Agenda item

Report of the Superintendent of Epping Forest.

The Mayor of London and Transport for London were working with the London

Boroughs of Redbridge (LBR) and Newham (LBN) to install cycle Quietway 6 –

between Mile End and Barkingside within financial year 2016/17.

The Quietway route will bring a range of benefits to the open spaces in the area

including the impact of reduced carriageway widths and consequent traffic speed

reductions; the removal of vehicle parking on the northern edge of Capel Road

adjoining Wanstead Flats; improved signage and the installation of a Toucan

crossing improving connections with the Cemetery and Crematorium.

Discussions ensued regarding the provision of cycling in the Forest and the development of a policy regarding the activity. Members agreed that while cycling should be encouraged it should also be carefully managed in the Forest.

Officers sought the Committee’s approval to dedicate a total area of 77m2 of

Forest Land to LBN and LBR for nil consideration to enable these local highway

authorities to undertake the installation of the section of Quietway 6, which would run adjacent to Forest Land. The cost of installation and future care and maintenance costs are to be met by the local authorities.

Resolved – that Members:

· Approved the proposal to dedicate to public highway 37 m2 of Forest Land to

LBN to facilitate the installation of Quietway 6 - Mile End to Barkingside.

· Approve the proposal to dedicate to public highway 18 m2 of Forest Land to

LBR to facilitate the installation of Quietway 6 - Mile End to Barkingside.

· Approved the proposal to convert the existing wayleave agreements with LBR

covering 22m2 to public highway

· Requested further information regarding a formal ‘land bank’ arrangement with the relevant Local Authorities.