Issue - meetings

            The Board considered a report of the Strategic Director – Economy, Community and Resources, which advised on a petition received from the residents of Halebank, requesting the amalgamation of bus stops in the Halebank area with a view to removing two bus stops located on Hale Road. The petition had been signed by 152 residents.

            The petition suggested that by removing two bus stops and the 82a service calling at an alternative bus stop at Pickerings Road terminus would be more beneficial for passengers and improve traffic flow in the area. However, removing the bus stops would increase the number of road crossings for passengers. In addition the bus operator had also expressed concern that removing the bus stops would increase the turning manoeuvres accessing and egressing the proposed alternative bus stop at Pickerings Road. There was also concern that journeys may be delayed especially in the peak periods. The operator had indicated that they had not experienced any issues whilst observing the two bus stops and would be opposed to the removal. Also if the operator chose not to service the proposed alternative bus stop in the petition this would result in passengers having to walk a greater distance to the bus stops at Foundary Lane.

            It was noted that the bus stops had been in place in the current location for a significant number of years with no incidents or issues reported.

            The Board also considered a statement from Mr Maxwell on behalf of Halebank Parish Council, in support of the petition. The statement had been emailed to Board members prior to the meeting.

            RESOLVED: That

1)    the petition be noted;

2)    following consideration of the request in the petition to remove the two bus stops on Hale Road and also consideration of the concerns of the bus operator and that the operator is opposed to their removal, the Board agreed that the bus stops should remain in place and operational; and

3)    the local Ward members be informed of the outcome of the Board’s consideration of the petition.