Campaign Against West Road Congestion Plan

CAMPAIGNERS HOPE WEST ROAD CAMPAIGN CAN BE PARKED FOR GOOD

2010-11-08T22:16:00.001Z

It may have been a victim of Government cuts but local campaigners took the fight against the West Road scheme to the council chamber to demonstrate to councillors that many people living in the West of the city are opposed to it.

Collected over the course of a single week, the petition was signed by 128 residents – one more than responded the council’s consultation – and almost three times the number that explicitly supported the scheme.
Jason Smith, who has played a leading role in the campaign since it started, told councillors: “Although the scheme appears to have fallen victim to Government cuts, the failure of the council to recognise the lack of support for the scheme is of great concern to local people. In challenging times, this money can be better spent protecting public services.”

Presenting the petition to the council was the last act in a campaign that some claimed had no chance of success. At a local residents association meeting the following day, Jason announced that the campaign would now be halted unless the scheme is resurrected at some point in the future.

Jason said: “I would like to put on record my thanks to the many people who supported the campaign in some way. Many of us have worked hard to expose the impact this scheme would have on residential roads and Stamfordham Road.

“It is likely that a new transport campaign group will take forward the fight to bring the Metro to the Outer West of Newcastle and they will campaign for improvements to the West Road and Stamfordham Road. We will continue to be vigilant.”

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The full text of the petition is:

Stop Claiming Support for the West Road Scheme

In 2009, Newcastle City Council undertook a consultation on the controversial West Road Scheme. The council distributed 50,000 leaflets selling the purported benefits of the scheme and 127 responses were received, only 35 of which supported it. Although the scheme appears to have fallen victim to Government cuts, the failure of the council to recognise the lack of support for the scheme is of great concern to local people.

We the undersigned want to make it clear that we oppose the West Road Scheme which we believe will have a serious impact on the West Road, Stamfordham Road and create rat-runs through residential areas. We are calling on Newcastle City Council to accept that there is no public support for the West Road scheme.

The number of signatures on this petition has been limited as we simply wish to demonstrate the lack of support for the scheme. In challenging times, this money can be better spent protecting public services.

TRANSPORT SECRETARY URGED TO STOP THE WEST ROAD WASTE OF MONEY

2010-07-09T00:07:00.001+01:00

Campaigners have stepped up the fight against the West Road scheme by writing to the Secretary of State for Transport urging him to bin this scheme.

Fight Goes on to Stop the West Road Scheme

2009-09-17T08:44:00.007+01:00

Local campaigner Jason Smith (pictured on Stamfordham Road with Callerton Councillor Will Holloway) has vowed to continue the fight against the controversial West Road traffic plan after it was approved by Lib Dem leaders of Newcastle City Council.

Jason said: “The aim of the scheme is to drive cars off the West Road onto alternative routes by slowing non-bus speeds – but this will be done by increasing congestion.

“Liberal Democrats simply do not understand the impact the West Road scheme will have on Stamfordham Road. Residents’ concerns have so far been ignored.”

Jason added: “The campaign to stop the West Road scheme and save Stamfordham Road will only end when Lib Dem plans are parked for good. The scheme needs to be approved by Ministers before the £13 million of Government funding (10% from Newcastle City Council) is released. We have made it clear that we will fight them all the way to Whitehall.”

The Campaign Against the West Road Congestion Plan has welcomed the pledge of continued commitment from Conservatives and disappointment that Labour and Liberal Democrat Councillors have not joined the fight.

Getting the Outer West Back on Track

2009-07-15T23:33:00.001+01:00

The Campaign Against the West Road Congestion Plan has welcomed the launch of a campaign by Newcastle Conservatives to bring the Tyne and Wear Metro to the Outer West of Newcastle.

Jason Smith, Westerhope spokesman for Newcastle Conservatives, who has taken a leading role in the Campaign Against the West Road Congestion Plan launched the campaign to reinstate parts of the Tyne Valley Line closed as a result of the Beeching Cuts in 1958.
Residents of the Outer West have no access to the Metro, despite contributing through Nexus to the running of the Metro system.

Jason Smith, who is also Chairman of Newcastle Conservatives, said: “We have now demonstrated that Newcastle City Council’s unpopular plans for the West Road will cause problems on the West Road and alternative routes from the Outer West to the city centre. Despite this, Liberal Democrats seem determined to press ahead with their plans.

“The council’s plans for the West Road lack ambition, will create congestion and, as a result of traffic stopping and starting on the road, carbon emissions will increase. Local Conservatives have called for more park and ride facilities across the city to make public transport a positive alternative to using cars. The West Road scheme will not deliver this.

