Public Document Pack
Councillor Sandra Macdonald, Chair; Councillor Peter Argyle and Dr Margaret Bochel, Vice Chairs, and Councillor David Aitchison, Colin Allanach, Stephen Archer, Gale Beattie, Councillor Philip Bell, Councillor John Cox, Gerry Donald, George Mair, Councillor Avril MacKenzie, Councillor Alex Nicoll, Councillor Colin Pike and Ian Ross
Aberdeen City Council Substitute Members:- Councillors Ross Grant, Ryan Houghton, Michael Hutchison and Ian Yuill.
Aberdeenshire Council Substitute Members:- Councillors George Carr, Martin Ford, Ian Mollison and Gillian Owen
Please note that a substitute member may only participate in the meeting when a substantive member is absent.
Should you require further information regarding the Agenda, please contact Rab Dickson 01224 346680 NORTH EAST OF SCOTLAND TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP
Meeting of Board (Committee Room 1 Woodhill House, Aberdeen)
WEDNESDAY, 12 FEBRUARY 2020 at 2.00 pm.
AGENDA
1 Housekeeping
1.1 Declarations of Interest
1.2 Minute of Previous Board Meeting of 11 December 2019, for Approval (Pages 3 - 10)
2 Presentation by Jillian Evans, Public Health, NHS Grampian
3 Budget Matters
3.1 2019/20 Budget Matters (Update and Potential Change to Provisions on RTP Finance) (Pages 11 - 20)
3.2 2020/21 Budget Proposals (Pages 21 - 32)
4 Strategy 4.1 Director's Report (Pages 33 - 36)
4.2 Strategic Development Plan - Reporter of Examination (Pages 37 - 44)
4.3 National Transport Strategy (Verbal - Due for Publication 5 February 2020)
4.4 Regional Transport Strategy 2040 Update (Progress Report) (Pages 45 - 46)
5 Projects
5.1 eCargo Bikes Project (Pages 47 - 48)
5.2 Insch Railway Station Accessibility (Pages 49 - 58)
5.3 Rail Matters Update (Pages 59 - 60)
6 Action Plans
6.1 Health and Transport Action Plan Annual Report (Pages 61 - 84)
7 General
7.1 Progress Report (Pages 85 - 124)
7.2 EU Funding and Programmes (Pages 125 - 128)
7.3 Publications and Consultations (Pages 129 - 140)
8 Information Bulletin (Pages 141 - 144)
9 Conferences and Presentations (Pages 145 - 146)
10 Pending Business and Reports for Future Meetings (Pages 147 - 148)
Should you require any further information about this agenda, please contact Mark Masson, email [email protected], or telephone 01224 522989 Agenda Item 1.2
NORTH EAST OF SCOTLAND TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP
Minute of Meeting of the North East Scotland Transport Partnership Board
Aberdeen, Wednesday, 11 December 2019
Present: Councillor Sandra Macdonald (Chairperson); Councillor Peter Argyle and Dr Maggie Bochel (Vice Chairs); and Councillors David Aitchison, Philip Bell, John Cox, Avril MacKenzie and Colin Pike; Colin Allanach, Gerry Donald and Ian Ross.
In Attendance: Rab Dickson, Kirsty Chalmers and Kelly Wiltshire (Nestrans); Gale Beattie, Mark Masson and Robert Templeton (Aberdeen City Council) and Ewan Wallace (Aberdeenshire Council).
Apologies: Councillor Alex Nicoll, Stephen Archer, George Mair, Chris Smith and Alan Wood.
Please note that if any changes are made to this minute at the point of approval, these will be outlined in the subsequent minute and this document will not be retrospectively altered.
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
1. There were no declarations of interest intimated.
MINUTE OF BOARD MEETING OF 6 NOVEMBER 2019
2. The Board had before it the minute of its previous meeting of 6 November 2019, for approval.
The Board resolved:- to approve the minute as a correct record.
MINUTE OF MEETING OF THE APPOINTMENT COMMITTEE OF 18 NOVEMBER 2019
3. The Board had before it the minute of meeting of the Appointment Committee of 18 November 2019, for noting.
The Board resolved:- to note the minute.
Page 3 2
NORTH EAST OF SCOTLAND TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP 11 December 2019
2019/20 BUDGET
4. The Board had before it a report which provided an update on the Partnership’s 2019/20 budget monitoring and forecast outturn position.
The report recommended:- that the Board – (a) note the monitoring position and forecast presented in Appendix 1 of the report; and (b) approve the virements presented in Appendix 2 of the report.
Rab Dickson highlighted the main points for members’ attention.
The Board resolved:- (i) that further details regarding the costs relating to Carbon Reduction and Air Quality in Appendix 1 be provided to members before the next meeting; and (ii) to otherwise approve the recommendations.
DIRECTOR'S REPORT
5. The Board had before it a report by the Director of Nestrans, which provided an update on liaison activity with other RTP’s, the Scottish Government and other organisations.
The report recommended:- that the Board note the progress on liaison arrangements with other RTP’s, the Scottish Government and others and the arrangements for future meetings.
The Director highlighted amongst other items, the following areas for members’ attention:- RTP Lead Officers Group, Aberdeen, 7 November 2019; and Bus Alliance Board, Aberdeen, 25 November 2019.
The Director also indicated that the Regional Economic Strategy workshop in Aberdeen on 5 December 2019 had been well attended by approximately 30 key stakeholders and that climate change was the key theme for discussion.
Gale Beattie provided an update in relation to Low Emission Zone funding, explaining that an additional £35,000 had been received and that meetings were being held on a regular basis.
Councillor Argyle made reference to the Northern Roads Collaboration Joint Committee, advising that it was leading the way in Scotland in terms of activity. He indicated that the use of plastic materials in road surfacing had been discussed at the last meeting in Aberdeen on 29 November 2019.
The Board resolved:- Page 4 3
NORTH EAST OF SCOTLAND TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP 11 December 2019
to note the information provided and approve the recommendation.
REGIONAL TRANSPORT STRATEGY PROGRESS AND UPDATE (RATIFICATION OF ANY DECISIONS FROM INFORMAL WORKSHOP)
6. The Board had before it a report which set out the intention for a workshop discussion for Board members on 11 December 2019 and provided the opportunity to propose and make decisions based on the discussions at the preceding workshop. The report also provided a summary of the recent Health Inequalities Impact Assessment workshop held on 22 November 2019 to assess the potential health impacts of the RTS.
The report recommended:- that the Board – (a) agree any recommendations relating to the development of the strategy will be identified and discussed at the preceding workshop; (b) note the findings of the Health Inequalities Impact Assessment workshop.
Kirsty Chalmers provided details of the decisions which required to be ratified from the workshop.
The Board resolved:- (i) that following the announcement that the final National Transport Strategy (NTS2) would be published at the end of January 2020, to amend the timescales of the RTS so that a draft RTS now be presented to the Board in April 2020 rather than February 2020 as previously proposed; (ii) to hold two North East Transport Consultative Forum (NETCF) meetings, one around February/March, prior to a draft RTS being published and one around May/June once a draft RTS has been published for consultation; and (iii) to explore opportunities for a trip to Belfast for Board members and relevant officers to see and hear more about the Glider Bus Rapid Transit system operating there.
2017/18 – 2018/19 ANNUAL REPORT
7. The Board had before it a report which sought consideration of a combined draft Nestrans Annual Report for 2017/18 to 2018/19 and Business Plan for 2019/20.
The report recommended:- that the Board – (a) consider the draft 2017/18 – 2018/19 Annual Report and Business Plan 2019/20; (b) approve immediate publication on the Nestrans website of the statements within Appendix 2 that are required under the Public Services Reform (Scotland) Act 2010; (c) approve publication of this report on the Nestrans website once the design has been completed; and
Page 5 4
NORTH EAST OF SCOTLAND TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP 11 December 2019
(d) instruct a link to the published report to be sent to Scottish Ministers and the Chief Executives at Aberdeen City Council and Aberdeenshire Council.
The Director highlighted the main issues from the report.
The Board resolved:- (i) that officers consider producing an executive summary to be made publicly available; and (ii) to otherwise approve the recommendations following various minor amendments to the documents.
PARK & RIDE MONITORING
8. The Board had before it a report which provided information on the usage of the region’s bus-based Park & Ride sites.
The report recommended:- that the Board note the report, including the results of the Park & Ride monitoring and the numbers visiting the Park & Ride website.
The Board were advised that there were some concerns relating to the lighting and general safety at the Newtonhill Park & Ride, noting that discussions had been held with Aberdeenshire Council officers in this regard.
The Board resolved:- (i) that arrangements be made for a press release in relation to the positive messages in the report around Park & Ride and also the new www.Getaboutbyparkandride.org.uk website; and (ii) to otherwise approve the recommendation.
PROGRESS REPORT
9. The Board had before it a progress report which outlined the status of various activities in support of the Regional Transport Strategy.
Councillor Argyle made reference to Insch Railway station, specifically in terms of an email he had received recently. He advised that Nestrans remains committed to looking at options to improve accessibility and will continue to work with Transport Scotland in this regard.
The Board resolved:- to note the content of the progress report.
Page 6 5
NORTH EAST OF SCOTLAND TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP 11 December 2019
PUBLICATIONS AND CONSULTATIONS
10. The Board had before it a report which provided information on the recent publications and consultation papers of interest and sought to agree a response where appropriate.
The report recommended:- that the Board – (a) note the response contained in Appendix A to Aberdeenshire Council’s consultation on supported public transport and homologate officers’ comments; (b) note the response to the Scottish Government’s The role of Public Sector Bodies in Tackling Climate Change: A Consultation and homologate officers’ comments in Appendix B; and (c) note the publication of the Clean Air for Scotland Consultation and endorse the comments above as Nestrans’ input to the draft Review of CAFS.
The Board resolved:- to approve the recommendations.
