Issue - meetings

Feedback on proposed S106 Area Corridor Schemes, to inform a decision on which schemes should be recommended to the County Councils Committee.

The Capital and Funding Manager introduced the item as per the agenda.

1.           Martin Lucas-Smith stated that the Eastern Gate encompassed a lot of work. He asked if the Newmarket Road / Elizabeth Way roundabout could be given priority.

Councillor Johnson confirmed that an Eastern Gate framework was being developed. A feasibility study was planned to establish what could be achieved.

Councillor Herbert asked for detailed information on deadlines. He requested a clear set of expected completions dates for the delivery of projects already in the pipeline.

Councillor Roberts asked for an update on the Chisholm Bridge. A previous meeting of the Committee had sent a request to the North Area Committee for a contribution. Councillor Blencowe undertook to raise this matter and the next Area Chairs meeting.

Action Councillor Blencowe

Councillor Owers requested an update on the Leisure Park link bridge. The Capital and Funding Manager confirmed that this had been delayed by legal difficulties.

Councillor Smart suggested that Sainbury’s be approached for a contribution towards the trial of an orbital bus route from the Marshall’s site to Addenbrooke’s Hospital. Concerns were raised that the proposed new bus route would impact on the existing 114 services. Councillor Bourke was concerned that this bus route, which serves vulnerable communities, might suffer cuts. However, other members suggested there was room for both services and that Abbey residents had raised a 1,000 signature petition in support of a direct route to the hospital.

Further details were requested on the entrance to Stourbridge Common proposals and the high figure suggested for this was questioned. The Capital and Funding Manager confirmed that the any underspend on the project would be returned to the pot for reallocation.

The timetable for delivery of an extension to the Tenison Road scheme was questioned. Officers confirmed that Tenison Road was to be regarded as a design template that could be replicated quickly in surrounding areas.

2.           Hester Wells stated that given that the consultation on the first stage of Tenison Road had yet to open it was too soon to consider funding extensions to the project.

The Committee noted her comments.

Councillor Bourke asked if Eastern Corridor funding could be used for projects in Mill Road. Officers confirmed that this would be possible. The Capital and Funding Manager suggested that a meeting be arranged with members to discuss proposals. In addition, a budget allocation would be needed to allow scoping work and feasibility studies of any proposals to be completed.

Councillor Herbert reminded the Committee that additional funding might also be forthcoming from the City Deal.

Resolved (unanimously)

The following four projects were approved from existing budgets:

5.1 Entrance to Stourbridge Common (£50,000)

5.2 Chisholm Trail (Bridge) (£50,000)

5.4 Bus Service from Newmarket Park and Ride to Addenbrooke’s Hospital (£95,000) (subject to negotiations with Marshall’s)

Funding to allow scoping work of Mill Road Projects (£20,000)

The following project was earmarked for approval in the future when funding becomes available.

5.3 Additional funding for Tenison Road (£500,000)