“The development of a light rail or tram service to the Outer West, connected in some way to Park and Ride facilities, would be an attractive alternative for many commuters. Residents of the Outer West simply do not want to see the West Road scheme come to fruition; what they want is to see the Metro come to the area.

“Residents of the Outer West are paying towards the £22million cost of running Metro Operations and £300million for the re-invigoration of the Metro system, which we do not have access to. The Government and Nexus found the money to extend the Metro to the airport and Sunderland. Surely, it is time to bring the Metro in reach of the 80,000 people who live in or near the West End of Newcastle.

“Labour and Liberal Democrat Councillors are faced with a choice. They can unite with us to campaign for a real improvement to public transport in the Outer West or can continue to ignore the needs of people living in the Outer West.”

Local Councillors will not be forgiven if they put Party ahead of residents

2009-05-27T23:43:00.007+01:00

Local Conservatives have repeated their call for Liberal Democrat Councillors in the West End of Newcastle to join Conservatives and local residents in campaigning against the West Road Congestion Corridor.

The call follows publication of the notes of a meeting of Liberal Democrat Councillors in February, which shows clearly that councillors in the West End share the concerns of those campaigning against the West Road Congestion Corridor. Councillors concerns included:

There are too few buses in many parts of the West End, linking to key locations;
The West Road scheme will have a significant impact on the major mode of transport for many people in Newburn Ward;
There is a perceived lack of consultation about previous stages of the West Road scheme;
Traffic could be dispersed onto other routes and create rat-runs;
If the scheme goes ahead, the West Road may cease to exist as a shopping destination.

Jason Smith, Chairman of Newcastle Conservatives, said: “It seems that Liberal Democrat Councillors share our concerns about the Liberal Democrat plans for the West Road. Why are they remaining silent?

“Local residents will not forgive any councillor who puts their party’s interests ahead of theirs.

“Conservatives have made it clear that we believe these plans will cause congestion on the West Road and traffic displaced onto Stamfordham Road will result in more congestion there and slower, less reliable buses for people in many parts of Westerhope and Denton Wards. Conservatives are fighting to stop this scheme and will work with any councillor who wants to join the battle.”

Westerhope Councillor: Is This the Best Value Scheme Newcastle Can Offer?

2009-05-25T19:51:00.000+01:00

The Campaign Against the West Road Congestion Plan has today revealed that a Westerhope Councillor expressed concern about the perceived lack of consultation about previous stages of the West Road scheme.

Councillor Donnelly also asked whether the West Road scheme could be seen as a subsidy to Stagecoach and would stakeholders benefit. He asked whether this would disperse traffic to other areas and was this scheme the best that Newcastle could offer.

Maureen Smith of the Campaign Against the West Road Congestion Plan said: “I find it incredible that, in the notes of a council meeting, Councillor Donnelly seemed to have serious reservations about the scheme. Yet during a Ward Committee meeting, he made it clear that he would not submit an objection to the plans.

“Will Westerhope Councillors join the campaign or continue to stand by plans that will have such a devastating impact on Westerhope Ward?”

Fenham Councillors: West Road May Cease to Exist as a Shopping Destination

2009-05-24T06:49:00.000+01:00

The Campaign Against the West Road Congestion Plan has today revealed that a Fenham Councillor shares the concern of local campaigners about potential rat-running along roads such as Lanercost Drive and Fenham Hall Drive.

Councillor Daglish also has concerns that if the West Road scheme goes ahead, the West Road may cease to exist as a shopping destination.

Maureen Smith of the Campaign Against the West Road Congestion Plan said: “Clearly, Liberal Democrat Councillors in Fenham Ward share our concerns about the Liberal Democrats’ West Road scheme. Residents will be surprised to learn that they have expressed concerns behind closed doors, but have not taken a stand against the plans.

“Will Fenham Councillors join the campaign or stay quiet while the council destroys the quality of life for residents of their ward?”

Newburn Councillors: Significant Impact to Major Mode of Transport

2009-05-22T07:11:00.000+01:00

The Campaign Against the West Road Congestion Plan has today revealed that a Newburn Councillor explained in a meeting on 27 February that there are too few buses in Newburn Ward and that the West Road scheme will have a significant impact on the major mode of transport for many people in the area.

Maureen Smith of the Campaign Against the West Road Congestion Plan said: “Residents of Newburn Ward will be surprised to learn that local Liberal Democrat Councillors have expressed concerns behind closed doors, but have not taken a stand against the plans.

