Thank you Madam Chair
This petition asks BCP Council to review its current transport and infrastructure policies. Launched in December 2024 , it quickly obtained 3261 signatures.
We started it because of a real lack of confidence in the current management of our
local roads by BCP council.
We have recently seen several major , lengthy and expensive infrastructure projects in support of Active Travel initiatives. For example , just one mile of completed cycling infrastructure can cost £5.5m!!
Views expressed in the public consultations for these were frequently ignored and the original council proposals implemented.
As a result, residents, businesses and trades especially those in Poole, have experienced
significant delay, disruption and inconvenience to their daily lives.
Many arterial roads have been severely narrowed with reduced access for the Emergency services. Many bus lay bays have been removed , buses now stop on the main carriageway causing increased traffic congestion.
Several Council Cabinet members said their aim is to remove 50% of cars from BCP’s roads. This is a huge concern to residents, 83% of whom use a car regularly.
BCP”s approach and mantra to the construction of these cycling infrastructure projects is “ if we build them they will come “ .
However, they remain virtually empty.
Residents have real concerns over the gradual creep of 20 MPH Zones throughout BCP. Currently 77 such zones. We understand that the target number is 120. It will be an effective blanket 20MPH speed limit.
20MPH zones are appropriate near schools and in proven accident black spots but should operate only on a part time basis outside schools. They are certainly not required 24 hours a day/ 7days a week!
Utility Companies need to be held more accountable. Works should be completed within agreed timescales and repairs durable and fit for purpose. Most potholes are as a result of poorly reinstated surfaces following utility companies work.
BCP should review its routine roads maintenance programme to ensure co-ordination in terms of timing and location to minimise traffic disruption.
There are several practical steps that could be taken to ease congestion in BCP especially at peak times.
Firstly ,the introduction of a Free School Bus programme for all students under 18 This would greatly alleviate pressure at school drop off/ pick up times and reduce the need for Mum/ dad’s taxi services!
BCP could also implement a comprehensive review of current Traffic Light phasing and necessity Residents familiar with Fleetsbridge Roundabout know traffic flows better when the traffic lights are not working!
BCP and Dorset motorists group fully support all aspects traffic enforcement by the police as outlined in our group mission statement.
We represent a large often silent ignored group of Road users.
All we are asking is for BCP Council reviews its current transport and infrastructure
policy to ensure it is fair, equal and proportionate to all road users.
Please listen to your electorate - “ stop the war on motorists!! “
Thank you!