Report of the Group Head of Place Shaping and Sustainable Transport Officer

RESOLVED –

1.         that the new sustainable transport strategy, ‘Transforming Travel in Watford: the strategy for 2021-41', and the High Level Delivery Plan be approved.

2.         that the LCWIP be agreed and further work to undertake and validate proposed routes and develop detailed proposals be endorsed.

3.         that the strategy will be monitored through quarterly updates to Cabinet and annual reviews.

Cabinet received a report of the Sustainable Transport Officer and the Group Head of Place Shaping which provided the final draft of the Transforming Travel in Watford: the strategy for 2021-2041.

Councillor Stotesbury reported that approximately 54% of all journeys were less than three miles, most of which were driven.  The document highlighted the strategic interventions and investment the council wished to make.  The strategy had been developed with Watford and county officers and he wished to thank them for their work.  The strategy had recently been approved by the county council.  There had a been a lot of consultation about the strategy’s content, which had included various groups including those who were disadvantaged and disability groups.  The council had declared a climate emergency and the biggest factor was greenhouse gases.  At the morning peak travel time the average speed was 10mph.  Other modes of transport or activity were to be encouraged.  He commented that congestion costs money as well as environmental costs.  Those walking or cycling were more likely to stop along the route and spend money locally, which supported the local economy.  He thanked the Group Head of Place Shaping and Sustainable Transport Officer who had been involved in many aspects of the consultation.

Councillor Bell agreed that congestion was an issue in Watford.  He asked if the introduction of a congestion charge was likely in Watford.

Councillor Stotesbury advised a comment had been made during the residents’ consultation, however there were many other methods to use before congestion charging would be considered.

The Mayor thanked the residents that had taken part in the consultation.  A large number of responses had been received.

RESOLVED –

1.         that the new sustainable transport strategy, ‘Transforming Travel in Watford: the strategy for 2021-41', and the High Level Delivery Plan be approved.

2.         that the LCWIP be agreed and further work to undertake and validate proposed routes and develop detailed proposals be endorsed.

3.         that the strategy will be monitored through quarterly updates to Cabinet and annual reviews.