“Will Newburn Councillors join the campaign or put party loyalty ahead of the interests of residents of their ward?”

Westerhope Councillors: Money Could Be Better Spent on Better Bus Services

2009-05-21T13:07:00.000+01:00

The Campaign Against the West Road Congestion Plan has today revealed that Neil Hamilton, Westerhope Councillor, raised questions at a meeting of councillors about whether traffic from the A69 would actually go to Scotswood Road.

Jason Smith, Conservative Spokesman for Westerhope Ward, has already made it clear that traffic will take “the route of least resistance” and is more likely to be displaced onto Stamfordham Road rather than Scotswood Road. Therefore, attempting to gain a few minutes for buses using the West Road could result in less reliable, slower services for residents of West Denton and Westerhope.

In a meeting of councillors behind closed doors on 27 February 2009, Councillor Hillicks said she believed money could be better spent on road signs and better bus services. She pointed out that residents from many parts of Westerhope Ward could only get to hospitals by using their car because many key destinations do not have a bus service from the outer west.

Jason Smith said: “Westerhope’s Liberal Democrat Councillors clearly have concerns about the West Road Congestion Corridor but, for some reason, they seem so far to have chosen to put the interests of Newcastle Liberal Democrat Party ahead of the interests of Westerhope Ward.”

Maureen Smith of the Campaign Against the West Road Congestion Plan said: “While they are talking of their concerns behind closed doors in the civic centre, Local Conservatives are taking action to help people stop this scheme. However, this is a non-party political campaign and, if they choose to fight these plans, we would welcome their support.”

Local Conservatives Challenge Liberal Democrats to Come Clean on Transport

2009-05-20T00:37:00.003+01:00

Local Conservatives have challenged Liberal Democrats to make their views about Bus and No Car Lanes clear in the council chamber. Jason Smith, Chairman of Newcastle Conservatives, challenged Councillor Wendy Taylor to submit a motion to full council rejecting Conservative calls for an independent review of Bus and No Car Lanes and making it clear whether the city council truly believes that its Bus and No Car Lanes are safe and not creating congestion.

Jason Smith, who is also the Conservative spokesman for Westerhope Ward, stated in the letter to Wendy Taylor that: “I challenge you to state on record in the council chamber that you believe every one of your Bus and No Car Lanes are safe and not causing congestion. A Liberal Democrat Council Motion perhaps, stating very clearly that all Bus and No Car Lanes in the city are fit for purpose.”

Jason Smith said: “I think it is unfortunate that Liberal Democrats are saying one thing in public and another in private. I know that LibDems like to keep key decisions secret but, if they think their transport policies are right, why not let the public see the results of an independent review? It is time to come clean about the impact of Liberal Democrat transport policies on the city’s transport infrastructure.

“The West Road plans have brought Newcastle City Council’s policy on transport into sharp focus. Many residents are applauding the Campaign Against the West Road Congestion Plan that Local Conservatives are supporting.

“Councillor Taylor has accused me of distorting facts so I have published some of the information I have on the Newcastle Conservatives website so people can judge for themselves.

“Councillors are either for or against the West Road plans. I know that many Outer West Councillors have reservations about it but, if they do not have the backbone to take a stand against their party, they will be letting down the people who voted for them.

“It is clear to me that, if senior Liberal Democrats have their way, the West Road will be more congested, and buses on Stamforham Road will be more unreliable. Why are local Liberal Democrats afraid to take a stand against the West Road Congestion Plan?”

Published papers:

This document produced for the council shows that one of the original objectives for the West Road transit corridor was to reduce the speed of non-bus traffic to 15mph, increasing journey times to the city centre by up to 10 minutes.
These notes of a meeting on 27 September 2007 shows the stated objectives of the scheme were changed.

Tell Them What You Think!

2009-05-19T00:15:00.005+01:00

It is still not too late to tell the council what you think of its proposals. You can do this by:

Signing the campaign's petition.
Attending one of the information sessions (listed in the righthand box).
Telling the council what you think - please email a copy of your response to campaign@westroad.org.uk.

Evidence Published

2009-05-18T23:55:00.003+01:00

A senior Liberal Democrat suggested recently that the West Road plan would increase car journey times by less than 5 minutes.

In response, local Conservatives have published a document produced for the council that shows one of the original objectives for the West Road transit corridor was to reduce the speed of non-bus traffic to 15mph, increasing journey times to the city centre by up to 10 minutes. Conservatives have also published the notes of a meeting that shows this was later removed from the stated objectives.

