Road Safety and Traffic Issues at Borden Meadowlands

A meeting was held on 02/09/05 to try and resolve the on-going issues on our development. The meeting was attended by David Barton (KCC division of the Highways Dept.), Derek Wyatt (MP), Councillor Brian Woodland, Shaun Delooze, Mark Chapman, Paul Avron Cotton and Alan Carter an invitation was extended to Bloor Homes but this was declined...

At this meeting the B.M.R.A raised several issues relating to layout and safety of the roads on the development which are covered under a section 38 agreement. The K.C.C stated that their is a phase 2 agreement (of the section 38) in place (from December 2004) - which means that the developer has fulfilled it's planning obligations to the highways agency. Phase 3 of the Section 38 Agreement is scheduled for December 2005, when the K.C.C. are expecting to adopt the highways. Prior to that adoption, the KCC will need to be satisfied of their condition by inspection and an Independent Safety Audit.

Unfortunately, no-one is able to lobby or influence the “independent” audit. However, representations can be made after the event. David Barton offered to make a copy of the Safety Audit report available to the BMRA and then pass any concerns to the Auditor, if necessary at the appropriate time (after the audit).

The B.M.R.A members present were dissatisfied with the prospect of a Safety Audit reaching the same incorrect conclusion as countless experienced designers, planners and “experts” before them. We also questioned the wisdom of omitting the practical everyday experience and concerns of the residents to that audit until after it had reached a conclusion.

In view of the short time scale to phase 3 in December 2005, David Barton agreed to make enquiries relating to the prospect of an early Safety Audit. This would give the committee and residents sufficient time to make representations to the appropriate body prior to phase 3 completion and adoption by the K.C.C.

Thank you to all residents who have helped bring these issues to our attention.