Agenda item

The lead petitioner was not in attendance however had submitted a written representation highlighting the following points:   

• Park Avenue already has speed bumps across the other half of the road.

• Multiple speeding cars down this road creates a high level of danger for the young Children & older residents.

• Number of drivers speed down this road as a shortcut to avoid traffic on Eastcote Road

• Having speed control introduced physically on the road will help to reduce the number of people speeding down our road in the hopes to shave a few minutes off traffic time on Eastcote Road.

• This is dangerous as the road merges with Elmbridge drive on a bend, during school times the risk becomes even more dangerous with a constant barrage of speeding cars.

Ward Councillors Riley and Smallwood addressed the Cabinet Member on behalf of the petitioners and local residents, raising concerns about speeding and road safety on Park Avenue.

Councillor Riley stated that speeding on several roads across the ward is a well-known issue, noting that overall driving standards appear to have deteriorated in recent years. Park Avenue was described as a long road with cars parked on both sides, which sometimes assist in calming traffic. Councillor Riley expressed appreciation for the petitioner’s observations about Park Avenue being used as a through route to avoid main roads and recounted personal observations of vehicle behaviour along that road. He acknowledged that while physical speed mitigation measures (such as speed humps, tables, rumble strips) are possible, they often present problems: noise, difficulty for certain vehicles, and potential concerns from residents. He also expressed that there must be a balance. He commended non-physical measures such as dot matrix signs showing speed, smiley faces, or 20/30 mph flashing speed indicators, which he and other residents believe are positive and useful.

Councillor Smallwood concurred with Councillor Riley’s general view and affirmed support for the petitioners’ intentions but added the need for better empirical data; he proposed that further investigation be undertaken to gather reliable information about the extent of speeding, which would enable appropriate action to be taken. Councillor Smallwood reported that he had received mixed feedback from residents via door-to-door, social media and WhatsApp groups. While many express concern about speeding, others are worried about the effect of speed humps/tables – including noise, vibration, and potential impacts on property values. official collision data for Park Avenue shows only a small number of (minor) incidents; however, he acknowledged that such data may not provide the full picture.

Both ward councillors supported recommendation 8 of the Council report, which proposes commissioning an independent 24/7 speed and traffic survey for Park Avenue. Councillor Smallwood suggested that survey locations should be agreed in consultation with residents and ward councillors. They agreed that if the survey confirms speed is a serious issue, there should then be an open discussion with residents about what mitigation options are acceptable—balancing safety with quality of life. They also made reference to other forms of enforcement and mitigation: engagement with the police and the Safer Neighbourhood / Ward Panel, possibly arranging a speed gun event or community road watch initiatives.

In conclusion, Councillor Smallwood and Councillor Riley expressed support for the petitioners’ concerns, the importance of collecting robust evidence, and committed to working closely with residents to identify acceptable measures should the survey indicate need.

Resolved

The Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing & Growth:

1)    Met with petitioners and listens to their request for ‘speed bumps’ on Park Avenue, Ruislip; and

2)    Decided officers should commission independent 24/7 speed and traffic surveys on Park Avenue, at locations agreed with petitioners and Ward Councillors