The Campaign Against the West Road Congestion Plan understands that Conservatives will be releasing further documents.

Stamfordham Road Will Pay for the West Road Scheme

2009-05-16T00:59:00.003+01:00

The West Road Congestion Corridor could have a significant impact on bus services using Stamfordham Road say Newcastle Conservatives.

The plan is to turn one of the lanes of the West Road into a bus lane, restricting cars, taxis and commercial vehicles to one lane to redirect traffic heading to the city centre onto other routes. Although the council is bidding for £13million from the Government to pay for the scheme, it will have to contribute at least 10% of the cost – equal to the Band A council tax for 1,500 households.

Jason Smith, Chairman of Newcastle Conservatives, said: “I believe the council’s plans, supported by senior Liberal Democrats, will cause havoc on the West Road. Traffic will be displaced onto other routes in the outer west and the existing traffic problems on Stamfordham Road will be made worse, adding to rush hour traffic through Westerhope Village.

“To potentially speed up bus services on the West Road by no more than a few minutes, traffic planners are likely to make bus journeys to and from most parts of Westerhope Ward longer and less reliable. I have invited Liberal Democrat councillors to join me in campaigning against this scheme.”

Tell them what you think!

2009-04-30T13:50:00.000+01:00

Newcastle City Council has organised a public meeting and a number of information sessions to share their plans for the West Road.

The public meeting is planned for Thursday 30 April at the West Denton Community Assocation (map), Hillhead Road, Newcastle at 6pm. It follows an information session for residents of Denton and Westerhope Wards between 5pm and 6pm but open to anyone interested in the council's congestion plan.

Other information sessions:

Thursday 14 May 3pm to 8pm - Denton Burn Library, West Road
Thursday 19 May 6pm - Blucher Methodist Church, Blucher Village (Newburn Ward)
Wednesday 20 May 3pm to 8pm - Westgate Centre for Sport, West Road
Thursday 21 May 3pm to 8pm - Westgate Hub
Thursday 28 May 6pm - Waverley Primary School, Maple Drive, Dumpling Hall (Lemington Ward)
Thursday 28 May 6pm - Fenham Library, Fenham Hall Drive (Blakelaw Ward)

Please also sign our petition at http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/newcastle-upon-tyne-west-road-corridor-plan.html

West End Councillors Should End Their Silence and Support the Campaign

2009-04-30T02:03:00.001+01:00

West Road campaigner, Jason Smith, has responded to a letter from Wendy Taylor, the senior Liberal Democrat councillor behind the West Road congestion plan.

Jason Smith said: “Wendy Taylor needs to ask some of her Liberal Democrat colleagues in the East of the City what they think of traffic management in the city. They think LibDems are winning no brownie points on traffic management in this city and I agree with them.

“One Liberal Democrat Councillor representing a ward not far from Councillor Taylor believes that 'new schemes do little to help traffic flow and often cause congestion' and that they do not 'make it easier, safer or more pleasant for pedestrians' - interestingly, these are the benefits that the city council is now promoting to residents about the West Road. It is little wonder, therefore, that Liberal Democrats in the West of the City, along with Newcastle’s Labour Party, have remained silent on the issue.

“Councillor Taylor should be prepared to listen to her colleagues and accept our proposal for an independent review of all No Car Lanes in Newcastle. I note she made no mention of this in her letter. Does she believe Newcastle’s No Car Lanes are safe and not causing more congestion?

“If Councillor Taylor won’t listen to her colleagues about the problems with existing No Car Lanes, what confidence can the residents of the west end have that she will listen to their views?

“I urge LibDem Councillors to join Local Conservatives in campaigning against the council's plans.”

They – and any local resident or commuter – can sign the online petition at www.westroad.org.uk or contact us on 0191 215 9732 to be sent a paper copy of the petition.

Local Conservatives have written to Barry Rowland, Acting Chief Executive of Newcastle City Council, to complain that the council has failed to respond to a Freedom of Information request about the West Road scheme.

The council had been asked for copies of council documents and correspondence relating to the its plans to develop a transit corridor. The request was sent to the council on 11 March 2009 and, since the request was submitted, the council has announced its intention to press ahead with the scheme.

Jason Smith said: “The council seems very reluctant to release the papers that should back this claim. We already know that the LibDems are saying one thing to residents and another to each other about the impact of their No Car Lanes. What is Newcastle City Council trying to hide from West End residents?”

