Oldham Council is updating residents around what will happen next after two important consultations finished.
Active Neighbourhood in Chadderton North and Westwood
Over the last few weeks, we’ve been asking people to give us their views on plans for an Active Neighbourhood in Chadderton North and Westwood, as creating better and safer neighbourhoods is a priority for the council.
A number of residents had been in touch, concerned about the number of vehicles on the roads and congestion levels, especially as a number of primary schools are in the area.
Active Neighbourhoods look to create safer, quieter, and more attractive areas so residents have places where they can spend time with their family, friends and neighbours.
At four drop-in sessions the council held there was significant opposition to some elements of the proposals, in particular, the bus gates - a short section of road blocked off to all traffic except buses, cycles and taxis.
All the completed online and postal surveys are now being analysed by an independent research company.
A report, which will take into account written and verbal feedback, will then be prepared and shared. This is expected by the end of the year.
Councillor Amanda Chadderton, Leader of Oldham Council, said: “We’d like to thank everyone who took part in the consultation.
“We know proposals like the ones in the consultation attract strong opinions, and rightly so because they impact people’s everyday lives.
“But from the outset we have been very clear – these were proposals, and they weren’t set in stone.
“We have been listening and we will take everyone’s views on board. If the majority of responses to the consultation reflect the views shared at the meetings, then unpopular elements of the project will need to be taken out.
“We’ll continue to work with the community to develop a scheme that can benefit the area by reducing traffic levels, improving road safety and making it easier for pedestrians and cyclists to get about, in line with the funding criteria for Active Neighbourhoods.”
Moving Traffic Offences (MTOs)
We also sought views on proposals to stop inconsiderate drivers at six sites across the borough.
The proposals follow a change in legislation which allows local authorities to adopt the enforcement of Moving Traffic Offences (MTOs), such as blocking yellow boxes and banned turns.
Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras will be used to detect motorists not complying with the restrictions. For the first six months of the restrictions, first-time offenders would receive warning letters and if a second offence occurs, a £70 fine is issued. These fines would be reduced to £35 if paid within 14 days of the offence.
The main objectives are to improve road safety, reduce congestion and improve air quality in the borough. Any income from fines will be used to pay for the costs of enforcement; to improve public transport; to pay for highway improvement projects; and to pay for environmental improvements in the borough.
A report is being prepared for decision and a full scheme could come into effect in summer next year.