To receive a report regarding the outcome of the Jeans Way bus stop consultation.

The Principal Highways Officer delivered a report on the outcomes of a public consultation to a proposed bus stop in Jean’s Way Dunstable. There were some public concerns regarding the proposal but these would be mitigated before the commencement of work. Overall the response had been positive, with over 70% of respondents in favour.

In response to queries the Executive Member for Regeneration explained that the Luton to Dunstable busway was a rapid transport system, which travelled to specific destinations. As Tesco was a not a specific destination for the busway, it had been decided to erect the bus stop at the most appropriate alternative location, Jean’s Way having been identified as such.

A Member of the Committee expressed concerns regarding the results of the consultation as a high percentage stated that they didn’t currently use the busway. Concerns were also raised over the issue of parking and the measures in place to address this. In response the Principal Highways Officer explained that the measures to address parking concerns were currently under consideration. It was anticipated that a high percentage of those respondents who stated that they did not currently use the busway would do so once the stop was in place.

A Member also queried whether the hospital was a destination for the busway. It was confirmed that although the nearest stop was 700 metres away from the hospital the service would provide hospital workers with reliable transport, reduce the use of cars and improve the problems experienced with parking in the area. Patients wanting to use a service which would take them directly to the hospital could utilise any number of other buses which would take them ‘door to door’.

RECOMMENDED:-

1.         That the Committee acknowledge the positive result of the recent public consultation and support the construction of a new bus stop at Jeans Way in Dunstable;

2.         That specific details with regards to parking provision be provided to the Committee in October 2015.