Liberal Democrats Winning No Brownie Points on Transport

2009-04-23T22:44:00.001+01:00

Local Conservative campaigners have staged a demonstration to highlight Liberal Democrat plans for the West Road that many residents believe will make congestion worse and to urge commuters and local residents to fight the plans.

Jason Smith, Chairman of Newcastle Conservatives, said: “We are campaigning to bring these plans to the attention of local people. We believe the plans for the West Road are like using a sledgehammer to crack a nut.

“We do need to encourage people to cycle and to improve crossing areas but this should not be at the price of the chaos that these plans will create.

“Anti-car Liberal Democrats have publicly flip-flopped on this issue. LibDems appeared to drop plans for the West Road corridor when Conservatives made it an issue in the Fenham By-election. We highlighted the impact of displaced traffic onto residential streets in Fenham and Benwell & Scotswood Wards, and the likely impact on Stamfordham Road of vehicles using that as the most likely alternative route. However, now that the Fenham By-election is over, they have resurrected the plans. Just goes to show that people should take what they read in LibDem leaflets with a pinch of salt.

“We will continue to highlight the impact of these plans on all road users and call on Newcastle City Council to organise public meetings to let residents have their say.”

Local Conservatives have campaigned for more park and ride facilities in Newcastle, accusing Liberal Democrats of a lack of ambition. Conservatives have pointed to Durham and Nottingham where park and ride connected by dedicated express bus or tram systems have made public transport a viable alternative for commuters.

Jason Smith added: “Liberal Democrats seem disinterested in working with neighbouring authorities to develop park and ride facilities to reduce traffic through the west end of Newcastle. Their plans for the West Road will punish motorists and create rat-runs.

“We have made it clear that many of the No Car Lanes in Newcastle are dangerous or have increased congestion since they were introduced and have called for a review of all No Car Lanes in the city.

“You don’t need to take my word for it. Even one senior Liberal Democrat has said that new transport schemes ‘do little to help traffic flow and often cause congestion’ and that they do not make it ‘easier, safer or more pleasant for pedestrians’.

“Liberal Democrats are not winning many brownie points on traffic management at present and the time has come for change.”

Local Conservatives are backing the Campaign Against the West Road Congestion Plan. Sign the petition at: http://www.westroad.org.uk/.

Do Local Liberal Democrats Support the West Road Congestion Plan?

2009-04-18T00:57:00.000+01:00

Local Conservatives have condemned a decision by Newcastle's Liberal Democrats to press ahead with controversial plans that will create congestion on the West Road.

Jason Smith, Chairman of Newcastle Conservatives, said: “This comes despite a claim by Newcastle Liberal Democrats that they had dropped the plans in October, shortly before the Fenham By-election. Yet just a few months later, when the Fenham By-election is safely behind them, Liberal Democrats dust off their plans for the West Road.

“When one of the lanes was blocked for a week due to pavement repairs, traffic was backed up the West Road in rush hour and blocked the A1 roundabout. If they succeed in implementing the plans, Newcastle City Council will make this the norm.

“Local Conservatives are opposed to these plans, which are being taken forward without any consultation with residents living in outer west wards and we are calling on Liberal Democrats to publish the traffic survey results and business case for the West Road plans.

“We believe that Newcastle City Council needs to work with Nexus and the Integrated Transport Authority to make public transport a more attractive option for commuters but LibDems have instead opted to penalise motorists.

“According to council documents, non-bus traffic on the West Road will be slowed to 15mph and, therefore, take up to 10 minutes longer to get to the city centre, which can only be achieved by making congestion worse. Now that their plans for the West Road have been made public, LibDem councillors in Denton, Fenham, Lemington, Newburn and Westerhope Wards should make their position clear. Do they support these plans?”

Sign the petition here or download a copy for others to sign.

Are Liberal Democrats Pushing Ahead With Their Congestion Plan?

2009-04-02T00:54:00.001+01:00

Council papers reveal that the West Road Congestion Plan, or transit corridor as the council calls it, is still being developed, say Local Conservatives.

Liberal Democrats indicated that plans had been dropped in late 2008, just weeks before the Fenham Ward By-election. However, papers about the Benwell & Scotswood Area Action Plan presented to Newcastle’s full council meeting yesterday reveal that the council still has plans to implement the West Road congestion corridor.

Jason Smith, Chairman of Newcastle Conservatives, said: “Only this week, roadworks – which have taken a small part of the dual carriageway out of action – has led to tailbacks onto the roundabout junction with the A1. The havoc that would be created if a longer stretch of the dual carriageway was effectively converted to a single lane for cars cannot be underestimated.

