The Kingston and North Kingston Neighbourhood Committee is scheduled to discuss proposals for permanent traffic management orders in North Kingston, consider objections to a new parking scheme in Dickerage Lane, and review applications for Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) funding. The committee will also consider adopting a refreshed Neighbourhood Community Plan.

North Kingston Area Study - Result of Experimental Traffic Management Order

The committee is set to consider the results of an Experimental Traffic Management Order (ETMO) implemented in King's Road, New Road, and Crescent Road. The trial aimed to support the council's Active Travel and Healthy Streets vision by reducing the impact of motor traffic. While consultation feedback was varied, the report indicates that the one-way schemes on King's Road and New Road received majority support individually. However, the Crescent Road exit only restriction faced significant opposition. The report suggests making the one-way schemes on King's Road and New Road, and the Crescent Road exit only restriction, permanent.

The report notes that Consultation feedback was highly varied. King's Road and New Road one-way measures received majority support from respondents who commented on them individually. Conversely, the Crescent Road 'exit only' restriction was met with significant opposition. ¹ Despite overall negative feedback on the combined package, the data is presented as supporting the scheme's vision and objectives. Key stakeholders, including the Police and TfL Buses, reported no objections or negative impacts on journey times.

Concerns raised by residents included perceived inequality and social division, with some feeling the scheme benefited affluent residents while penalising those in social housing. Traffic re-routing and congestion on arterial roads like Kingston Hill were also highlighted, as were impacts on daily life, essential travel, and local businesses. The report also details operational and logistical challenges faced by businesses, with some stating that external businesses were refusing to service the area due to the restrictions.

Officers' comments suggest that while rerouting can be inconvenient, it ensures greater community benefits. Traffic data analysis indicates a significant decrease in traffic on the internal roads (King's, New, and Crescent Roads) and no corresponding severe spike on main roads, suggesting traffic may be diverting further away or journeys are changing mode. Air pollution modelling suggests negligible changes, and while queue lengths at some junctions have increased, particularly during the AM peak, these are considered tolerable.

The report also addresses enforcement at Crescent Road, noting an administrative error that led to some Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) being cancelled and refunded. It highlights the necessity of camera enforcement due to high contravention levels.

The recommendation is to make the experimental traffic orders for Crescent Road, King's Road, and New Road permanent, acknowledging that the Crescent Road measure has not been popular, particularly with residents of Cumberland House and Kingsnympton Park. However, the scheme is presented as working as intended and aligning with wider council policy.

Dickerage Lane - Introduction of a Parking Scheme

The committee will consider objections to a Traffic Management Order (TMO) for a proposed new Permit Parking Area (PPA) in Warwick Road, Stafford Road, and Lincoln Road. The proposal, which would allow residents and their visitors to obtain parking permits, was approved in principle in September 2025, subject to a statutory TMO consultation. The proposed restrictions are Monday to Saturday, 8:30 am to 6:30 pm.

Three objections and one comment were received during the consultation period. One resident expressed concern about the cost of permits, particularly given the cost of living, and suggested the council address issues with dial-a-ride buses parking on double yellow lines. Another resident, living in a building on Dickerage Lane, stated they were not offered parking when they moved in and would struggle with the new restrictions due to having young children and needing a car for work. A resident from Kingston East objected, arguing the restrictions would unfairly reduce parking for other residents, including those from the Kingston East-Dickerage Lane development, which was agreed to be car free as part of its planning agreement. This objector also noted instances of hostility from residents of Warwick and Stafford Roads towards those from Dickerage Lane.

Officers' response acknowledges the objections regarding permit costs, stating they are essential for administration, enforcement, and maintenance. They also note concerns about parking on double yellow lines and will engage with the parking enforcement team. The report states that the Kingston East development is intended to be car free.

The recommendation is to note the objections and comments, set them aside, and approve the implementation of the TMO, informing objectors of the decision.

Allocation of Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) Funds

The committee will consider applications for Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) funding for projects within the Neighbourhood. NCIL is a charge applied to new developments to fund infrastructure needs. The report details two applications that fall within the micro-scheme threshold of £5,000 or less.

The first application is a supplementary request for £4,930 for the Tudor Library Mindful Garden project. This additional funding is sought due to unexpected expenses, including the discovery of a WWII air raid shelter requiring removal, and for the provisional installation of privacy trellis and an outdoor electric socket. The original project was approved in June 2025.

The second application is for £1,595 for a mural painting project at Elm Road Recreation Ground. The Friends of Elm Road Recreation (FERR) plan to commission new painted murals on seven fence panels that have deteriorated. A park user survey highlighted aesthetic improvements and mural replacement as priorities. The project aims to enhance the appearance of the recreation ground, which has been designated a hot spot for graffiti and anti-social behaviour, and to deter such activity.

The committee is asked to consider whether to allocate the requested NCIL amounts, not allocate them, or award funding in part or defer a decision. Projects not allocated funding are welcome to re-apply.

Neighbourhood Community Plan

The committee will consider and adopt a refreshed Kingston and North Kingston Neighbourhood Community Plan. This plan, developed through a collaborative workshop and member-led review, will serve as the primary document for guiding the allocation of Neighbourhood Community Grant (NCG) funds and prioritising Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) projects.

The Plan aligns with the Council's Greener, Fairer, Safer, Together framework and will be the evidence base for evaluating NCIL and NCG applications. Key priorities include Community-First Project Design, where engagement precedes funding allocation to ensure project sustainability. The plan aims to foster community engagement, build local resilience, and improve well-being and safety.

The refreshed plan prioritises actions such as supporting greening initiatives, enhancing active travel routes, improving local air quality, and maintaining pride in public spaces. It also focuses on addressing youth well-being, promoting social cohesion, ensuring personal safety, and supporting voluntary organisations. The recommendation is to approve the Plan as drafted, or with minor amendments.