INFORMATION BULLETIN
11. The Board had before it a report that provided information and updates on a number of matters not requiring decisions.
The report recommended:- that the Board note the content of the report.
The Director made reference to the following:- the Getabout Update; Climate Change Reporting Update; Berryden Corridor Improvement; Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan; Insch Accessibility Study; and Aberdeenshire Council - Integrated Travel Towns.
The Board resolved:- to approve the recommendation.
CONFERENCES AND PRESENTATIONS
12. The Board had before it a list of recent and forthcoming conferences of interest to Nestrans.
The Board resolved:- to note the content of the list. Page 7 6
NORTH EAST OF SCOTLAND TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP 11 December 2019
PENDING BUSINESS AND REPORTS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS
13. The Board had before it a report which (1) provided information on the progress on pending business and major reports scheduled for forthcoming Board meetings; and (2) provided the opportunity for the Board to add to or amend the scheduling.
Future Reports:- Consideration of Delegated Powers; Health & Transport Action Plan Update and Annual Report; Publication of National Transport Strategy; Draft Regional Transport Strategy 2040; Alex Hynes of ScotRail Alliance (invited to April meeting).
The report recommended:- that the Board note the report on pending business and agree the provisional scheduling of major reports to future Board meetings.
The Board resolved:- to approve the recommendation. - COUNCILLOR SANDRA MACDONALD, Chairperson
Page 8 7
NORTH EAST OF SCOTLAND TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP 11 December 2019
Page 9 This page is intentionally left blank
Page 10 Agenda Item 3.1
NORTH EAST TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP – 12 FEBRUARY 2020
3.1 2019/20 Budget Matters
Purpose of Report
To provide the Board with an update on the Partnership’s 2019/20 monitoring and forecast outturn position and to consider any budget or monitoring issues that may arise.
Background
The Board has requested that a general budget report be submitted to each meeting, monitoring expenditure, identifying any potential budget issues, and reporting on any particular expenditure requests. The reports are prepared jointly by the Nestrans office and Finance officers from Aberdeenshire Council.
Current Revenue & Capital Budget
Appendix 1 to this report sets out a summary budget monitoring statement of expenditure to 31 December 2019. This shows expenditure of £1,302,695.
Transport (Scotland) Act 2019 - RTP Finance provisions
The Transport (Scotland) Act received Royal Assent on 15 November 2019. The Scottish Government have written to Local Authority Directors of Finance to seek their views as to whether the provisions on Regional Transport Partnership finance (section 122) to hold a General Fund reserve should be commenced sometime during the current financial year. The letter advises that Councils would not be required to make any additional grant payments in 2019/20 where actual expenses exceed the initial estimate, nor will RTPs receive back any grant not required in 2019/20. The deadline for responses is 11 February 2020 and there is therefore potential that the revised financial arrangements may apply during the current financial year 2019/20, but at present there is no certainty as to the commencement date of the section 122 provisions.
Virements
Following a meeting with representatives from the two councils, an updated position was provided with a number of schemes underspending. Instead of requesting them all to be carried forward it was agreed to transfer a number of these budgets towards Kintore Station so that it will reduce the budget requirement for Kintore next year. Please see Appendix 2 for a breakdown of the virements.
Delay in Drawdown
If the virements are approved, Appendix 3 sets out the remaining projects where a request for delay in drawdown is being put forward, they total £3,869,924. The biggest ones are Kintore Station, £2,756,268 as the majority of costs will be incurred in 2020/21, and Craigshaw Drive Cycle Route, £450,000 which has been delayed pending Sustrans acceptance of conditions they applied being met prior to providing the match funding allocated for construction through the 2019/20 Paths for Everyone Fund, but the latest minor design amendments have been submitted by Aberdeen City Council and it is expected that funding will be released to enable construction in 2020/21.
Page 11 Capital funding is drawn down from the partner councils once the expenditure has been incurred. However revenue funding is provided in regular monthly instalments. There is £142,200 of virements detailed on Appendix 2, and a number of small underspends forecast within the revenue section. This has culminated in a forecast operating surplus of £154,709 as shown on Appendix 1. Should the Board approve the virements mentioned above then the operating surplus will reduce to only £12,509.
Grant Funding
Sustrans CDO grant Sustrans provide grant each year of up to £100,000 associated with the joint cycling development officer post that is funded by Nestrans. This grant can continue to be claimed until mid May and previously the Board agreed to the delay in draw down of £99,417 from 2018/19 to purchase and install cycle counters in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. It has since been discovered by the cycling development officer that applications can be made to Cycling Scotland to install counters on the strategic network, which they will fully fund. Whilst this has been investigated, Sustrans agreed to the carry forward of 2018/19 grant to 2019/20 and have since agreed to use this for surfacing improvements on the Deeside Way. To date a section from Mills of Drum to Crathes has been completed and a further section from Aboyne to Dinnet, which will also include fencing and whin clearance, has been tendered and will be completed before end March 2020.
Projects are being discussed with Council staff and Sustrans for the £100,000 potential grant funding for 2019/20 and as this can again continue to be claimed until mid May 2020 this amount is included within the list of projects in Appendix 3 for delay in draw down to 2020/21. The agreed projects will be reported to a future Board when known.
Regional Transport Partnerships Active Travel Grant As reported to the Board in November 2019, Transport Scotland has again offered an Active Travel Grant for 2019/20 of £220,000 to Nestrans for continuation of the option appraisal and design of an active travel path between Westhill and Kingswells and for Formartine & Buchan Way bridge repair/replacement works. Both are progressing well, but due to the short timescale since the offer of grant was confirmed it is expected that they will continue into next financial year and confirmation is being sought that a deadline for claiming the grant of June will again apply. On this basis, a sum of £120,000 is indicated in Appendix 3 for delay in draw down to 2020/21.
Local Rail Development Fund Grant As reported previously, Nestrans was awarded £25,000 from Transport Scotland via the Local Rail Development Fund to undertake a feasibility study for accessibility options at Insch railway station. The grant covered a two-year period and the £20,779 funding which remained for the ongoing study in 2019/20 will be claimed in full.
A further bid to undertake an appraisal for new local stations was submitted when the Local Rail Development Fund opened for new applications again in 2019 and secured a grant of £80,000. The offer of grant suggested that it be used for a multi-modal transport appraisal and Nestrans has responded to state that his has previously been done through other assessments such as the Strategic Transport Appraisal and request that the study concentrates on rail options. A response is awaited and no expenditure is expected this financial year against this 2 year grant. The full £80,000 grant is therefore also included in Appendix 3 within the list of funding that will continue into 2020/21.
Page 12 Strategic Transport Fund
The legal challenge successfully quashed The Strategic Transport Fund (STF). The current balance for 2019/20 is £479,756. One repayment has been made so far in 2019/20. There are 16 developments remaining to be claimed.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Board:
1. Note the monitoring position and forecast presented in Appendix 1. 2. Note the provisions of the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019 and current consultation regarding the commencement date. 3. Approve the virements set out in Appendix 2. 4. Approve the request for delay in drawdown presented in Appendix 3. 5. Note the projects for which Nestrans will receive external grant funding and timescales for claiming each grant. 6. Note the Strategic Transport Fund position.
