1.Can I ask if a risk assessment was ever carried out for the Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTN) bus gate/block in Ladysmith Road (as opposed to an impact statement) for the mix of pedestrians/cyclists with vehicles at school drop off and collection times? What issues were identified? What measures were put in place to minimise risk?
The requested information is already available at the following Freedom of Information request Heavitree Low Traffic Neighbourhood.
2. Given there has been a recent collision between a car and cyclist and numerous reported near misses, has a re evaluation risk assessment been carried out? If so, by whom and what risks were identified? What measures have been put in place to minimise them?
Devon County Council are aware of the incidents and near misses recently reported, and have subsequently liaised with Devon and Cornwall Police on the issues. No further Road Safety Audits have been carried out.
3. If none have been done, what is the rationale for that decision particularly in view of the recent incident and near misses and could one be carried out urgently?
Devon County Council and Devon & Cornwall Police are working together closely to respond to drivers ignoring the bus gate restrictions. Drivers who ignore the restrictions are placing other road users, particularly pedestrians and cyclists at increased risk in addition to undermining the data gathering process linked to the trial. Devon County Council have applied to the Department for Transport for Moving Traffic Enforcement Powers for bus gate contraventions but have recently been advised that the legislation to permit this is unlikely to be delivered until later on this year or possibly next year. In the interim, Devon & Cornwall Police will conduct random and unpredictable enforcement and engagement activity, including receiving online reports from the public where clear evidence exists of violations. Individuals are strongly advised not to provoke conflict by filming over an extended period.