Issue - meetings

Recommendation: That the order is made

Proposal: Path creation order

Applicant: Wokingham Borough Council

The Committee received a report about this application, set out in agenda pages 29 to 106.

The Committee were advised that there were no Members’ Updates.

Rachelle Shepherd-Dubey commented that she hoped that officers would ensure that no Jubilee Oaks were damaged during the creation of this section of the path. Simon Weeks commented that the proposals included a no dig approach and the use of permeable materials.

Angus Ross queried what criteria the order could be challenged on, during the next consultation, should the order be made on the evening. Andrew Fletcher, case officer, stated that an interested party would have to make a new representation which showed a legal interest in the land.

Malcolm Richards queried what process would follow should someone claim a legal interest in the land. Andrew Fletcher stated that should the order be made, a 6 week period (which would be advertised) would follow to allow interested parties to come forward. After this period, and should no objections be received, there would be a further 6 month period for individuals to challenge the legal processes relating to the making of the order.

Pauline Jorgensen queried whether this path would include the Gear Change guidance relating to separation of pedestrians and cyclists. Andrew Fletcher stated that greenways are off-road routes and comply with the guidance in that respect, as the new guidance discourages shared footway/cycleways, but outside of this the Greenways were not usually designed to segregated users. Highways were aware of the new standards and would comply where possible. Pauline Jorgensen requested that the following be included within the minutes: When designing the route, officers endeavour to meet as many of the Gear Change objectives including the separation of cycle ways and footways given the constraints of the site.

Gary Cowan stated that the original consultation was thorough and well presented, and suggested that officers may wish to consider developing an action plan to address the points already raised within the initial consultation. Gary added that it would be useful to present a reference number alongside such orders to allow easy reference in the future.

The Committee were unanimous in their support for this scheme, as it provided a linked greenway route to allow for recreation and exercise.

RESOLVED That the order be made subject to the recommendations set out in agenda pages 29 to 30.