Newcastle City Council

Chief Executive's Office

Democratic Services

INTERNAL MEMORANDUM

I refer to a meeting of the Advisory Panel held on 18 December 2008 which met to consider the objections raised to the proposed City Centre Controlled Parking Zone. There were two letters of objection. None of the objectors were present however the Panel received representations from a Mr Sharif (UITA) representing some of the taxi trade, requesting that he may speak to the meeting on their behalf. The Panel agreed that Mr Sharif could address the Panel about his concerns.

Details of the objections were included in the attached report which you presented to the Panel.

Following the hearing the Panel considered all the details and correspondence which had been put before them then made the recommendation that, on balance, the objections should be overruled and the legal order made. The reasons for this decision were;

1. That the expeditious, convenient and safe movement of vehicular and other traffic would on balance be enhanced by the Order

2. The proposals would preserve and improve the amenities of the area, enhancing the overall quality of the environment of this central part of the City.

3. The proposals were not unduly affect of the servicing of local businesses and premises

4. The provision of suitable and adequate parking in the area would not be affected by the Order.

In considering the aforementioned proposals the Panel noted the offer of your officer to meet with Miss Mason, one of the objectors, regarding her concerns regarding parking near her home.

The Panel also noted the concerns of the taxi trade, both from the written representation of an objector (Mr Shanks) and from the representations made by Mr Sharif (UITA) and considered that the proposed meeting with the Taxi trade representatives, regarding their concerns should be held as soon as possible.

Whilst the final decision about whether to proceed with the proposals rests with yourself, I would ask that you consider the recommendations the Panel and if you are in agreement with them, process a Delegated Decision to ratify this decision.

If you are not in favour of the Panel's recommendations you may overturn them, but you must give substantial reasons for doing so.

Finally, may I remind you that in accordance with the guidance notes for hearing TRO representations, the objectors/correspondants must be provided with the recommendations given to yourself and your final decision within 21 days of the Advisory Panel, unless it is unpractical to come to a decision within this time.

I would be grateful if you could let me know your decision in order that I may inform those who have made objections/representations.

\\Dfsccs001v\dfsroot\Chief Execs\Democratic Services\DSM\Traffic\TMA Orders\CPZ/Group Manager Traffic & Project Man - 23.12.08 (ce) (ct)