Alan Wood Treasurer 4 February 2020
Page 13 This page is intentionally left blank
Page 14 Appendix 1
SUMMARY OF INCOME & EXPENDITURE
Revised Actual to 2019/20 Actual v Description Budget Dec-19 Forecast Budget % Expenditure
Core Costs Partnership Office 453,590 340,193 453,590 75% Partner Support costs 77,090 57,818 78,590 75% Board Members Expenses 1,000 0 0 0% Other Associated Costs 37,500 14,106 33,938 38% Rechargeable Costs 0 0 0 * 569,180 412,116 566,118 72% Regional Transport Strategy Health & Transport Action Plan 43,730 23,492 43,971 54% Bus Action Plan 89,215 7,812 89,215 9% Rail Action Plan 83,000 3,000 3,000 4% General 7,500 7,422 7,500 99% Project Feasibility & Monitoring 130,901 11,035 68,713 8% Contingency 5,000 0 5,000 0% Travel Planning 148,808 47,672 148,808 32% Rechargeable Costs 80,000 200 80,000 0% 588,154 100,633 446,207 17%
Coordination & Project Development 1,157,334 512,749 1,012,325 44%
Rail 2,721,500 41,212 46,946 2% Strategic Roads Capacity 372,261 13,249 374,958 4% Safety 324,436 (0) 219,766 0% Maintenance 74,000 0 74,000 0% Bus Improvements Energetica Corridor 50,000 33,651 90,000 67% General Corridors 220,106 123,502 220,106 56% Walking and Cycling Strategic Corridors 1,256,906 18,250 565,001 1% Carbon Reduction & Air Quality 52,000 33,881 52,000 65% Various 92,064 23,486 92,064 26% Inverurie Interchange 0 0 0 * Cycling Development Officer Grant 199,417 480 99,417 0% Insch Station 21,000 13,867 20,779 66% Active Travel 566,683 373,669 446,683 66% Strategic Investment Programme 5,950,373 675,245 2,301,720 11%
City Region Deal 0 91,904 91,904 * Civitas/Portis 0 22,798 49,666 *
Total Expenditure 7,107,707 1,302,695 3,455,615 18% Income
Partner Contributions Aberdeen City Council 142,568 108,297 142,568 76% Aberdeenshire Council 152,766 116,631 152,766 76% Scottish Government - Core costs 782,000 586,500 782,000 75% Local Rail Development Fund 21,000 13,867 20,779 66% Integrated Transport Fund 0 0 0 * Transport Scotland 566,683 373,669 446,683 66% Sustans 199,417 480 99,417 0% Capital Grant & Use of Balances 5,163,273 301,096 1,734,841 6% Investment Interest 0 7,352 9,500 * Other Income 80,000 200 80,200 0% City Region Deal 0 91,904 91,904 * Civitas/Portis 0 22,798 49,666 * Total Income 7,107,707 1,622,794 3,610,324 23%
Operating (Surplus)/Deficit 0 (320,099) (154,709)
Page 15 This page is intentionally left blank
Page 16 Appendix 2 Nestrans 2019/20 Proposed Virements as at 3 February 2020
Budget Head Project Current Proposed Revised Comments Budget Virement Budget Strategic Investment Programme Rail Kintore Railway Station 2,695,500 91,400 2,786,900 Advance allocation of Nestrans funding towards this project to better profile the contributions. Strategic Roads - AWPR - Signage within 11,491 3,500 14,991 Additional budget required to meet Capacity Aberdeenshire costs of updating signs post AWPR. Bus Improvements - Ellon Park & Ride 50,000 40,000 90,000 Additional cost incurred in 19/20 to Energetica Corridor amend design due to drainage issues. Walking and Cycling - A98 Shore St, Macduff 29,700 7,300 37,000 Additional budget required to meet Strategic Corridors footway Phase 2 cost of works. Total 142,200
Budget Head Project Current Proposed Revised Comments Budget Virement Budget Co-ordination and Project Development Non Core - Rail South of Aberdeen rail 80,000 (80,000) 0 Local Rail Development Fund grant Action Plan station feasibility study awarded and Nestrans funding not required. Non Core - Feasibility Wellington Road multi- 88,901 (40,400) 48,501 Aberdeen City Council has developer and Monitoring modal corridor Study - obligation funding towards this study Stag Part 2 along with funding from the City Region Deal towards the cost of the model that will be used by this study and the links to Aberdeen South Harbour so full Nestrans funding no longer required. Non Core - Feasibility AWPR - survey data 30,000 (21,800) 8,200 Full budget not required as many of and Monitoring collection and analysis the surveys have been funded through the City Region Deal to update ASAM, by Transport Scotland for upgrading the A96 dualling model or by the LEZ funding to ACC from S Gov to update the City Centre Model. All survey output being shared between authorities. Total (142,200) Virements Net to Zero 0
Page 17 This page is intentionally left blank
Page 18 Nestrans 2019/20 Appendix 3 Proposed delayed draw down to 2020/21 as at 3 Feb 2020
Proposed Current Delayed 2019/20 2019/20 Draw Down Revised Budget Head Project Budget to 2020/21 Budget Comments Strategic Investment Programme Rail Kintore Railway Station 2,786,900 (2,756,268) 30,632 Funding allocated in advance of need and Car Park (if virement in with subsequent delay draw down App 2 requested to better profile the agreed ) contributions. Rail Insch Railway Station 21,000 (4,686) 16,314 Additional work undertaken to make a Accessibility Study case for change and remaining work will therefore continue into next financial year. Rail Stonehaven Wayfinding 5,000 (5,000) 0 Bid submitted to ScotRail Station Signs Travel Plan Development Fund in partnership with Aberdeenshire Council, but still awaiting confirmation from ScotRail so Nestrans contribution will not be required before end March.
Strategic Roads - A947 Road Safety 134,670 (104,670) 30,000 Active travel study at Banff Bridge Safety Improvements continuing into 2020/21. Plans to progress modelling work to investigate climbing or overtaking lanes north of Oldmeldrum have been delayed to 2020/21 primarily due to resourcing constraints. This work will be utilising information collected as part of ASAM post AWPR upgrade which is still being collated and validated. Walking and Maconochie Road, 200,000 (50,000) 150,000 Works being undertaken by Cycling - Strategic Fraserburgh Aberdeenshire Council Local Roads Corridors will continue into 2020/21, although 75% expected to be complete by end March. Walking and Sauchen/Cluny footpath 75,000 (50,000) 25,000 Access to land not permitted until Cycling - Strategic March and works then expected to Corridors last 12 weeks. Walking and North/South Link to 220,000 (120,000) 100,000 Tender to be issued in February and Cycling - Strategic Inverurie Academy works will continue into next financial Corridors year. Walking and Design of Junction 49,495 (11,300) 38,195 Design and land enquiries continuing Cycling - Strategic Alterations at Anderson into next financial year. Corridors Dr/Westburn Rd Walking and Craigshaw Drive cycle 470,000 (450,000) 20,000 Still developing design to gain Cycling - Strategic route agreement from Sustrans for match Corridors funding. Expect to achieve this in early 2020 to allow construction to be tendered. Walking and Farburn Terr/Wellheads 68,637 (18,000) 50,637 Design and land enquiries continuing Cycling - Strategic Cycle link design into next financial year. Corridors External Grant Funding Sustrans Cycle Grant funding of up to 199,417 (100,000) 99,417 Have until end May to claim 2019/20 Dev Officer Grant 100,000 per annum from grant and talks ongoing to agree and Sustrans due to implement cycle related projects. Nestrans employment of embedded joint officer
Page 19 Proposed Current Delayed 2019/20 2019/20 Draw Down Revised Budget Head Project Budget to 2020/21 Budget Comments RTP Active Travel Formartine & Buchan 566,683 (120,000) 446,683 A944 work ongoing and will continue Grant Way - generic design into 2020/21. F&B way generic and replacement of design nearing completion and tender bridges and A944 to be issued for first of bridge cycling and walking path replacements, but have until June to feasibility and design claim remaining 2019/20 grant. between AWPR and Kingswells Local Rail Aberdeen south stations 80,000 (80,000) 0 Grant is over a 2 year period. Tender Development study brief nearing completion, but study will Fund 2019-21 not commence until next financial year.
(3,869,924)
Page 20 Agenda Item 3.2
NORTH EAST SCOTLAND TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP – 12 February 2020
3.2 2020/21 Budget Proposals
Purpose of Report
To agree the budget for 2020/21, subject to funding being confirmed.
Background
A budget has been prepared for discussion that reflects anticipated funding levels from both Council Partners and the Scottish Government. The proposed budget may however be subject to future amendment by the Board following final confirmation of budget allocations, particularly given the difficult challenges being faced by both local authorities when setting their budgets. The funding allocations to Nestrans in 2020/21 from Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire Councils will not be confirmed until they have met and agreed their budgets on 3 March and 18 March 2020 respectively. Officers from both Councils have met with Nestrans to discuss the projects that they would propose be progressed in the next financial year.
It is anticipated that the cycling development officer post will continue to attract a funding contribution of £100,000 in 2020/21 from Sustrans. This will be supplemented by a carry forward of any unused funding from Sustrans from 2019/20, which can continue to be used until end May 2020 and this has been identified as delay in draw down in the earlier 2019/20 budget matters report on the agenda. Likewise, it is being confirmed that the RTP Active Travel grant provided by Scottish Government in 2019/20 can continue to be spent until June 2020 and the balance as at start February 2020 has therefore also been identified as delay in draw down. The 2019 Local Rail Development Fund award for an Aberdeen south stations study was offered over a 2-year period and this grant has also been identified as delay in draw down to 2020. Funding in the next financial year from these grants awarded in 2019 are included within the draft 2020/21 Strategic Investment Programme discussed below and comprise of a total of £300,000 grant funding in 2020/21 consisting of £100,00 from Sustrans and £200,000 from Scottish Government in the form of £120,000 Active Travel Grand and £80,000 Local Rail Development Fund.
Consideration
2020/21 Coordination and Project Development Budget The indicative budget of £1,026,350 has been based in anticipation of a continuation of contribution levels from Council partners and the Scottish Government at the previous year’s levels, namely £782,000 from the Scottish Government and £122,175 from each Council.
The proposed budget has been drafted to support the implementation of the Regional Transport Strategy and the emerging RTS2040. The Core Costs reflect the running costs of Nestrans and have been based on previous allocations and expenditure, with adjustments applied where necessary and to allow for the 3% increase in salaries in 2020/21 that has been agreed.
The Non-Core Costs provide for the development of projects within the various Action Plans developed to support delivery of the Regional Transport Strategy and feasibility assessments to prepare regional transport projects and Travel Planning.
The proposed budget is attached as Appendix 1 along with indicative proposals for the detailed expenditure within each project heading.
3.2 2020-21 Budget Proposals.docx Page 21 1
2020/21 Strategic Investment Programme The funding for 2020/21 requested from Council partners totals £2,989,000, which comprises of an allocation from Aberdeen City Council of £1,295,000 and Aberdeenshire Council of £1,694,000, although as stressed above the actual allocations have yet to be considered and confirmed. A number of projects within the 2019/20 budgets are incomplete and are now expected to continue into 2020/21. As noted in the separate budget matters report, following the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019 it may be possible for the Commencement Orders for the section on RTP finance in the Transport Act be in place prior to the end of the 2019/20 financial year, however the mechanism of requesting delay in drawdown to accommodate projects continuing to the next financial year, as previously agreed with Councils, has again been adopted at present until the date of the Commencement Orders are known.
A sum of £3,869,924 has been requested for delay in draw down in the separate budget matters report, which if approved and along with the external grant funding described above would bring the sum to be spent in 2020/21 to a total of £6,958,924. This figure is heavily influenced by the Kintore project funding as described below.
A team of Nestrans officers and Council colleagues have put forward a series of projects based upon the actions from the Nestrans Action Plans and previously commissioned feasibility studies. Consideration was also given to the likelihood of projects being undertaken within identified timescales, other constraints that may limit progress, legally committed projects, building upon previous year’s expenditure and the fit within the aims of the Regional Transport Strategy.
The team also considered the extent to which projects would require ongoing revenue support, possible future year’s capital expenditure and to what extent projects were also being part funded by other bodies such as partner Councils and other external funders. The proposed programme aims to achieve a balance of expenditure across the objectives with the greatest chance of deliverability.
