Agenda item

Progress update on the Bank on Safety interim scheme improvements programme

Report of the Director of the Built Environment

Minutes:

The Sub-Committee considered a report of the Director of the Built Environment seeking delegated authority to permit the replacement of 3 metre columns with 8 metre columns across the Square Mile to support the roll out of 5G mobile small cells in a further 150 locations, on the basis that the initial 10 locations are not considered to present an impact on users of the public highway. The City Surveyor introduced the report and drew Members’ attention to the key points before presenting slides of the columns in the initial 10 locations to outline their impact.

 

Whilst Members recognised that the 8 metre columns were not a perfect solution, they were supportive of the proposals as they provided important infrastructure and contributed to strategic aims. In response to queries from Members, officers advised that no new locations would be required, only replacements for columns in existing locations. The columns could also be used for other purposes and would have an ongoing use, and would be installed in locations that would not impact pedestrians. The Director of the Built Environment advised that the columns were low-maintenance and had a healthy lifespan, and could be maintained within existing budgets.

 

RESOLVED – That delegated authority be granted to the Director of the Built Environment, in consultation with the Chairman and Deputy Chairman of Streets & Walkways Sub-Committee, to approve the further replacement of 3 metre columns with 8 metre columns in 150 locations to facilitate the housing 5G small cell equipment to improve mobile coverage across the Square Mile.

Supporting documents: