Issue - meetings
Cycling in Parks - Bye-Law
Meeting: 25/11/2019 - Council (Item 17)
17 Revoking a Byelaw to Enable Cycling In Parks and Open Spaces PDF 151 KB
This report details the outcome of the consultation regarding the revocation of byelaw 7ii of the Open Spaces and Pleasure Grounds that prohibits cycling in Brent’s parks and open spaces and as a result seeks formal approval to the byelaw being revoked.
Additional documents:
- 17a. Appendix A - Brent Parks and Open Spaces covered by byelaw 7 (ii), item 17 PDF 217 KB
- 17b. Appendix B - Draft Revocation Byelaw, item 17 PDF 41 KB
- 17c. Appendix C - Safety Assessment Summary, item 17 PDF 65 KB
- 17d. Appendix D - Consultation Document - Cycling in Brent Parks, item 17 PDF 155 KB
- 17e. Appendix E - Equality Analysis, item 17 PDF 370 KB
- 17e(i). Appendix E - Equalities analysis (Annexe 1 consultation summary), item 17 PDF 57 KB
- Webcast for Revoking a Byelaw to Enable Cycling In Parks and Open Spaces
Decision:
AGREED
(1) To approve and make the revocation of byelaw 7ii, in the terms set out in Appendix B of the report.
(2) To note the process followed by officers to revoke the byelaw following approval from the General Purposes Committee on 19th March 2019.
(3) To note the outcome of the public consultation conducted from 7 June and 19 July 2019 for revoking byelaw 7 (ii).
Minutes:
Councillor Tatler introduced the report from the Strategic Director, Regeneration and Environment seeking approval, following the outcome of a public consultation process, to the revocation of the byelaw prohibiting cycling in Brent’s parks and open spaces. As part of her opening comments, Councillor Tatler felt that the revocation of the byelaw had been long overdue with the Council committed to providing a safe and accessible cycling infrastructure across the Borough that would not only be properly regulated but would also help to promote physical activity and encourage alternative modes of transport. The report had detailed the outcome of the public consultation undertaken in relation to the proposed revocation along with a survey of all parks and open spaces, and outline of the safety measures that would be introduced, including signage and markings. In concluding her opening comments, Councillor Tatler also felt it was important, by way of reassurance, to confirm that the Council would still be able to use its enforcement powers in order to tackle issues involving general nuisance and inconsiderate behaviour by cyclists and on this basis commended the report to Council.
The Mayor then opened the debate inviting other Members to speak on the report.
Whilst highlighting his support for the proposal, Councillor Kelcher sought an assurance on the retention of measures introduced to tackle problems being caused by motorised scooters in a number of parks, including King Edwards and Roundwood, as a result of any infrastructure works required to support the revocation. Whilst seeking to encourage cycling, these measures had included the installation of gates to prevent access by scooters, which he was keen to ensure were retained. As an additional issue relating to the use of parks and open spaces, he also he also queried whether, alongside revocation of the cycling byelaw, it would be possible to consider overturning the current ban on BBQs.
Councillor Nerva highlighted the logical and innovative nature of the proposal, which he pointed out had been appreciated by cyclists throughout Brent and represented a practical example of how the Council was geninuely seeking to promote cycling as an alternative form of transport and to encourage healthier lifestyles. Following on from the comments made by Councillor Kelcher he also took the opportunity to express his support for the provision of designated space to allow BBQs (on a limited basis) within the boroughs parks and open spaces.
Councillor Maurice, speaking on behalf of the Conservative Group, advised that they also supported the proposed revocation acknowledging the contribution of the associated environmental impacts in relation to cleaner air. Concerns were, however, raised in relation to the enforcement action it would be possible to take in terms of addressing any associated anti-social behaviour or safety issues around aggressive or unsociable cyclists given the shared space and need to avoid harm to other pedestrian park users.
Following on from the issues highlighted by Councillor Maurice, Councillor Colwill also felt there was a need to seek details on the costs associated with any enforcement of ... view the full minutes text for item 17