Transport Scotland is likely to incur the bulk of the cost of the new station at Kintore during 2020/21, and have requested to receive the majority of grant funding from partners Nestrans and Aberdeenshire Council during this period. Funding has therefore been allocated over a number of years and treated as delayed drawdown until required to profile the contribution more evenly from within the available budgets. The current estimated cost of the station is £14.5m and provided the Nestrans spend to date since the application to the Scottish Stations Fund is all agreed as forming part of our contribution then along with the approved delay in draw down and proposed allocation in 2020 this should complete the Nestrans share of the costs. This figure may require some adjustment as final construction costs are identified and funding profiles agreed and any further budget considerations would be reported to Board if necessary as they are known.
The proposed 2020/21 budget is contained in Appendix 2. The proposals have been grouped to match the themes of the Regional Transport Strategy. Full details are shown in the Appendix, but in summary it is:
RTS Themes Delayed 2020/21 Total 2019/20 Budget 2019/20 draw down Proposals Budget Rail £2,765,954 £381,546 £3,147,500 Strategic Road – Capacity Improvements £ 0 £433,180 £433,180 Strategic Road - Safety Improvements £104,670 £335,000 £439,670 Strategic Road - Prioritised Maintenance £0 £407,000 £407,000 3.2 2020-21 Budget Proposals.docx Page 22 2 Bus Improvements £0 £428,574 £428,574 Walking and Cycling £699,300 £315,700 £1,015,000 Various £0 £688,000 £688,000 Sustrans CDO Grant £100,000 £100,000 £200,000 S Gov RTP Active Travel Grant £120,000 £0 £120,000 S Gov Local Rail Development Fund Grant £80,000 £0 £80,000 Total £3,869,924 £3,089,000 £6,958,924
A reserve list of projects has been prepared and is shown in Appendix 3 for information and any necessary virement suggestions will be reported to the Board for approval throughout the forthcoming financial year should the need arise.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Board:
1. Approve the 2020/21 Budgets of £1,026,350 and £6,958,924 with programmes as detailed in Appendices 1 and 2, subject to anticipated funding levels being confirmed and making any appropriate adjustments following the Board’s consideration.
2. Note the potential for additional funding for cycle schemes by Sustrans.
3. Note the reserve list of projects detailed in Appendix 3.
Alan Wood Treasurer
4 February 2020
3.2 2020-21 Budget Proposals.docx Page 23 3 This page is intentionally left blank
Page 24 Appendix 1 North East Transport Partnership Co-ordination & Project Development Budget for 2020/2021 Detailed Expenditure - Indicative Proposals Draft 20/21 Budget CORE COSTS Partnership Office 466,260
Salaries 396,760 Accommodation at King Street (incl. rent, rates, water and insurance) 45,500 Travel 8,000 Training 2,000 Conferences 2,000 Telephone 2,000 Computers 2,500 Stationery 2,500 Photocopying 1,000 Subscriptions 2,000 Miscellaneous (incl. catering and postage) 2,000
Support costs 79,650 Legal (Aberdeen City) 5,300 Administrative (Aberdeen City) 20,000 Finance (Aberdeenshire) 21,100 Personnel (Aberdeenshire) 15,900 IT (Aberdeen City) 7,350 Advertising Posts - External audit 10,000
Board Members' Expenses (Non- Councillors only) 1,000
Other Associated Costs 39,750 PR/PA support 17,750 Sponsorship/ advertorials/events 5,000 Presentation Material 5,000 Website 2,000 Contributions to Community Planning Partnerships 10,000
NON - CORE COSTS Project Development Rail Action Plan 3,000 East Coast Mainline Regional Forum 3,000
Health & Transport Action Plan 37,000 H&T Programme Support Manager 22,000 H&T actions 6,000 THInC 9,000
Bus Action Plan 50,000 BAP actions 30,000 Region Wide Real Time system annual maintenance contribution 20,000
General 100,000 Zebra Crossing Retrofits in Aberdeenshire - replacing existing poles with Halo Beacons at prioritised sites 35,000 Road Safety Education - bespoke talks in towns with high collision incidences by professional engagement team 40,000 Travel data surveys/diaries (incl stated preference) for RTS baseline 25,000
Project Feasibility and Monitoring 123,270 Bridge of Dee - River Crossing Capacity Post AWPR review 50,000 South College St/QE Rbt Ph2 review 38,270 Cross City Connections Study - Review of outcomes 35,000
Contingency 5,000
Travel Planning and Active Travel 121,420 Sustainable travel grant and cycle parking grant schemes 20,000 Travel Planning 60,000 Cycling Development Officer 41,420
TOTAL BUDGET 1,026,350 Page 25 This page is intentionally left blank
Page 26 Nestrans Draft Nestrans Strategic Investment Programme - 2020/21 Appendix 2
RTS Project Project Details 2019/20 2020/21 2020/21 delayed proposals draft draw down budget IC1 Rail Kintore Railway Station Contribution towards the Construction of New Railway Station and £2,756,268 £370,687 £3,126,955 Associated Car Park (subject to delay draw down approval in earlier report) Insch Consultancy study to assess options for improving access at Insch £4,686 £10,859 £15,545 station (subject to delay draw down approval in earlier report)
Stonehaven Wayfinding Signs Contribution towards journey signing between Stonehaven railway £5,000 £5,000 station and town centre in partnership with Aberdeenshire Council and ScotRail Station Travel Plan Development Fund (subject to delay draw down approval in earlier report) THEME TOTAL £2,765,954 £381,546 £3,147,500 IC2a Strategic Road Capacity Improvements B966 New Abbeyton Road Over Contribution Towards the Design and Construction of a New Road £343,180 £343,180 Rail Bridge Bridge from B966 to A90 Strategic Network Monitoring – Expansion of the Cities current Internet Protocol closed-circuit £50,000 £50,000 Phase 4 Queens Road Corridor television (IPCCTV) equipment at traffic signals, along the A944 Queens Road Corridor between Groats Road and Springfield Rd to monitor and better manage changes in traffic flow to assist in reducing congestion and improve journey times Osprey upgrade To allow the ITS unit to create strategies more easily and will be £40,000 £40,000 particularly useful for TECA and City Centre Events THEME TOTAL £0 £433,180 £433,180 IC2b Strategic Road Safety Improvements A947 Road Safety Delivery of Action Plan and Development of Business Case for £104,670 £104,670 Improvements Future Schemes on A947. Works would include continuing feasibility and design of active travel for Banff Bridge and overtaking lanes (subject to delay draw down approval in earlier report)
Bend Mitigation/Skid An Aberdeenshire wide project to improve skid resistance at £100,000 £100,000 Resistance Improvements locations where there have been identified "run-off" incidents. Sites will be identified by Roads service and prioritised by Transportation service. Sites where there have been injury collisions will receive higher priority. A number of sites have already been identified and prioritised with analysis ongoing through the year. Aberdeenshire Council also providing £100k funding from both Roads and Transportation capital budgets A947 Route Improvement Further work as identified in the A947 RIS. These short to medium £125,000 £125,000 Strategy (Minor Improvements) term improvements include edge strengthening, surface texture, signs and lines improvements to achieve consistency and builds on previous years investment. Interventions have been identified and prioritised jointly with Roads and Transportation Renewal of Reflective Road Similar projects have been supported previous on an area specific £60,000 £60,000 Studs basis and have had successful outcomes. Sites have been identified by Roads service and will be jointly prioritised based on accident data and surface conditions. Vehicle Restraining System Ongoing project to repair and in some cases replace VRS across £50,000 £50,000 repairs and improvements Aberdeenshire. Sites have been identified and feedback sought from Transportation on accident data to assist in the prioritisation.