“Conservatives have consistently argued that this plan will cause chaos on the West Road. It seems that Liberal Democrats may have put their plans for the West Road Congestion Plan on the back burner and now that the Fenham By-election is over, they have dusted them off. If this is correct, LibDem Councillors have shown that they cannot be trusted by the voters.

“According to a report commissioned by the council, creating a No Car Lane on the West Road will increase journey times to the city centre for non-public transport traffic by up to 10 minutes. We are against council plans to deliberately create congestion to force commuters out of their cars.

“We are backing the Campaign Against the West Road Congestion Plan and are calling on John Shipley, Leader of the Liberal Democrats in Newcastle and Nick Forbes, Leader of the Labour Group, to tell the travelling public whether or not they support the West Road transit corridor plan.

“Local Conservatives believe these plans need to be parked for good.”

Newcastle Conservatives Call for Review of No Car Lanes

2008-12-29T00:49:00.001Z

Newcastle Conservatives have called for a review of all No Car Lanes in the city. For more information, go to: http://www.newcastle-conservatives.co.uk/index.php?sectionid=3&pagenumber=237

WEST ROAD CONGESTION PLANS EXPOSED

2008-12-12T23:50:00.000Z

Papers obtained by the Campaign Against the West Road Corridor Plan show that Newcastle City Council planned to cut speed limits on the West Road to 15mph by removing one of the lanes of the dual carriageway.

The papers reveal that, at a meeting on 14 September 2007 between Nexus and Newcastle City Council officers, Stagecoach and WSP Development and Transportation, it was agreed that “reducing non bus speeds should be dropped from the stated project aims” but it is clear that increasing journey times for cars, taxis and commercial vehicles travelling to the city centre by 5 to 10 minutes remains an objective of the scheme.

Campaign chairman, Jon Aydon, said: “The speed limit on the West Road is 30mph in some places and 40mph in others. The council’s transport department has designed some parts of the West Road in a way that causes congestion. Yet, without any public debate, they want to slow the flow of traffic even more and this will increase journey times from the outer west to the city centre by up to 10 minutes.

“The decision to hide one of the objectives for the West Road scheme at a meeting between council officers, Nexus and a local bus company will come as a great surprise to the people who are supporting our campaign. Councillors must come clean about the reasons for hiding the true plan from the public.

“The west of the city has no access to the Metro and we need to find ways to encourage a positive change to commuting. To do this, we need real time information at bus stops, more express bus services and at least one park and ride facility linked to the city centre by an express bus service.”

Jon Aydon has confirmed that the campaign will continue as the Campaign Against the West Road Congestion Plan. He added: “Until it is confirmed in writing by Newcastle City Council, we will continue to believe that Liberal Democrats and council officers are working behind the scenes to develop their congestion corridor plan.”

Jason Smith, Chairman of Newcastle Conservatives, said: “Why is Newcastle City Council so keen to hide its anti-car plans? Either they are planning to introduce a no car or bus lane or they are not but Liberal Democrats must come clean about their plans for the West Road.

“The LibDems seem to think that forcing people out of their cars through car parking charge hikes, changes to residents’ permit arrangements and traffic management policies is better than finding ways to encourage a positive change in behaviour. Whilst preaching to the rest of us about using public transport, LibDem councillors were enjoying free parking at the civic centre!

“If they are willing to hide the impact of their corridor plan on non bus traffic, what else are they not telling us? It is time for Newcastle’s residents to be able to hold civic leaders to account for decisions they make on our behalf.”

LIB DEMS WASTE COUNCIL OFFICERS' TIME

2008-10-28T22:24:00.001Z

Local Conservatives are calling for more transparency after a Liberal Democrat councillor admitted that important decisions were being made behind closed doors.

Councillor Pat Hillicks made the admission in an exchange of correspondence in the Evening Chronicle with the chairman of Newcastle Conservatives. She confirmed that proposals for a park and ride scheme to be developed on the former Lemington Middle School site had been shelved at one of these closed meetings for political reasons.

Jon Aydon, Chairman of the Campaign Against the West Road Corridor Plan, has accused Liberal Democrats of wasting council officers’ time on a scheme that was never going to win the support of LibDem Councillors.

He said: “If Liberal Democrats in the west end were opposed to the development of a park and ride facility at the former Lemington Middle School site, why did senior Liberal Democrats not stop council officers from working up proposals?

