme works (for copy see minute book).

84.2       The Cabinet Member explained that the proposals were designed to improve access to the seafront and enhance the appearance of an area with undeveloped potential which had become tired and worn; the second phase of the pedestrian network scheme sought to create a legible pedestrian route along East Street, connecting The Lanes and the seafront. He added that city centre retail, restaurant, beachfront and cultural establishments were key to Brighton and Hove’s economy, and that the proposed works would contribute to the economic vitality of the city by improving access and movement for visitors, workers and shoppers.

84.3       Councillor Rufus welcomed the proposed improvements and sought assurance that the proposal to change traffic access from Kings Road on to East Street would not mean that access for cyclists would also be lost.

84.4       The Assistant Director for Sustainable Transport confirmed that the proposal preserved the cycle route, but that all proposals would be subject to safety audits.

84.5       The Cabinet Member added that it was important to await the results of the consultation before making decisions on the best options for both cyclists and pedestrians.

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

(1)   That approval be given for officers to conduct public consultation with key stakeholders and residents on Phase 2 of the Pedestrian 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.