The Traffic and Road Safety Advisory Panel (TARSAP) met on Wednesday 15 October 2025 to discuss a range of traffic and parking-related issues. Key discussions included updates on the parking programme, traffic schemes, and active travel initiatives, with a particular focus on Controlled Parking Zones (CPZs), cycle safety, and school safety measures.

Petitions Update

The panel received an update on petitions submitted since the July meeting. Councillor Stephen Hickman, a Labour Reserve Member for Harrow, queried the repeated consideration of Controlled Parking Zones (CPZs) on Courtenay Avenue without implementation, despite numerous petitions. Officers explained that a previous major development had impacted decisions, but that the area could still be considered for a CPZ. It was acknowledged that past consultations had not resulted in CPZs, necessitating a review to determine if circumstances had changed.

Parking Programme Update

An update on the parking programme, including CPZ developments, was presented. The panel requested that Appendices B and C of the report be updated with current information, noting factual errors, particularly concerning South Harrow. The Public Transport Adviser, Mr Keith Nason, voiced concerns that a proposed scheme in Harrow Weald could delay buses if not properly considered in relation to public transport.

Traffic Programme Update

Progress on various traffic schemes was discussed. Ms Veronica Chamberlain, the Cycling Adviser, raised concerns about the lack of dedicated cycle lanes in the proposed bus priority scheme for Kenton Road. She suggested that cycle lanes could be implemented on the left side of the road without impeding bus flow. Officers stated that while the primary aim was bus priority, feedback on the design was welcome. Mr Nason questioned Transport for London (TfL) regarding the absence of a fixed bus stop on Church Lane, and was informed that TfL deemed it not feasible.

Active and Sustainable Travel and Road Safety

The panel received an update on initiatives to promote sustainable travel and road safety. Ms Chamberlain inquired whether teachers received education on safe driving around children cycling to school. An officer clarified that while the Travel for Life Programme and school cycling training primarily target students, teachers are also involved. Ms Chamberlain also questioned why young drivers appeared to be prioritised over young cyclists. The panel was informed that the focus was on the safety of young people, regardless of their chosen mode of transport, due to their disproportionate representation in serious collisions.

A query was raised regarding a school receiving the Gold Standard under the Travel for Life programme, despite ongoing issues with car-related congestion around its school gates during drop-off and pick-up times. An officer explained that the award criteria were based on the number of activities delivered by schools, including the impact on car use, which was measured through a hands-up survey asking pupils about their travel methods.