Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Director of Place Management.

The report outlines the consultation policy and process for highways and transportation schemes.

The Scrutiny Panel is recommended to note the report.

Officer contact: Jamie Birtles at jamie.birtles@stockport.gov.uk or Sue Stevenson on 0161 474 4351 or email sue.stevenson@stockport.gov.uk

A representative of the Director of Place Management submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) outlining the consultation policy and process for highways and transportation schemes.

The following comments were made/ issues raised:-

·         Members noted that for consultations on highway schemes, in general, there were certain groups who engaged in consultation and others that the council struggled to engage with. A focus on consultation with all groups was required in order to support residents and ensure that all voices were heard.

·         It was reported that various channels were used to encourage more residents to engage in consultation. Those included exhibitions which allowed residents to comment on proposed schemes. Officers worked during evenings and weekends and social media was also used to allow residents to engage in consultations.

·         It was further reported that officers spoke to local members very early in process as they had key information about which groups should be consulted.

·         It was important to consider the language used as part of consultations and who the scheme was designed to represent and protect. For example, many residents had no access to a car and were reliant on public transport. Air quality and the ambition to change society and encourage more healthy and active lifestyles was an important consideration.

·         Members suggested that a diversity of viewpoints was vital, such as those who used electric bikes or Ubers to commute to work.

·         Members also suggested that it was important to report back to residents on the outcomes of consultations and how they had impacted on schemes to ensure future engagement.

RESOLVED – That the report be noted.