Update - 7 March 2014
Following the formal consultation carried out in November 2013, the representations received during the consultation were reported to the Cabinet Member for Environmental Sustainability and Regeneration on 21 January 2014 who has agreed to proceed with the implementation of the proposals.
Formal consultation - November 2013
We intend to replace the existing raised speed table in Ashcombe Road near its junction with Queen's Road with a width restriction.
In January 2012, a 7.5 tonne HGVs (heavy Goods Vehicles) weight restriction was imposed on Ashcombe Road, Cromwell Road, Haydon Park Road, and Avondale Road to reduce the number of vehicles, which use these roads as a cut through to and from The Broadway. However some drivers still abuse this restriction, which has resulted in some residents complaining to the Council regarding noise generated when heavy goods vehicles travel over the existing speed table.
A traffic volume survey conducted in May 2010 in Ashcombe Road showed that HGVs contribute to approximately 7% of the weekly vehicular traffic in this road.
Although this proposal would restrict HGVs from using this road, it would also impact on emergency response times for the emergency services and refuse collection to and from the area.
Ashcombe Road is also used as a 'special service' route during tennis event days for special buses operating from the All England Lawn Tennis Club and Wimbledon Station. This facility will not be removed as modifications have been incorporated in the design of the proposed width restriction.
What happens next
A Notice of the Council's intention to implement the above measures will also be published in the local newspaper, London Gazette and posted on lamp columns in the vicinity. Representations for or against any of the proposals or parts of it must be done in writing to the Environment and Regeneration Department, Merton Civic Centre, London Road, Morden, Surrey, SM4 5DX or email trafficandhighways@merton.gov.uk no later than 22 November 2013, quoting reference ES/SGE/AR. Any objections must relate only to the elements of the scheme that are subject to this statutory consultation.
The content of your representation to the various element of the proposals will determine if any element of the scheme will be withdrawn or proceed to the implementation stage and not necessarily the number of responses received. Your views will be considered proportionately depending on issues such as how likely you will be affected by any of the proposals.
All representations along with Officers' comments and recommendations will be reported to the Cabinet Member for Environmental Sustainability and Regeneration for a decision on whether to proceed and implement the measures.
Please note that responses to any representations received will not be made until a final decision is made by the Cabinet Member.
A copy of the proposed TMO/Notices, plan identifying the area affected by the proposals and the Council's 'Statement of Reasons' for the proposals can be inspected by prior appointment at Merton Link, Merton Civic Centre, London Road, Morden, Surrey during the Council's working hours, Monday to Friday, between 9am and 5pm. The documents can also be inspected at Wimbledon Library during opening hours.