THEME TOTAL £104,670 £335,000 £439,670 Strategic Road - Maintenance Riverview Drive, Dyce - Overton Carriageway reconstruction £245,000 £245,000 Circle to Netherview Avenue
King George VI Bridge Carriageway resurfacing between Riverside Dr and West Tullos Rd £162,000 £162,000
THEME TOTAL £0 £407,000 £407,000 IC3 Bus improvements A93 Crathes Mini Interchange Contribution towards designated Car Park, Improved Bus Stop £48,993 £48,993 Hub Facilities and Pedestrian Crossing Facility Ellon Park & Ride Contribution towards additional external waiting facilities and £142,239 £142,239 upgrade to turning circle to accommodate 15m vehicles Aberdeen City and Shire Joint Contribution towards Replacement Bus Timetable Display Cases £10,000 £10,000 Bus Stop Information Initiatives. within Aberdeen City & Aberdeenshire
Oldmeldrum Interchange Hub Contribution towards the development of a Mini Interchange Hub £177,342 £177,342 A90 / A92 Blackdog - Access to Contribution towards the Construction of a300m Footpath connecting £50,000 £50,000 Bus Services Hareburn Terrace, Blackdog with the A90 Southbound Slip Road to allow easier access to current local bus services. Creation of this footpath would reduce current walking distance to local residents by 500m. THEME TOTAL £0 £428,574 £428,574
Page 27 RTS Project Project Details 2019/20 2020/21 2020/21 delayed proposals draft draw down budget IC6 Walking and Cycling B9002 Kennethmont Footway Land Purchase & Construction. Project is at and advanced stage an £80,000 £80,000 will be progressed in 2020/21 Maconochie Road, Fraserburgh Construction of a Shared Use Footway/Cycleway between £50,000 £50,000 Fraserburgh Community & Sports Centre to Seaforth Street (subject to delay draw down approval in earlier report) Sauchen/Cluny footpath Footway Reconstruction (subject to delay draw down approval in £50,000 £50,000 earlier report) North/South link to Inverurie Footway Reconstruction (subject to delay draw down approval in £120,000 £120,000 Academy earlier report) A92 Balmedie / Blackdog Formalised Route between Blackdog and Balmedie £35,000 £35,000 Shared Used Path Corsemanhill Drive, Inverurie Construction of Safer Routes to School Link as identified within the £40,000 £40,000 Inverurie Integrated Travel Town between Davah Wood and Corsemanhill Drive River Don Paths - Seaton Park Enhance the existing eastern entrance to the park, which £40,000 £40,000 Entrances pedestrians and cyclists must share with vehicles to have a dedicated facility for peds and cyclists as well as a path connection into the wider path network with Seaton Park. Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan Delivery of small-scale interventions identified within the Plan that £40,000 £40,000 (SUMP) Phase 1 can be progressed in the short term. Explore opportunities to eg exempt cyclists from access and one-way restrictions, extend 20mph to CCMP/SUMP area and signing, lining and dropped kerbs, to improve the usability of existing active travel routes Junction Alterations (LiB) Continuation of preparatory work to introduce alterations to £11,300 £18,700 £30,000 Westburn/Lang Stracht/Anderson Drive junction with a focus on improvements for Active travel. (subject to delay draw down approval in earlier report) Farburn/Wellheads Cycle Link Continuation of preparatory work for an extension to the Welheads £18,000 £12,000 £30,000 Stage 1 Drive shared use path to connect with Farburn Terrace, including an upgrade to the roundabout and a link to Market St. (subject to delay draw down approval in earlier report)
Craigshaw Cycle Route Construction of segregated cycle lanes in each direction between £450,000 £50,000 £500,000 Wellington Road and Abbotswell Road. Match funding being sought from Sustrans through Community Links (subject to delay draw down approval in earlier report) THEME TOTAL £699,300 £315,700 £1,015,000 Various Roads Hierarchy Review - Continuation of STAG base appraisal of options to improve active £55,000 £55,000 A944/B9119 multi-modal travel and public transport connections between Westhill and corridor study Aberdeen City Centre Wellington Road multi-modal Completion of STAG Part 2 Study, which is being undertaken in £40,000 £40,000 AWPR LIB study parallel with the External Transport Links to Aberdeen South Harbour being funded by the Aberdeen City Region Deal
Multi-modal studies on strategic Studies to identify projects to assist with delivery of the emerging £507,000 £507,000 corridors and hubs within RTS2040 and lock in the benefits of the AWPR and in support of the Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen Roads Hierarchy and Aberdeen City Centre Masterplan. This is likely to include investigation/development of a mass transit option and priority projects for active travel and bus priority. This will ensure that the north east is in a position to maximise any funding opportunities eg through a Bus Partnership Fund when details are announced. Roadside Weather Station It is proposed to renew two stations, add one additional station and £86,000 £86,000 Network relocate one station, which are used by officers to make vital real- timeTHEME decisions TOTAL regarding the treatment of the road, footway and £0 £688,000 £688,000 External Grants Sustrans CDO Grant Walking/Cycling Network Design and possible construction of missing gaps on strategic £100,000 £100,000 £200,000 Development: City and Shire network in accordance with the Active Travel Action Plan RTP Active Travel Grant F&B Way and A944 corridor Generic design and replacement of bridges on F&B Way and £120,000 £120,000 feasibility and design of cycle/ped path between AWPR and Kingswells Local Rail Development Fund Grant Aberdeen south stations study £80,000 £80,000 THEME TOTAL £300,000 £100,000 £400,000 TOTAL £3,869,924 £3,089,000 £6,958,924
Page 28 RTS Project Project Details 2019/20 2020/21 2020/21 delayed proposals draft draw down budget SUMMARY Rail £2,765,954 £381,546 £3,147,500 Strategic road capacity improvements £0 £433,180 £433,180 Strategic road safety improvements £104,670 £335,000 £439,670 Strategic road maintenance £0 £407,000 £407,000 Bus improvements £0 £428,574 £428,574 Walking and Cycling £699,300 £315,700 £1,015,000 Various £0 £688,000 £688,000 External Grants £300,000 £100,000 £400,000 TOTAL £3,869,924 £3,089,000 £6,958,924
Page 29 This page is intentionally left blank
Page 30 Nestrans Draft Reserve List - 2020/21 Appendix 3
RTS Project Project Details Reserve List IC2a Strategic Road Safety Improvements Bend Mitigation/Skid Resistance Additional contribution £100,000 Improvements A947 Route Improvement Strategy Additional contribution £125,000 (Minor Improvements) Renewal of Reflective Road Studs Additional contribution £60,000 Vehicle Restraining System repairs Additional contribution £50,000 and improvements Improvements to Variable Message Replacement of 20mph signs £67,500 Signs at Schools IC2d Strategic Road Prioritised Maintenance A97 Auchintoul to Sheep Park Bitmac Overlay £62,100 A97 Mossbank - Castlebrae Surface Dressing £52,500 A98 Palmer Cove, Macduff HRA Inlay £136,000 A92 at Junction with A957 Glasslaw Asphalt Resurfacing £40,000
A92 Johnshaven Junction Asphalt Resurfacing £24,000 A93 Myrebird to Park Surface Dressing £110,000 A944 from Millbank Gateway Est to Edge Reconstruction £75,270 Woodlands A920 from the Hilocks Junction to Edge Reconstruction £62,350 West of Old Post Office A93 Lebhall Asphalt Overlay £98,000 A97 Main Street, Lumsden Bitmac Overlay £50,000 A944 / C43M to Craigmaud Phase 1 Asphalt Overlay £244,800
Great Southern Road - Provost Watt Southbound lanes - carriageway reconstruction £206,000 Drive to Stonehaven Road IC3 Bus improvements A90 / A92 Blackdog - Turning Circle Creation of Bus Turning Circle - Local Services 64 & 65 as well as a £160,000 School Bus would cover the Blackdog area that would substantiate the request. The turning circle is perceived as a long term strategy as Blackdog is scheduled to grow in the coming years and has a masterplan for mixed use development in the pipeline. A96 Colpy Junction - Access to Bus Relocation of Existing Northbound Bus Stop on the A96, 250m south of £75,000 Services the current junction. Installation of New Bus Stop Layby (86m) and associated footpath (45m) to link the bus stop to the village access point and enhance existing footpath
IC6 Walking and Cycling Footway Reconstruction Project Aberdeenshire wide project seeking to improve the condition of the £300,000 priority footpaths following a condition survey carried out by Transportation in 2019. Sites have been identified for improvement works and will be prioritised based on condition and route usage. Junction alterations at Westburn Construction of alterations to the junction to introduce a pedestrian £1,200,000 Road/Anderson Dr/Langstracht stage.
Farburn/Wellheads Cycle Link 50% contribution to construction of shared use path £225,000
Various ANPR Journey Time Monitoring Installation of new Automatic Number Plate Reading Journey time £100,000 monitoring sites
TOTAL 3,623,520
Page 31 This page is intentionally left blank
Page 32 Agenda Item 4.1
NORTH EAST SCOTLAND TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP – 12 February 2020
4.1 Director’s report on liaison between RTPs, and with the Scottish Government and Others
Purpose of Report
The purpose of this report is to update the Board on liaison with other RTPs, with the Scottish Government and other organisations.
Background
This report details meetings with other RTPs across Scotland, Transport Scotland and other national transport bodies highlighting issues of interest across Scotland. It also notes the minutes from Steering Group meetings covering both the Health and Transport Action Plan (HTAP) and the North East Scotland Bus Alliance.
Recent Developments
The last full Board meeting was held on Wednesday 11 December 2019.
Meetings of relevance held since the last Board meeting include:
❖ Quarterly Rail Meeting with Transport Scotland, Network Rail and ScotRail, Aberdeen, 12 December 2019 This meeting was attended by Rab Dickson and Kelly Wiltshire and discussed progress in relation to Kintore station, proposed future timetables, rolling stock issues and Transport Scotland’s plans for decarbonising rail.
❖ Presentation on Regional Transport Strategy 2040 to Aberdeen City Council’s Extended Corporate Management Team, Town House, 12 December 2019 Rab Dickson and Kirsty Chalmers presented on proposals for Nestrans Regional Transport Strategy and provided an opportunity for Chief Officers to suggest their aspirations for the proposed RTS.
❖ Regional Economic Strategy Rab Dickson attended the meeting of the Economic Strategy Working Group. It is intended to refresh the RES to take account of significant changes in the economic landscape and a growing importance of Energy Transition in the light of Climate concerns.
❖ Aberdeenshire Community Planning Board, Woodhill House, 18 December 2019 Kelly Wiltshire attended the Community Planning Board, which included a verbal update from the Chair of the CPP Executive, a draft strategy by the Alcohol and Drug Partnership, an update on the Local Outcomes Improvement Plan (including an in-depth focus on Locality Plans: a) Changing Aberdeenshire’s Relationship with Alcohol; b) Reducing Child Poverty; and c) Connected and Cohesive Communities).
4.1 Director’s Report Page 33
❖ Aberdeen-Central Belt Rail Enhancement Stakeholders Group, Aberdeen, 17 January 2020 Rab Dickson and Paul Finch attended this meeting with an officer from Tactran/Tay Cities Deal, Transport Scotland Rail Directorate and Abellio ScotRail. The meeting agreed the role and remit of the group and received commitments that the aim is to provide rail journey times of better than 1hour 10minutes Aberdeen-Dundee; 2hours 10minutes to Edinburgh and 2hours 30minutes Aberdeen to Glasgow, within the City Region Deal timeframe of 2026.
❖ Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce Policy Board, Trump International, 28 January 2020 Rab Dickson and Margaret Bochel attended the Chamber of Commerce Policy Committee meeting at Trump International on 28th January. The Committee received updates on the Chamber’s Policy Action Plan and discussed the Workplace Training and Development Commission consultation.
❖ Community Planning Aberdeen, 30 January 2020 Rab Dickson attended the Community Planning Aberdeen Management Group.
❖ A96 Local Authorities/Regional Transport Partnerships Liaison Group, Aberdeen, 31 January 2020 This meeting was held in Jury’s Inn and attended by Rab Dickson. The meeting discussed progress on each of the four sections of the proposed dualling project, including East of Huntly to Aberdeen.
