Issue - meetings

Executive Board considered the attached report.

RECOMMENDED: That Council approve a variation to the Capital Programme to cover the costs as outlined in Section 5.3 of the report.

The Council considered a report of the Strategic Director, Enterprise, Community and Resources, on options for delivering the de-linking of the Silver Jubilee Bridge in Runcorn.

RESOLVED: That a variation to the Capital Programme to cover the costs as outlined in Section 5.3 of the report, be approved.

The Board considered a report of the Strategic Director, Enterprise, Community and Resources, on options for the delivery of the de-linking of the Silver Jubilee Bridge (SJB) in Runcorn and the allocation of associated financial resources.

The opening of the new Mersey Gateway Bridge and temporary closure of the SJB provided a unique opportunity to redefine the existing road infrastructure in the area of the town close to Runcorn main-line station. It was reported that changes to the road layout and removal of certain structures would improve the visibility of the town centre and its connectivity to and from Runcorn Station. It would also make it easier to create and release sites for future development.

Members noted that the Council had commissioned a de-linking report setting out two key options for promoting positive access and movement to the SJB, the Expressway and the Station Quarter. After consideration of the de-linking report, a preferred option had been identified, based on the assessment of costs, technical feasibility and future proofing of the development.

Reason(s) for Decision

To unlock sites for development in and around the Runcorn Station Quarter.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected

The options considered and rejected were outlined in section 5 of the report.

Implementation Date

March 2018.

RESOLVED: That

1)    the development of the option as outlined in Section 5.2 of the report be agreed;

2)    Full Council be recommended to approve a variation to the Capital Programme to cover the costs as outlined in Section 5.3 of the report; and

3)    the Strategic Director, Enterprise, Community and Resources be authorised, in conjunction with the Portfolio holders for Physical Environment and Transportation, to take the necessary steps to ensure value for money through the appropriate procurement processes.