Local Development Framework Consultation

DM5 - Rights of Way and other routes providing pedestrian and cycle access

No

TownPlanningLNW@networkrail.co.uk

Network Rail has the following comments to make on the DMP.

(1) Level Crossings
Policy DM5 – Rights of Way and other routes providing pedestrian and cycle access
Purpose: To maintain and protect the character of rights of way and provide a framework for protection, creation and enhancement of all forms of pedestrian and cycle routes in a safe, attractive and connected manner as part of the wider access and green infrastructure framework
2.5.1 Public rights of way, and other routes providing for safe, attractive pedestrian and cycle access, facilitate sustainable patterns of movement between and within the open countryside and urban areas of the district. They are key to the promotion of active travel and contribute to the district’s access and green infrastructure network. It is therefore important such routes are maintained and protected and where possible opportunities for their enhancement and additional links to them are realised.

Proposals for development opportunities (employment, residential etc) should consider the potential for impacts upon level crossings, including those that carry over the railway public footpaths. The council is requested to include a policy in regards to the potential of proposals to increase the risk at level crossings.

A Transport Statement or Transport Assessment should be undertaken to ensure that the impact of proposed new developments at existing level crossings is assessed by developers, and suitable mitigation incorporated within the development proposals and funded by the developer(s). Mitigation measures to be agreed with Network Rail.

Councils are urged to take the view that level crossings can be impacted in a variety of ways by planning proposals:
• By a proposal being directly next to a level crossing
• By the cumulative effect of developments added over time in the vicinity of a level crossing
• By the type of level crossing involved e.g. where pedestrians only are allowed to use the level crossing, but a proposal involves allowing cyclists to use the route
• By the construction of large developments (commercial and residential) where road access to and from the site includes a level crossing or the level / type of use of a level crossing increases as a result of diverted traffic or of a new highway
• By developments that might impede pedestrians ability to hear approaching trains at a level crossing, e.g. new airports or new runways / highways / roads
• By proposals that may interfere with pedestrian and vehicle users’ ability to see level crossing warning signs
• By any developments for schools, colleges or nurseries where minors in numbers may be using the level crossing
• By any proposal that may cause blocking back across the level crossing
• By any proposal which may see a level crossing impacted by the proposed introduction of cycling or walking routes

Please notify me.