❖ City Region Deal Joint Committee, Aberdeen, 7 February 2020 The next meeting of the City Region Deal Joint Committee is scheduled for 7th February. A verbal update can be provided at the Board meeting.
Future Programme of Meetings
The following meetings are scheduled between now and the next full meeting of Board in April 2020:
❖ RTP Lead Officers Group Meeting, Edinburgh, 5 February 2020
❖ Regional Economic Strategy Group, ONE Tech Hub, 13 February 2020
❖ Northern Roads Collaboration Joint Committee, Elgin, 21 February 2020
❖ Bus Alliance Board, Aberdeen, 27 February 2020
❖ HTAP Steering Group, Scottish Ambulance HQ, Aberdeen, 28 February 2020
❖ RTP Chairs Meeting, Gatehouse of Fleet, 4 March 2020 Councillor Macdonald and Rab Dickson will dial in to this meeting. Nicky Laird will attend.
❖ Aberdeen Airport Consultative Committee, 6 February 2020 Maggie Bochel represents Nestrans on this Committee.
❖ Aberdeenshire Community Planning Partnership, 11 March 2020
4.1 Director’s Report Page 34
❖ Road Safety North East Scotland, Woodhill House, 17 March 2020
❖ Quarterly Rail Meeting with Transport Scotland, Aberdeen, 19 March 2020
❖ Community Planning Aberdeen, 24 March 2020
❖ North East Transport Consultative Forum, Woodhill House, 2 March 2020
Recommendation
The Board is recommended to note progress on liaison arrangements with other RTPs, the Scottish Government and others and arrangements for future meetings.
RD/ 31 January 2020
4.1 Director’s Report Page 35 This page is intentionally left blank
Page 36 Agenda Item 4.2
North East Scotland Transport Partnership 12 February 2020
Item 4.2: Report of Examination on the Proposed Aberdeen City & Shire Strategic Development Plan Examination in Public
1. Purpose of Report
1.1 The purpose of this Report is to:
a) advise the Board on the published Report on the Examination in Public of the Aberdeen City & Shire Strategic Development Plan, and the Reporter’s recommendations.
b) outline the next steps in the process post Examination.
2. Background
2.1 The SDPA agreed the content of the Proposed Aberdeen City & Shire Strategic Development Plan (the “Proposed Plan”) on 24 August 2018. This decision was subsequently ratified by Aberdeen City Council on 10 September 2018 and Aberdeenshire Council on 27 September 2018.
2.2 Representations on the Proposed Plan and associated supporting documents were invited over a ten-week period from 8 October to 17 December 2018, and a total of 67 representations were received from a range of individuals, organisations and developers. From these representations, over 500 separate comments and proposed changes were suggested to the Proposed Plan.
2.3 The Schedule 4 documents (summaries of all unresolved issues) relating to the Proposed Plan, covering 22 unresolved separate issues were submitted along with all full background documentation on to the Scottish Government on the 22 April 2019. The SDPA were advised on the Reporter allocated on the 28 May 2019, and on 22 June 2019 were advised that a second Reporter was allocated for the Examination of the Proposed Plan, to aid the speedy delivery of the report. The Examination commenced on 25 June 2019.
2.4 The Report of Examination has now been submitted to Scottish Ministers, on 17 January 2020. The SDPA officer team received a copy of the Report of Examination for information on the same date.
3. The Examination on the Proposed Strategic Development Plan
Hearings
3.1 Two hearings were held regarding unresolved representations to the Proposed Plan.
Page 37 a) The first hearing related to transport matters which had been raised by Transport Scotland. This was held in Falkirk on 5 July 2019 and is discussed further at paragraph 4.4 below.
b) The second hearing was held to explore more fully the housing land supply issues raised through a number of representations.
Further Information Requests
3.2 Of the six Further Information Requests received during the Examination, two related to Resource issues, while the other four related to matters discussed at the formal hearings. The agreed changes are covered within the individual sections of Plan within the discussion below.
4. Discussion
The Examination Report and Reporter’s Recommendations
4.1 The Examination Report follows the format contained within the Schedule 4 as submitted by the SDPA.
4.2 A summary table highlighting the unresolved issues considered during the Examination, and which have recommended modifications and a copy of the full Report of Examination are available on the SDPA website.
Our Connections
4.3 Of most relevance to the work of Nestrans was the examination of the unresolved issues relating to the Our Connections section of the Proposed Plan.
4.4 Further Information Request 1 stated that unresolved issues relating to the “Our Spatial Strategy” and “Our Connections” sections of the Proposed Plan would be considered at a Hearing on the 5 July 2019. The Hearing was attended by Strategic Development Planning Authority officers, Nestrans, Transport Scotland and officers from both Aberdeen City Council and Aberdeenshire Council.
4.5 The Hearing was held relatively early during the Examination process due to; Transport Scotland’s objection that the Cumulative Transport Appraisal undertaken in support of the Proposed SDP was not in line with the requirements of Transport Scotland’s Development Planning and Management Transport Assessment Guidance (DPMTAG) and there was uncertainty in the delivery of potential transport infrastructure interventions.
4.6 SESPLAN’s Proposed Strategic Development Plan had been recently rejected by Scottish Ministers due to the same issue.
4.7 Transport Scotland’s concerns were explored, and it was confirmed by Transport Scotland at the Hearing that the unresolved transport issues, which were the reason for the Scottish Ministers’ rejection of SESPLAN’s proposed
Page 38 Strategic Development Plan, did not apply to the Proposed Plan. Nestrans project managed the Cumulative Transport Appraisal which considered the Proposed Plan’s employment and housing land allocations and the proportionality of the appraisal was considered in line with DPMTAG and robust in informing the Proposed Plan’s evidence base.
4.8 Further Information Request 2 followed the Hearing and set out textual amendments to the Proposed Plan for both parties to consider or for parties to agree their own alternative wording. SDPA and Nestrans officers actively engaged with Transport Scotland in order to mediate an agreed form of words which would be acceptable to both parties and resolve the issues. A mediation meeting was organised by Strategic Development Planning Authority officers in conjunction with Transport Scotland, Nestrans, officers from Aberdeen City Council and Aberdeenshire Council. At this mediation meeting textual amendments were agreed which were acceptable to all parties. A joint letter to this effect was sent to the Department of Planning and Environmental Appeals therefore resolving the issues relating to the “Our Spatial Strategy” and “Our Connections” sections of the Proposed Plan. This joint letter is provided in Appendix 1.
4.9 The Examination Report recommends eight modifications to the text of the connections chapter, all relating to the transport issues raised by Transport Scotland (Appendix 2). A further modification is a revised table of transport interventions, a copy of which is attached as Appendix 3 to this report. All modifications are those mediated between the SDPA and Transport Scotland.
5. Approval or Rejection of the Proposed Plan by Scottish Ministers
5.1 The Environmental Planning and Appeals Division has now submitted the Report of Examination with recommendations to Scottish Ministers.
5.2 Scottish Government Circular 6/2013 Development Planning para 50 states “In practice, Ministers expect to take on board the reporter’s recommendations, unless there is a strong justification to depart from them”. As the Examination process is complete there is no further formal opportunity for parties to submit further representations to Scottish Ministers. Ministers do not normally expect to enter into further detailed consideration of the issues considered during the Examination.
5.3 Scottish Ministers can now approve the Strategic Development Plan in whole or in part (with or without modification) or reject the plan. There is scope for a two-month period of consideration of the Proposed Plan within which Scottish Ministers formally approve or reject the Proposed Plan.
5.4 As there has been an Examination of the proposed plan, Ministers may make modifications in approving the plan, and will set out reasons for these.
Page 39 6. Legal Challenge
6.1 Should the Proposed Plan be approved by Scottish Ministers a person aggrieved by the Proposed Plan who desires may question the validity of the plan on the ground:
a) That it is not within the powers conferred by Part II of the Town and Country Planning Act 1997, as amended; or b) That any relevant requirement of that Part or of any regulations made under that Part have not been complied with.
6.2 Any such application must be made within six weeks from the date of approval by Scottish Ministers.
7. Next steps
7.1 Should the Proposed Plan be approved by Scottish Ministers and not be subject to a legal challenge, SDPA officers will:
• print and submit the Approved Plan to Scottish Ministers; • publish the Approved Plan; • advertise and notify respondents of the Plan’s approval; • Officers will update the Environment Report and Delivery Programme to reflect the modifications resulting from the Examination and Scottish Ministers’ approval.
8. Recommendations
8.1 It is recommended that the Nestrans Board:
• Note the contents of this report and the outcomes of the Report of Examination of the Proposed Plan;
• Note the next steps of the Plan process.
Report Prepared By: Tom Walsh, Aberdeen City Council Page 40 APPENDIX 1: Joint letter from the SDPA and Transport Scotland
Page 41
Page 42 APPENDIX 2: Reporter’s Recommendations on Connections Chapter
1. Add the following text to the end of paragraph 3.7 on page 8: “The proposed interventions listed in Schedule 1 will be subject to further relevant detailed appraisal and design work which will inform the requirements for developer contributions for their appraisal and/or delivery”. 2. Remove the words “where” and “may be required” from the first sentence of paragraph 7.7 on page 44. 3. Add the following text to the end of the second bullet point under the heading “How to Meet the Targets” on page 45: “The interventions listed in Schedule 1 will be considered through Local and Regional Transport Strategies subject to their appropriate appraisal, review, development and programming, and included in local development plans as appropriate”. 4. Add the following text to the end of paragraph 8.7 on page 47: “The interventions listed in Schedule 1 shall continue to be reviewed, appropriately appraised, developed and programmed in association with the Regional Transport Strategy, the Local Development Plans, and other delivery mechanisms.”. 5. Remove the word “potential” from the heading in Schedule 1 on page 49. 6. Remove the words “may be required to” in the introductory paragraph in Schedule 1 on page 49. 7. Add a new paragraph to Schedule 1 on page 49 as follows: “The appraisal work undertaken to date has been proportionate and based on the approach outlined within Transport Scotland’s Development Planning and Management Transport Appraisal Guidance (DPMTAG). The proposed interventions listed in this schedule will require further appropriate appraisal and review but are, at this stage, required to assist the delivery of the spatial strategy”. 8. Replace the table in Schedule 1 on page 49 with the table below. [Note: the table is appended on the next page.]
