Decision details

To authorise the twice weekly closure of Neasden Lane between Birse Crescent and the North Circular Road slip to facilitate a street market.

The report from the Chief Operating Officer informed the committee of temporary arrangements for a road closure in Neasden Town Centre between Birse Crescent and the North Circular Road slip road twice weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays, in order to accommodate the possible temporary relocation of a street market from Church End Car Park during the redevelopment of the Church End Car Park site. The report provided information on studies commissioned by Regeneration and Growth for Neasden Town Centre, a proposed location for a street market and the consultation and legal process.

The Head of Transportation, Tony Kennedy, advised that, following consultation, it was hoped the closures would be in operation early in 2016 ready so that whenever the market was approved, the road closures would be in place. The traffic management order had been drafted and could be brought into operation 21 days after advertisement.

Members expressed support for the proposal noting it was part of a regeneration strategy to develop the area. It was hoped that the public would soon find alternative routes which would generate footfall and help develop long term prosperity.

In discussion, members raised questions on the market proposals and agreed on the need for discussions to take place with local traders and ward councillors to ensure the area was monitored and kept clear of parked cars. The committee also agreed on the need for a confirmed contractual position on waste and recycling to ensure all areas of the market were properly maintained.

RESOLVED:

(i)         that the Head of Transportation be authorised to undertake in conjunction with the Strategic Director of Regeneration and Growth, a public consultation with local residents and businesses for road closures in Neasden Lane to facilitate a temporary street market;

(ii)        that the Head of Transportation be authorised to undertake statutory consultation for the necessary Traffic Management Order in parallel with the public consultation, to consider any objections or representations to either consultation, and to implement the necessary signing and road markings or to report back to Highways Committee if objections are substantial.