Purpose

To consider a report on the improvement of the
environment in Poole Park through a trial closure of a park
entrance to motor traffic

Content

RESOLVED that
Cabinet: -
(a)   
Agrees that the current trial closure, of the
Whitecliff entrance and exit point to
motor vehicles, is made permanent in Poole Park.
(b)   
Agrees that current arrangements are
retained, and motor vehicles can still access Poole Park and its
facilities.
Voting: Unanimous
Portfolio Holder: Environment and Energy
Reasons

·           
Supports the BCP Council Corporate Strategy priorities of
Sustainable Environment, preserving our natural environment for
generations to come, an eco-friendly and active transport network,
tackling the climate and ecological emergency, maximising access to
our high-quality parks and open spaces.

·           
Supports the BCP Green Infrastructure Strategy that seeks to help
increase health and well-being outcomes for our communities and
visitors, thereby reducing pressures on health and social services;
reverse biodiversity loss and nature recovery; strengthen the
resilience of people, places and nature to a changing climate and
support high quality placemaking.

·           
Public Health Dorset supports the proposed change as it enhances
Park users’ health and well-being by being in an improved
space with reduced vehicle movements, improved feeling of safety in
accessing the park and its facilities.

·           
This is a strategic improvement of a key destination green space,
supporting users from multiple wards, including some in more
deprived areas. Follows similar precedent in Bournemouth parks,
builds on previous trials and proposals to improve the park’s
environment and the work of the 2017-21 Poole Park Life Heritage
Fund project.

·           
It is recognised that 63% of consultation responses were against
the proposal and of those many responses perceived that there are
negative effects on older people and those with a disability. The
Equalities impact Assessment and independent report by DOTS
disability suggest there is no significant impact on any groups
with protected characteristics.

·           
There has been an extensive review and understanding of the trial
closure, the consultation response and supporting information. This
report assesses the responses to the survey, their stated impacts
against the long-term improvement for the environment of Poole Park
and its users.

·           
With regards to ‘Active Travel’, a reduction of motor
traffic through the park will improve comfort, safety and perception of safety for users of the
park who are walking, wheeling, running or cycling for either
pleasure or utility.

·           
Routes through the park have previously been identified as Key
Walking Routes and/or Primary Cycle Routes within the LCWIP,
adopted by full Council in 2022 in accordance with central
Government policy.