Page 43 APPENDIX 3: Summary of Transport Intervention Options
Enhanced bus service provision through developing cross city bus services, bus stop review and optimisation of services with new bus priority infrastructure Additional rail station car parking capacity at Dyce, Stonehaven, Portlethen, Laurencekirk and Huntly Rail Stations. Improved interchange at Inverurie Station Potential new rail stations to the north and south of Aberdeen, which will be required to be considered through the STAG appraisal process and in accordance with rail station investment guidance Range of active travel infrastructure initiatives improving accessibility Package of behavioural change initiatives encouraging car-sharing, public transport use and active travel Optimisation of the performance of the network and new transport investments following the monitoring and evaluation of post-AWPR travel conditions Road traffic signalisation or equivalent capacity enhancement measures at AWPR Cleanhill, A944, A947 and Kingswells North intersections to be considered following monitoring and evaluation period and through further detailed traffic assessment Road Junction Urban Corridors Aberdeen City Centre and Wellington Road, Persley Bridge & Parkway, Parkhill, operational A96, Dyce Drive, Bridge of Dee corridors efficiency Rural Corridors A90 North Toll of Birness/Ellon, A90 South and A947 enhancements corridors Dualling the A96 between the east of Huntly and Aberdeen
Page 44 Agenda Item 4.4
NORTH EAST SCOTLAND TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP – 12 February 2020
4.4 Regional Transport Strategy Progress and Update
Purpose of Report
The purpose of this report is to provide an update on progress towards developing the Regional Transport Strategy to 2040.
Background
A workshop was held with Board members on 11th December 2019, immediately preceding the formal Board meeting on the same day. This workshop discussed issues around four key strands of the developing strategy: • Mass transit options; • Developing the active travel network; • Demand management; and • Rural accessibility.
Update on progress
Officers have taken the feedback obtained during the discussions at the last Board workshop and are continuing to work on developing the Draft Strategy. This is currently being structured around the following key headings:
RTS 2040 Policy Headings 1 Developing the rail network 2 Aberdeen Rapid Transit 3 Improving the region’s bus network 4 Maximising the benefits of park and ride 5 Increasing the number of people travelling actively for health and the environment 6 External air and sea connections 7 Facilitating the movement of freight 8 Improving accessibility in rural areas 9 Maintaining and improving the region’s road network 10 The affordability of transport 11 Road safety and casualty reduction 12 Reducing emissions from transport 13 Improving access to health 14 Encouraging behaviour change 15 Managing demand 16 Improving access to the transport network for all 17 Future impact of new technologies 18 Planning and designing places for people
4.4 RTS Update
Page 45 Substantial progress is being made towards presenting a draft RTS2040 to the Board in April, with a view to formal consultation between then and summer, enabling a final version to be considered by Board in the autumn. This will fit in with Transport Scotland’s timetable for developing their Strategic Transport projects Review and local authorities producing Local Transport Strategies.
Strategic Transport Appraisal
As reported in November 2019, Consultants Peter Brett Associates (now rebranded as Stantec) were commissioned in October 2019 to undertake a Preliminary Appraisal, following the Scottish Transport Appraisal Guidance (STAG), of the long-list of regional transport projects identified from the Pre-Appraisal work completed for the Strategic Transport Appraisal (STA), which is being funded through the Aberdeen City Region Deal (CRD).
The aim of this work is to identify the most effective projects / packages of projects to take forward for further development and appraisal as part of the STA process and will also be used as a key evidence base to inform the development of the Regional Transport Strategy (RTS2040). It will also provide an enhanced and consolidated evidence base to be made available for Transport Scotland’s work on the Strategic Transport Projects Review (STPR2).
Stantec have now produced a draft report for this study which is currently being reviewed by the client team. Discussions are ongoing to establish an appropriate framework for consultation on this (a requirement of the STAG process), in a way that complements the consultation on the draft RTS.
North East Transport Consultative Forum (NETCF)
Members will be aware that Nestrans has established a consultative Forum of key stakeholders, both national and local, covering aspects of economic interests, community groups, environmental interest and transport providers. The workshop and last Board agreed that a meeting of the Forum should take place prior to finalisation of the Strategy.
A meeting has been scheduled to be held at Woodhill House on the evening of Thursday 2nd April and will receive a presentation on the Strategic Transport Appraisal from Stantec and discussion on its findings and how they will influence the RTS.
The Forum is primarily an opportunity for other stakeholders to input to developing policy and strategy. Nestrans Board members are welcome to attend, but not required.
Recommendations
It is recommended that the Board:
1. Note the progress in regard to the Strategic Transport Appraisal, which will identify projects to feed into the Regional Transport Strategy and STPR2; and
2. Note the progress towards production of a Draft Strategy, RTS2040.
KC/30 January 2020
4.4 RTS Update
Page 46 Agenda Item 5.1
NORTH EAST SCOTLAND TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP – 12 February 2020
5.1 eCargo Bikes Project
Purpose of Report
The purpose of this report is to provide information on progress towards using Transport Scotland funding under the Low Emission Zone funds to procure and manage a series of electric cargo bikes as part of a pilot scheme providing an alternative to vans for local deliveries.
Background
In line with the Scottish Government’s Programme for Government, Aberdeen City Council are looking at options for a Low Emission Zone (LEZ) in Aberdeen, to be phased in from late 2020. The LEZ is likely to be in the city centre as this is currently where air quality is poorest – a report on the proposed LEZ was considered by the City Growth & Resources Committee at its meeting on 6 February 2020.
To complement the introduction of a Low Emission Zone in the city centre, Aberdeen City Council have received grant funding in the Financial Year 2019/20 from Transport Scotland to implement an electric cargo bike pilot scheme with businesses in the city centre, to the value of £25,000. This scheme will be run with multiple businesses who are currently operating vehicles within the city centre, with the intention of replacing at least one vehicle with an e- cargo bike.
It has been agreed that Nestrans will lead on the procurement and management of the project, due in part to the project complementing the actions contained within the Nestrans’ Freight Distribution Strategy, which forms part of the Civitas Portis project that Nestrans is a partner in.
Procurement
It is anticipated that the grant funding will cover the cost of electrically-powered cargo bikes, maintenance and all related accessories. Nestrans approached 12 companies for quotes and received 11 returns.
The bikes quoted included a mixture of three-wheeled vehicles and extended length cargo bikes of varying sizes and configurations. Nestrans is currently reviewing the quotes to determine a package of bikes that would best suit the purposes of the project and would represent best value for money.
It was originally anticipated that the grant money would fund five electric cargo bikes. However, following the returns from interested suppliers, it has been determined that there is scope to purchase six bikes, with a mixture of larger three-wheeled cargo trikes and smaller two- wheeled bikes. Maintenance has been quoted to cover a period of 5 years.
Whilst Nestrans have led on the procurement of the bikes, it is intended for ownership of the bikes to remain with Aberdeen City Council.
Page 47 Pilot Project
A number of businesses and business organisations have been approached to determine interest in the pilot scheme. It has been determined that the most appropriate method for allocating the bikes will be through an application process. The application process will be launched in early February, with an accompanying web page for advertising the pilot through the Nestrans website. The Federation of Small Businesses and Aberdeen Inspired have agreed to disseminate the applications more widely through their members to encourage interest in the scheme. So far there has been positive feedback from companies who are interested in applying to be part of the project.
Businesses taking part in the pilot will have the opportunity to trial one or more e-cargo bikes for a period of up to one year. They will not be expected to cover any costs relating to the maintenance or use of the cargo bike, but will be responsible for the safety and security of the bikes, users and cargo. Businesses will also be expected to complete monthly monitoring returns relating to their use and experiences of using the bikes.
It is hoped that the experience of taking part in the trial will encourage businesses to consider purchasing their own e-cargo bikes if it is deemed suitable for their business needs.
Implications
Due to the tight timescales in procuring the bikes prior to the end of the financial year, Nestrans will purchase the bikes and charge the cost back to Aberdeen City Council, who have received the funding from Transport Scotland. However, ownership of the asset will remain with the Council.
Following the first year of the pilot, reporting will consider the benefits both to businesses and the environment and consideration given as to future years’ use, depending on the success of the pilot and the bikes remaining in good condition.
Recommendations
It is recommended that the Board:
1. Note the report; and 2. Seek further reports on the results of the scheme, as it progresses.
NL 31 January 2020
Page 48 Agenda Item 5.2
NORTH EAST SCOTLAND TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP – 12 February 2020
5.2 Insch Railway Station Accessibility
Purpose of Report
The purpose of this report is to provide members of the Board with an update of progress in regard to the accessibility study for Insch Railway Station.
Background
Members will be aware that Nestrans were successful in being granted £25,000 from Transport Scotland as part of the Local Rail Development Fund to contribute towards undertaking a feasibility study for accessibility options, at Insch Railway Station. As reported to the Board on 6 November 2019, a public consultation event and public survey have been carried out and a Case for Change report was submitted to Transport Scotland on 22 January 2020. The Executive Summary of this report is attached in Appendix 1 to this report.
A copy of the full Case for Change Report as sent to Transport Scotland and rail industry colleagues has been uploaded to the Nestrans website at: https://www.nestrans.org.uk/projects/studies/documents-studies/
o Progress
This Case for Change has involved wide-ranging local consultation, including: a public consultation event, meetings with the Bennachie Community Council, local taxi operators, Central Aberdeen Access Panel and a public survey, which attracted 438 responses. Nestrans and our consultants AECOM who have carried out the consultations, have received a lot of support from the local community, including the local school sending a link to the survey out on their Facebook page and some respondents making special journeys to attend the public consultation event.
