Issue - meetings

To receive a progress report on the proposed closure of all crossing points on the East Coast Main Line throughout Huntingdonshire.

Notes the work undertaken to date and the proposed improvements the scheme would deliver to the rail network including the removal of all crossing points whilst providing alternative access for vehicular, pedestrian, cyclist and equestrian traffic.

Welcomes the investment in infrastructure.  However, notes that investment is lacking in terms of rail infrastructure in this part of the country.

Supports the proposed scheme as detailed in Appendix B of the officer’s report, including the revision detailed in Appendix C of the officer’s report, leading to the submission of a Transport and Works Act application.

The Cabinet received a progress report (a copy of which is appended in the Minute Book) regarding the proposed closure of all crossing points on the East Coast Main Line throughout Huntingdonshire.  A total closure of 73 level crossings between London Kings Cross and Doncaster were proposed.

The purpose of the work being undertaken by Network Rail is part of an ongoing commitment to deliver a safer, more efficient and   reliable railway.

As a result of local representations a draft revised plan for the Offords was proposed and tabled at the Overview and Scrutiny Panel (Environmental Well-Being) meeting held on 10th March 2015, which involved re-siting the roundabout to the north of the village further away from residential properties. 

In order to progress the project Network Rail will be required to submit a Transport and Works Act Order in the future.

There was agreement amongst the Cabinet that Network Rail had endeavoured to undertake public consultation to establish local needs and that the proposed improvements would benefit both passengers and motorists.  Cllr Howe noted that he had attended at least three Parish Council Meetings where Network Rail had been in attendance.

The concerns expressed by the Overview and Scrutiny Panel (Environmental Well-Being) regarding the closure of level crossings could lead to increased road traffic were highlighted and it was noted that these concerns had been dispelled at the Panel meeting.

The Cabinet expressed full support for the investment in infrastructure.  However, it was noted that there remained an investment deficit in infrastructure, particularly to the rail network in this part of the country, which the Cabinet requested be included in the resolution.  It was further noted that widening of the Hatfield Viaduct was an essential improvement to the rail network and the Cabinet urged East Coast Main Line to swiftly resolve the issue.

RESOLVED:

That the Cabinet:

Notes the work undertaken to date and the proposed improvements the scheme would deliver to the rail network including the removal of all crossing points whilst providing alternative access for vehicular, pedestrian, cyclist and equestrian traffic.

Welcomes the investment in infrastructure.  However, notes that investment is lacking in terms of rail infrastructure in this part of the country.

Supports the proposed scheme as detailed in Appendix B of the officer’s report, including the revision detailed in Appendix C of the officer’s report, leading to the submission of a Transport and Works Act application.

To receive a report from the Head of Development on the proposed East Coast Main Line crossing closures.

The Panel considered, with the assistance of a report by the Head of Development (a copy of which is appended in the Minute Book) proposed East Coast Main Line crossing closures. Members were informed that it was Network Rail’s intention to close all vehicular and pedestrian crossings along the route in order to operate at a higher line speed. The funding had not yet been secured for the scheme so if went forward a bid would be submitted to government. The works on the London to Doncaster section of the line were expected to take three years running from 2017 to 2020. An updated plan for the crossing closure at The Offords was circulated to Members.

The Chairman sought clarification as to whether the scheme was part of a package of works. It was confirmed that it was split into two sections; namely London Kings Cross to Doncaster and then Doncaster to Edinburgh.

The Panel queried whether the work on the level crossing closures and on the A14 could be coordinated and construction undertaken at the same time. It was confirmed that this was not possible as the two schemes would be delivered utilising different Statutory provisions.

Regarding the updated plan for The Offords, a Member asked if the measurements of the roundabout had increased. It was confirmed that the plan did appear to show a different measurement from that originally stated but clarification of this would be sought. Councillor Mrs B E Boddington stated that she was pleased with the amended plan for The Offords.

A question was raised about use of the Loves Lane crossing. It was reported that the highest use appeared to be by dog walkers at weekends. It was recommended that the crossing should close as it was one of the fastest points on the line. A Member stated that the proposed diversion was not practical as it went through a factory yard. However it was confirmed that the County Council were seeking to segregate the right of way as part of planned development for the Wintringham Park site.

Following a question from a Member, the Panel were informed that all roads built by Network Rail would be offered to the County Council for adoption.  Network Rail would retain responsibility for bridge maintenance.

There was concern that the closure of The Offords level crossing would result in increased traffic levels. It was confirmed that it was expected that when the crossing closed and current delays were removed, there might be an increase in local traffic flows but not to a level that would cause undue concern.

RESOLVED

(a)  that the work undertaken to date to improve the rail network including the removal of all crossing points while providing alternative access for vehicular, pedestrian, cyclist and equestrian traffic be noted,

(b)  that the proposed scheme leading to the submission of a Transport & Works Act application be supported, and

(c)  that the revised draft plan for The Offords level crossing replacement be endorsed.

(At  ...  view the full minutes text for item 68