Agenda item

Introduce an official time-limited one-way system, Newnham Avenue, Eastcote (Agenda Item 6)

The Cabinet Member considered a petition requesting traffic management measures, including a timed one-way restriction, for Newnham Avenue, Ruislip.

The lead petitioner was in attendance and addressed the Cabinet Member, highlighting the following points:

Approximately 650 pupils, aged between 3 and 11, across the nursery, infant and junior schools, as well as their families, used the road daily, making it a consistently busy school route rather than an occasional issue.

The petitioner advised that they had a long term connection to the area, having attended the school as a pupil and later returning as both a pedestrian and driver, and stated that conditions had steadily worsened over several decades.

Traffic congestion, parking pressures, and road safety concerns had significantly increased over time, particularly during school peak periods.

The road was narrow and two way traffic combined with parked vehicles created difficulties for vehicles passing and for pedestrians accessing the school safely.

It was reported that current conditions were no longer suitable for the level of demand experienced during school drop off and pick up times.

Although no recent police recorded collisions had been noted, the petitioner emphasised that this did not reflect the full extent of safety concerns, with near misses occurring regularly.

A specific incident was highlighted where a vehicle mounted the pavement in close proximity to the petitioner and their child, narrowly avoiding injury.

It was noted that such incidents were not captured in official data but formed part of the daily experience of residents and families.

Concerns were raised regarding driver behaviour, including rushing to secure parking spaces, mounting pavements, and causing conflict between road users.

Instances of aggressive behaviour, including shouting and use of horns, were reported during peak times.

The petitioner stated that children were placed at risk when crossing the road due to congestion and driver behaviour.

It was highlighted that the school council had recently used part of its own budget to install road safety banners, requesting drivers to slow down.

The petitioner expressed concern that children felt the need to take such action, stating that responsibility for road safety should not fall on pupils.

While acknowledging the positive work undertaken by the schools to promote safe and active travel, it was stated that the issue now extended beyond what schools could reasonably manage.

The petitioner emphasised that this was a highways and road safety matter requiring wider intervention.

Concerns were raised regarding potential displacement of traffic to surrounding roads, and it was stated that any measures should be considered as part of a wider area based approach.

A request was made for officers to investigate suitable options, including a timed school street style intervention, in consultation with residents and schools.

The petitioner expressed support for a proportionate and evidence led approach, with further consultation and monitoring to ensure that any measures improved safety overall.

The Transport Planning and Projects Team Leader advised that while a timed restriction may not be feasible, alternative measures such as a one-way system could be explored. It was noted that any changes could have wider impacts on surrounding roads and residents and would require careful assessment. Officers would continue to work with schools and the Road Safety Team to explore potential options and gather further evidence.

The Cabinet Member acknowledged the concerns raised and confirmed that the Council would seek to support appropriate improvements where possible.

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

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

Met with petitioners and listened to their request for a timed one way restriction on Newnham Avenue, Ruislip;

Noted the national guidance for the implementation of one way restrictions;

Noted the postcode information for petition signatories;

Considered work previously undertaken by the Council’s School Travel and Road Safety Team; and

Decided that further investigation may be warranted.