Agenda item

To receive any questions from Surrey County Council electors within the area in accordance with Standing Order 66.

Declarations of Interest: None

Officers Attending: Steve Howard, Transport Strategy Project Manager, SCC

Petitions, Public Questions and Statements: Two questions were received before the deadline. The full wording of the questions was available to view within the supplementary agenda.

Question 1 from Mr Carl Cookson, on public access to Ash Ranges.

Key points from discussion:

Members expressed support for the local residents whose access to the MOD-owned Ash Ranges has been restricted over the past year. The importance of access to open areas for exercise during the period of covid restrictions was emphasised. Although Ash is on the western boundary of the borough, it is the only urban area outside Guildford Town and represents a large proportion of our residential area. In addition, the large number of new housing developments that have received planning permission which will increase the pressure from local residents to find outdoor areas for exercise and recreation.

It was noted that while the majority of the Ash Ranges site (88%, 3027 acres) remains open to the public on days when the MOD is not training, the 12% (413 acres) making up the Ash Range Firing Complex (AFRC) has been permanently closed since April 2021. The AFRC area is the most accessible part of the site for people with reduced mobility as it is predominantly flat and has good surfaces. It is also the most straightforward route to reach to the larger area; its closure means residents need to follow the perimeter path, which is poor quality and hilly.

As the land-owner, the MOD is acting according to the bylaws, but despite the efforts of Ash Parish Council it has not provided clear evidence to support its decision to close the ARFC. Discussions are continuing to try and find a solution that both sides would be happy with, but progress is very slow; the local MP is also now involved.

The MOD had provided a statement to the committee outlining the current situation but as a response the committee felt it was unsatisfactory. Members felt that it would make a difference if the MOD and the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) knew that the whole of Guildford borough is behind the local residents in their wish to have access to the whole Ash Ranges area again.

Mr Cookson stressed that the ARFC is the most import area, especially during this period of lockdown and the importance of outdoor exercise coupled with restrictions on wider travel; any pressure the Joint Committee could bring to bear would be welcome.

Question 2 from Dr Nigel Burke (GBUG), on possible funding for ‘mini Holland’ infrastructure.

Key points from discussion:

Dr Burke reminded the committee about the report that GBC had commissioned on cycle routes in Guildford town, and stated that although Low Traffic Neighbourhoods formed an important part of any plans it was also the connections over the A3, the railway, the river and main routes such as Ladymead, and through to the town centre that are important.

The Transport Strategy Project Manager responded to Dr Burke’s question, acknowledging his suggestions; he said that SCC is prioritising active travel as part of its response to covid-19 and it will be an important element of LTP4, to which Dr Burke’s suggestions would be taken. In addition, Local Cycling and Walking Implementation Plans (LCWIPs) are being developed across the county, which would produce a network of routes between key destinations. These schemes would then provide the basis for funding applications. Guildford is in the second tranche for this (with Spelthorne, Surrey Heath and Mole Valley), which is scheduled for implementation in September.

Local interest and community groups (including GBUG), Resident Associations, parishes etc would be consulted as widely as possible in the preparation of the LCWIP plans. Ward councillors would be able to provide suggestions of contacts.

Cllr White left the meeting at this point.

The Cabinet Member for Highways confirmed that Atkins is doing all the work on LCWIPs across the county, which will promote consistency and cross-border continuity between boroughs. The first stage covers feasibility and design work, followed by submission of a business case and bids for funding. The Dept. for Transport has been clear that funding for future walking and cycling improvements would only be offered if an LCWIP is in place.