Purpose

Approval is sought to take forward the South Lancaster to M6 Road Scheme by approving the route of the Spine Road to serve Bailrigg Garden Village; and a site for a Park and Ride facility, together with the use of compulsory purchase powers. 

Earlier decisions made by Cabinet in relation to this scheme, in January and February 2021, are referred to within this report.

The design exercise and the preparation of a planning application have commenced for the Bailrigg Garden Village Spine Road route and the Hazelrigg Lane Park and Ride.

In order to maintain programme milestones and to ensure the scheme can be delivered, it is essential that the county council has possession of all the necessary land. Negotiations have commenced with landowners however; agreement may not be achievable in time or at all. Consequently, it may be necessary to use Compulsory Purchase powers available to the county council, under the Highways Act 1980, to acquire the land. Approval is sought for use of such powers.

Additionally, a Side Roads Order under the Highways Act 1980 will also be required to enable alterations to be made to the existing highways including the M6 and changes to private means of access. Other Schemes and Orders under the Highways Act will also be required to enable the construction of a bridge over the canal's navigable waters.

This is deemed to be a Key Decision and the requirements of Standing Order C19 have been complied with.

Decision

The Cabinet approved the recommendation(s) as set out in the report.