Councillor Paul Osborn, Leader of the Council, approved an experimental traffic order to implement a red route in parts of Rayners Lane, Alexandra Avenue and Village Way East. The decision aims to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, support public transport, and enhance road safety and air quality in Rayners Lane Town Centre. The Leader also requested that he be consulted before any modifications are made during the experimental period.

Rayners Lane Experimental Traffic Order

Councillor Paul Osborn approved the implementation of an Experimental Traffic Order (ETO) to introduce a red route in parts of Rayners Lane, Alexandra Avenue and Village Way East.

The decision was made following a recommendation from the Traffic and Road Safety Advisory Panel (TARSAP). The aim of the ETO is to restore safe and efficient traffic flow in Rayners Lane Town Centre by addressing issues such as:

• Long-stay parking
• Loading arrangements
• Blue badge access
• Traffic flow

Councillor Paul Osborn stressed the importance of keeping the scheme under review, engaging with local traders, and working with Transport for London (TfL) on junction markings and access around Rayners Lane station.

The decision gives authority to the Strategic Director of Culture, Environment and Economy, following consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Finance and Highways and the Leader of the Council, to:

• Agree the terms of the experimental traffic management order
• Undertake further pre-order engagement
• Make decisions to withdraw the order or make modifications to it during the experimental period

A decision on whether to make a permanent order will be submitted to Cabinet for approval.

The report stated that:

The introduction of a red route in Rayners Lane Town Centre would help meet several strategic aims as part of the Council's Local Transport Policy and allow for the effective enforcement of indiscriminate parking which would help to reduce congestion, support public transport and improve road safety and air quality. Use of an experimental order was recommended as this allowed consultation with the public whilst the scheme was in operation and allowed residents and businesses to make informed representations having experienced the scheme in practice.

Alternative options considered and rejected are set out in the report.

Other Matters

• A minute's silence was held for the victims of the Manchester attacks.
• Councillor Paul Osborn declared a non-pecuniary interest as a member of the Harrow West Conservative Association, but determined that this would not prevent him from participating in the discussion and decision-making process.
• No petitions or public questions were received.