Decision details

To consider nine objections and seven of support/comments in connection with the proposed Prohibition of Motor Vehicle Orders affecting part of Easton Lane and Byway 108, Chippenham (see Appendix 2).

I approve that:

(i)             The proposal for Easton Lane (TRO 1) be implemented as advertised.

(ii)            The proposal for Byway 108 (TRO 2) be implemented as advertised.

This decision was published on  Friday 30 July 2021 and will come into force on Monday 9 August 2021.

The introduction of a Prohibition of Motor Vehicles Order is to legally enforce the closure of a section of Easton Lane to vehicles (except cyclists) removing ‘through’ traffic on the section where residential development is taking place to the south (Hunters Moon). This is to create a safer environment for existing pedestrians and cyclists using this part of Easton Lane, as well as for new pedestrian/cycle trips arising from residents within the surrounding new development.  Byway 108, which connects Easton Lane with Methuen Park to the NE of the proposed restriction in Easton Lane, was also advertised with a proposed Prohibition of Motor Vehicles Order. This is proposed for similar reasons to Easton Lane but, in addition, to prevent Byway 108 being used as a convenient short-cut by drivers to avoid the closed part of Easton Lane.  Excess vehicle usage of this Byway, which is otherwise likely to occur, would be detrimental to the highway safety and amenity of existing non-motorised users.

It should be noted that the changes to which these Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) relate form no part of the wider Tranche 2 ‘active travel’ measures proposed for Easton Lane for which consultation started on 24 June and is due to finish on 18 July 2021. This wider scheme, as currently indicated, would see the prohibition of motor vehicles on Easton Lane at the bridge over the A350, removing through traffic and creating a light traffic route, before linking with the Wiltshire Cycleway. As such, it would have a potentially greater impact in removing the vehicle route along Easton Lane between the Easton Road junction and Methuen Park. This is important to note in considering the nature of some of the objections listed in Appendix 2, which appear to be directed more at this rather than the specific changes linked to these TROs.

To:

(i)             Implement the proposals as advertised.

(ii)            Not implement the proposals.

(iii)       Implement the proposals with amendments.

Consultations have been undertaken with the Fire Service, Police and Ambulance Service and also with the relevant bus companies, the Town Council and the Local Member.  Advertisements have been posted in the local press and notices were posted in prominent positions at the site (see Appendix 1).