“From council correspondence I have seen, it is clear that they were determined to press ahead regardless of the opposition from their own backbenchers. If backbenchers like Pat Hillicks were so opposed to the scheme, months of work for council officers could have been saved.”

JON AYDON CHALLENGES LIBERAL DEMOCRAT COUNCILLORS

2008-10-28T22:16:00.002Z

Jon Aydon, Chairman of the Campaign Against the West Road Corridor Plan, has challenged Liberal Democrats to make the status of the West Road plans clear and to publish the results of their secret vote on the issue at a future group meeting.

In his letter to Councillor Hillicks published in the Evening Chronicle, Jon Aydon said: "Pat Hillicks’ letter (We’ll Stand Up for the West Road, 22 October) seems at odds with the recent FOCUS leaflet distributed in Fenham.

"The Fenham FOCUS suggests the West Road corridor plan has been dropped by Newcastle City Council and Nexus, but there has been no official confirmation from the council about the status of the scheme. Perhaps it has simply been put on the back burner until after the Fenham by-election?

"Coun Hillicks seems to think the council plans for the West Road are simply proposals.
Perhaps she has not read the local transport plan, which states clearly that the development of the West Road corridor will be included in the first phase.

"The plans for the West Road have been in development for some time. I am surprised she does not know this, as she said at the Westerhope Ward committee meeting that she had viewed the council plans at the Denton Burn Library early this year.

"I note that, so far, none of the Liberal Democrat councillors have agreed to support the campaign against the West Road corridor. Coun Hillicks makes it clear that the West Road will be subject to a vote by the Lib Dems. I believe, in the spirit of openness, the results of this vote should be published. Is Coun Hillicks prepared to make this commitment so her support or opposition can be voiced very loudly?

"It is vital we send a clear message to councillors. You can do this by signing our petition at www.westroad.org.uk."

LOCAL CAMPAIGNER JON AYDON TO HEAD THE CAMPAIGN

2008-10-09T23:21:00.001+01:00

Jon Aydon, the local campaigner who fought to try to save the Walbottle Village Post Office, will take a lead role in the campaign against council plans for the West Road, the Campaign Against the West Road Corridor Plan has announced today.

Sarah Armstrong, who launched the campaign on 11 September, said: "The campaign is winning wide support. I am delighted that Jon Aydon will now lead the campaign against Labour and Liberal Democrat plans to cause misery for residents of the west end. He is an experienced campaigner who is determined to stop the no car lane being imposed without public support and wants to see the development of sensible plans to encourage people out of their cars and onto public transport."

The new Chairman of the Campaign Against the West Road Corridor Plan, Jon Aydon, said: "Senior Liberal Democrats seem determined to press ahead with their plans regardless of public views. I will work with Newcastle Conservatives to help residents in the west end to find their voice to oppose these foolish plans, as I did in Walbottle over the post office closure."

DOWNLOAD THE PETITION FOR FRIENDS TO SIGN

2008-09-26T23:18:00.003+01:00

As well as the online petition, the Campaign Against the West Road Corridor Plan is collecting signatures from residents of Newcastle who will be affected by Newcastle City Council's plans.

You can download and print the petition by clicking here.

Please return signed copies to the Campaign Against the West Road Corridor Plan, c/o Newcastle Conservatives, Benton House, Front Street, Four Lane Ends, Newcastle upon Tyne NE7 7UJ.

WEST ROAD CORRIDOR PLAN WILL CAUSE MISERY ON RESIDENTIAL STREETS

2008-09-26T22:55:00.001+01:00

The West Road Corridor Plan will slow the flow of traffic on the vital artery into the city centre, leading to lengthened bus journey times and additional traffic on residential streets in Fenham, say Local Conservatives.

Newcastle Conservatives are also claiming that Liberal Democrat councillors are split on the scheme. Email correspondence obtained by Newcastle Conservatives show that Lemington and Westerhope Councillors have serious reservations about some aspects of the bus corridor proposal, whilst senior LibDems appear determined to press ahead.

Jason Smith, Chairman of Newcastle Conservatives, said: “Most of the proposed measures from the A1 roundabout to the Fox and Hounds are simply not required. Instead of working with bus companies to deliver improved bus services, Newcastle City Council seems determined to force commuters out of their cars. However, the plan will increase congestion on the West Road and deliver increases in journey times for buses.

“It is likely that traffic will be displaced onto Stamfordham Road, causing chaos there.

“It is likely that Lanercost Drive and Netherby Drive, and other residential streets in Fenham Ward will face a dramatic increase in traffic, causing chaos there.

