Agenda and draft minutes

The lead petitioner addressed the Cabinet Member. He explained that he had moved to Northwood Way in 2023 and expressed concern regarding the high levels of speeding and collisions in the area. He referenced several recent incidents involving damage to parked vehicles and injuries to residents. He also stated that the current collision data may not fully reflect the scale of the issue due to underreporting.

The petitioner suggested that a reduction in the speed limit to 20mph and the installation of a radar-controlled speed sign would be appropriate measures. He emphasised the residential nature of the area, its proximity to schools, and the presence of young families as key reasons for these interventions.

Councillor Kishan Bhatt expressed his support for the petition. He noted the growing concerns from residents in Northwood Way over dangerous driving behaviour and the increased number of incidents. He proposed the implementation of speed-reducing measures, including the installation of single yellow lines, speed humps, and radar-controlled signage, to align with surrounding roads and improve overall safety.

Councillor Bhatt noted that incidents were not generally recorded unless emergency services were involved. In response to questions from officers, Cllr Bhatt suggested that the opening of a new Community Centre in the area may be contributing to increased traffic and parking stress. The proximity of Northwood Way to the train station and local amenities was also a factor. Councillor Bhatt confirmed that the requested ‘radar-controlled signage’ referred to Vehicle Activated Signs. 

The Traffic, Parking, Road Safety and School Travel Team Manager acknowledged the concerns raised and confirmed that the most recently validated collision data available to the Council was up to the end of 2023, due to delays in receiving updated records from the Metropolitan Police.

He clarified that the enforcement of speed limits through cameras fell under the remit of the Metropolitan Police and Transport for London. However, he noted that the Council could explore the installation of vehicle-activated signs and other traffic calming measures, subject to supporting data.

The Cabinet Member thanked the petitioner and ward councillor for their contributions. He reiterated the Council’s ongoing focus on road safety, while noting the enforcement limitations around 20mph zones without consistent police engagement.

The Cabinet Member explained that while removing parked vehicles may improve visibility, it could also lead to increased vehicle speeds. He recommended that the local Safer Neighbourhood Team be approached to consider the potential for a Community Speed Watch initiative, encouraging local involvement in monitoring driver behaviour.

The Cabinet Member thanked the petitioner, Ward Councillor and officers for their attendance and confirmed that the Council would give full consideration to the issues raised in the petition.

In considering the matters, the Cabinet Member made the following decisions

RESOLVED: That the Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing and Growth:

1. Met with the petitioners and listened to their request for enhanced road infrastructure measures on Northwood Way, Northwood.

2. Approved the commissioning of independent 24/7 traffic and speed surveys on Northwood Way, at locations agreed in consultation  ...  view the full minutes text for item 4.