Park and ride scheme on Bathampton Meadows
The petition of residents of the UK,
Declares that Bathampton Meadows are an area of cultural and historical importance; further that the proposed park and ride scheme on Bathampton Meadows will negatively affect the local landscape; further that the plans will negatively impact local tourism; and further than an online petition on this matter was signed by over 6,000 petitioners.
The petitioners therefore request that the House of Commons urges Bath and North East Somerset Council to withdraw plans to build a park and ride scheme on Bathampton Meadows.
And the petitioners remain, etc.—[Presented by Mr Jacob Rees-Mogg, Official Report, 6 January 2016; Vol. 604, c. 403.]
[P001667]
Observations from the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Transport (Andrew Jones):
Planning for local transport, including new park and ride facilities, is the responsibility of the Local Transport Authority. When considering new facilities the relevant local authority must follow planning procedures, seek relevant permissions and carry out public consultation. In this case, the Local Transport Authority is Bath and North East Somerset Council.
The council is currently carrying out a public consultation on a preferred site for a park and ride east of Bath. This is a local process instigated by Bath and North East Somerset Council and is in advance of formal planning procedures. It is not for Government to intervene in these local issues. However, members of the public may make representations to the local authority about their planning proposals, as set out in published guidance.
Bath and North East Somerset Council has identified three potential park and ride sites. In September/October 2015 the council carried out a public consultation process to identify the most appropriate location. The three sites under consideration are land east of the A4/A46 junction, land to the west of Mill Lane and land to the east of Mill Lane. A summary report of this consultation has now been produced and published by Bath and North East Somerset Council. Currently, a preferred option for the park and ride site has not been decided.
Bath and North East Somerset Council’s Communities, Transport and Environment Policy Development and Scrutiny Panel will be undertaking an open public scrutiny day on 22 March 2016. It will take place in the Banqueting Room, The Guildhall, Bath from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm. The day will review a park and ride to the East of Bath and also wider integrated transport solutions for the area. Further details about this event may be obtained from Bath and North East Somerset Council.