“One Liberal Democrat Councillor has expressed concern that councillors are being railroaded into accepting the proposals ‘for the greater good’ of Tyne and Wear. It appears that some Liberal Democrats are concerned about the way in which council officers are making decisions.

“I believe councillors are elected to make sure the council responds to the needs of residents. Who does run Newcastle City Council: councillors or council officers?

“I call on LibDems who are opposed to these proposals to develop a backbone and join the Campaign Against the West Road Corridor Plan.”

FACEBOOK GROUP

2008-09-24T00:12:00.000+01:00

To go to the Campaign Against the West Road Corridor Plan Facebook Group, click here.

HIGHWAYS AGENCY FAILS TO CONSULT RESIDENTS ON CHANGE TO SPEED LIMIT ON A69

2008-09-23T22:56:00.000+01:00

Barry Flux of Newcastle Conservatives has condemned the Highways Agency for its failure to properly consult residents on the change to speed limits.

In the official notice advising of the planned speed reduction from 70mph to 50mph, the Highways Agency referred interested parties to information available at the Denton Burn Library but staff at the library claimed they had not received this information.

Barry Flux said: “It is incredible that the only way to find out why the Highways Agency is proposing to change the speed limit on the A69 is to go to Denton Burn Library, only to find the information is not there.

“The new speed limit signs have already been in place for some time, even though the deadline for responses from members of the public was Friday 19 September. The proposals will increase the speed limit from 40mph to 50mph for a short stretch of the road that runs past the remains of the Hadrian’s Wall.

“It seems to me that, like the recent post office consultation, the Highways Agency consultation is a sham. There may well be a case for changing the speed limit but the failure to provide the public with the background information is a clear breach of process and potentially open to challenge.

“The Highways Agency should be open with residents about the reason for changes of this kind and I am calling on them to publish the information on their website about all changes to speed limits.”

NEWCASTLE CONSERVATIVES BACK CAMPAIGN

2008-09-12T23:06:00.000+01:00

Newcastle Conservatives have thrown their weight behind the Campaign Against the West Road Corridor Plan.

Sarah Armstrong, the Local Conservative candidate for Lemington Ward in May’s local elections who established the campaign, said: “The existing No Car Lane on the westbound side of the West Road is a good example of the impact of removing half the capacity of the road. The No Car Lane, combined with a bad junction, has caused havoc since it was introduced and may well be responsible for accidents at its junction with Slatyford Lane / Broadwood Road.

“Now, the city council wants to create a No Car Lane on the eastbound stretch to create the same chaos for traffic heading towards the city centre. It is not surprising that some residents are speculating that, by increasing congestion, LibDems will be able to make a local road user charging scheme more acceptable to the public.”

Jason Smith, Chairman of Newcastle Conservatives, said: “Residents of the outer west have no access to the Metro service and they have to rely on over-crowded buses in rush hour. In my opinion, the slow progress of bus services along the West Road is caused by the number of bus stops and passengers getting on and off the bus, not the flow of traffic.

“I am inviting councillors for wards affected by this proposal to join with us in campaigning against the West Road corridor plan and for a better deal for all road users in the west end. Senior Liberal Democrats in Newcastle cannot impose this plan on the west end if local councillors stand with us to fight on behalf of local residents against this proposal.”

ONLINE PETITION LAUNCHED

2008-09-11T22:57:00.000+01:00

The Campaign Against the West Road Corridor Plan has launched an online petition and are urging residents to sign. http://www.gopetition.com/online/21817.html

CAMPAIGN AGAINST WEST ROAD CORRIDOR PLAN IS LAUNCHED

2008-09-11T22:15:00.000+01:00

A campaign has been established to improve the West Road for all road users and to stop the development of a No Car Lane that will make congestion worse.

A bus improvement corridor is proposed along the West Road. However, road users have expressed concern about the potential loss of 50% capacity on the dual carriageway and this may displace some of the traffic onto other routes, such as Stamfordham Road. Alongside this, there are discussions about developing a Park and Ride facility on the former Lemington Middle School site, which will put additional pressure onto Union Hall Road in Lemington.

The campaign’s aims are to put pressure on Newcastle City Council to:

Stop the introduction of a No Car Lane on the eastbound side of the West Road;
Develop proposals for Park and Ride facilities that are fit for purpose, including at least one site that is to the west of the Lemington Road Ends junction of the A69;
Improve the flow of traffic along Scotswood Road so it becomes a viable alternative to the West Road.