Agenda item - George Street Opening Hours

Extract from the proceedings of the Environment, Transport & Sustainability Committee meeting held on the 10^th October, 2017; together with a report of the Executive Director for Economy, Environment & Culture (copies attached).

41.1      Councillor Mitchell introduced the report which detailed the proposal to amend the opening hours to traffic in George Street.  She noted that the Environment, Transport & Sustainability Committee had agreed to a trial taking place following the receipt of a deputation and petition to its June meeting.

41.2      Councillor West stated that he felt it was an ill-conceived change to the existing arrangements and would result in increased danger to pedestrians and an increase in air pollution.  It was likely to impact on trade and there had been no consultation on the proposed change.

41.3      Councillor Wealls stated that both he and Councillor Moonan as ward councillors had consulted on the proposed change and noted that over a 1,000 people had expressed their support whilst only 300 had been opposed to it.  He stated that the local traders were in favour and noted that both Boots and Spec Savers had said it was likely to benefit vulnerable clients in getting to their appointments.  He also noted that it was intended as a trial and would be reviewed.

41.4      The Mayor noted that Councillor Mitchell did not wish to respond and that the report had been referred for information.  She therefore moved that it be noted.

41.5      RESOLVED: That the report be noted.