The survey results show: • 58% of respondents said they were affected by the access arrangements (154 to some extent and 102 to a large extent); • 118 respondents (49% of those responding) agreed that they did not consider rail to be a viable option due to their access requirements.
The key elements of the report are spilt into: • Policy and legislative context where there should be equal access for all; • The Socio- Economic Context – supporting rural population accessibility; • Transport perspective - that Insch is potentially unique in Scotland, that whilst it is not fully accessible, it also doesn’t have a fully accessible station nearby as an alternative option; and
5.2 Insch Page 1 Page 49 • Stakeholder engagement – united support to address a long-standing issue. There are also some constraints highlighted for potential solutions such as Insch Railway station being a listed building, so any options going forward must be mindful of this and the station’s proximity to a level crossing.
Recommendations
It is recommended that the Board:
a) note the content of this report, and the Executive Summary contained within the appendix, b) acknowledge the support from the local community; and c) instruct officers to keep the Board updated with developments.
KW/3 February 2020
5.2 Insch Page 2 Page 50
Improving Accessibility at Insch Station
Case for Change: Executive Summary
Nestrans
Project number: 60599819
January 2020
FINAL Page 51 Executive Summary Introduction
Accessibility improvements at Insch Station – which sits on the Aberdeen to Inverness line approximately 27 miles northwest of Aberdeen, at the southern outskirts of the village – have been a longstanding issue of concern amongst local residents and Elected Members in North East Scotland.
Platform 2 is accessible from the main road (B9002) and the station’s car park via a short flight of steps or ramps. Platform 1 is only accessible from Platform 2 via a stepped overbridge. Insch is the only station in the North East of Scotland where both platforms are not accessible to all users, making it a priority for improvement from a regional perspective. Currently, passengers with Figure 1: Insch Station Context Plan mobility issues have the option to arrange a taxi in advance with ScotRail to transfer to the next closest stations of Inverurie (~21 minutes) or Huntly (~18 minutes) for part of their journey. Problems & Opportunities Analysis
The key problems, issues, opportunities and constraints in the study area have been identified based on a review socio-economic conditions in the study area, key transport and travel trends at Insch Station, a review of accessibility at Insch relative to other stations across Scotland, the environmental and planning context and the findings from public and stakeholder engagement activities. The analysis has been supported by detailed on-site review including a site accessibility audit, video surveys of pedestrian behaviour in and around the station and the results from an online public survey. A summary of the key issues considered in making the Case for Change for improvements at Insch Station are presented below.
The Policy Context: equal access for all
Improvements sought through the Accessibility at Insch study strongly align with the national, regional and local strategies, as well as Inclusive Access Strategies and guidance that has emerged from the Equality Act 2010.
The draft National Transport Strategy (NTS2), published in July 2019, specifically highlights the need for an inclusive transport system that contributes to a fairer Scotland and includes a specific priority to promote equality. Under this priority includes outcomes around developing a transport system that “will provide fair access to services we need” and “will be easy to use”. Figure 2: Policy Context
A consistent theme within the reviewed policy position is the increased focus on protecting people from discrimination in wider society, an issue that the delivery of access improvements at Insch Station would support.
Page 52 The Socio-Economic Context: supporting rural population accessibility
A common message during engagement activities is that Insch Station is central to the attractiveness of the village, with data showing that there is a high propensity within Insch to travel to work by train (over 6% compared to 1% for Aberdeenshire and 4% for Scotland). However, current access issues at the station prevent large sections of the population from using the station. Socio-economic data suggests that compared to regional and national averages, there are higher proportions of very young (0-4 years) and older people (65+ years) residing in the village; this points to Insch being attractive to older residents, including those of retirement age, as well as young families; both groups which may have a higher propensity for inclusive physical infrastructure at the station. This could mean that there may be a greater need for accessibility improvements at Insch Station to make rail a more attractive alternative for young families with prams/buggies and a more viable mode of transport for older people who are more likely to experience problems with mobility. A decline in bus services in recent years also compounds the need for improved accessibility from the station. The Transport Context: the uniqueness of Insch Station
Insch Station experienced a steady increase in passengers from 2004/05 (~62,000), reaching a peak of ~122,000 in 2014/15. Since this time, numbers have fallen, although usage is still higher than it was between 2004/05 and 2010/11. The recent decline may be a reflection of the challenges faced by the oil and gas industry since 2014 and the ongoing A2I improvement works which have caused disruption on the line in recent times.
To understand how the accessibility situation at Insch Station compares to other stations across the region and country, a review was undertaken to categorise each of Scotland’s stations according to their level of accessibility (1=Fully accessible, 2=Partially accessible (drop-off by car); 3=Partially accessible (via footpath); 4=Inaccessible; and 5=Fully Inaccessible). Based on the assessment, Insch Station was identified as a Category 4 (inaccessible) station.
From a regional perspective, Insch is considered to be the priority for accessibility improvements as it is the only station in the North East of Scotland that is not at least partially accessible.
At a national level, of the 357 stations in Scotland, 111 (31%) fell within Category 4 or 5. 54 stations (15%) fell within Category 4 or 5 and were found to have patronage greater than Insch but only two of these stations (1%) had higher patronage than Insch and did not have an alternative station within 5km that was at least partially accessible. However, in contrast to Insch, both of these stations have a fully accessible Category 1 station within 16km, meaning that passengers with increased mobility needs can complete a round trip using an alternative station. This is contrary to Figure 3: Rail Station Accessibility across Scotland the nearest stations to Insch – Huntly (15km from Insch) and Inverurie (16km from Insch) – which fall within Categories 2 and 3 respectively, with the nearest fully accessible station to Insch located at Dyce, some 30km away. The review therefore highlighted that Insch is one of the least accessible stations in Scotland.
Page 53 Stakeholder Engagement: united support to address an issue of longstanding concern
An extensive level of public and stakeholder engagement has been undertaken to understand the transport-related problems and opportunities associated with Insch Station. At a stakeholder level, the study is being overseen by a Project Working Group comprising Nestrans, Aberdeenshire Council, Transport Scotland, Network Rail and ScotRail who have provided input at key points. Engagement has also been undertaken with the Elected Members, the British Transport Police, MACS, local taxi operators, the Central Aberdeenshire Access Panel and Bennachie Community Council, all of whom have expressed their support and willingness for measures to improve accessibility at the station. A site accessibility audit undertaken with members of the Access Panel provided a particularly insightful review of the problems accessing the station for those with mobility impairments. Engagement with the public has been undertaken through the following sources:
· a public consultation event at Insch Station in October 2019, attended by approximately 40 people who provided their experiences of using Insch Station. A number of attendees were local residents who experienced mobility conditions that meant they were currently unable to access the station;
· an online survey conducted between November and December 2019 which was issued via maildrop to around 5,000 homes in the Insch Station catchment and promoted using social media. The online survey was undertaken to provide more detailed information around the number of people impacted by the current accessibility arrangement at Insch Station, the reasons for the infrequent use of the alternative travel arrangements provided by ScotRail and the number of people that would use Insch Station more frequently if accessibility improvements were made. A total of 438 responses were received.
Responses to the survey confirmed that the current accessibility arrangement is a barrier to station use, with over half of respondents (58%) stating that they were affected by the existing access arrangements at Insch Station in some way. Reasons for being impacted were varied and not confined to physical mobility impairments. Other reasons included having a friend or family member with a mobility impairment, difficulty carrying luggage or other items across the footbridge, medical conditions not classed as mobility issues, concerns about slippery and uneven treads on the footbridge stairs, and difficulty accessing the platform when the level crossing barrier is closed. 118 respondents agreed that they do not consider rail to be a viable option due to their access requirements and disagree that journeys are easy to undertake by train.
The overwhelming majority of respondents to the survey (75%) were unaware that ScotRail offered alternative travel arrangements for those to whom the station is inaccessible. Supplementary to the online survey, consultation with Aberdeenshire Council’s Taxi Licensing team indicated within the Inverurie, Insch and Huntly area, there are 14 taxi operators and 26 vehicles, of which only 4 are wheelchair accessible. It was also commented that with many taxis used for school transport in rural areas, it may be difficult for passengers to book a taxi at short notice during certain times of the day, particularly if an accessible taxi is required. Consultation with ScotRail has suggested that these alternative arrangements are relied upon relatively infrequently (less than ten times per year); as confirmed by the online survey results, this may be because few people are aware of the provision but also because such a service is not seen to be as convenient or comfortable with numerous members of the public commenting that it would be more convenient for them to use their own car or get a lift for their full journey rather than interchange via taxi at their nearest accessible station.
The online survey also asked respondents for their views on potential improvement options, with high numbers stating that they would use Insch Station more frequently in the future if access improvements were delivered. For example, 188 respondents said that they would use the station more frequently if lifts were implemented with similarly high numbers obtained for other improvements e.g. footway to Platform 1 and ramped footbridge options. These findings highlight the potential for greater usage of Insch Station as a result of accessibility improvements. Further quantification of this will be undertaken as part of the Detailed Appraisal Stage.
As part of the survey, respondents were provided the opportunity to provide any other feedback in relation to travel at Insch Station. Overall, the strength of feeling regarding accessibility issues at the station was emphasised, with many highlighting the unacceptability of the existing situation in terms of equality, the isolating impacts for those unable to drive and the clear desire to use the station if accessibility improvements were made. A selection of some of the comments received in the open response question at the end of the survey is provided in Figure 4.
Page 54 Figure 4: Example Online Surveys Comments Wider Issues & Constraints
A number of wider issues and constraints have been identified for further consideration as the study develops.
Specifically, from an environmental perspective, Insch Station is Category C-listed, meaning that options developed will need to ensure their impact on the character of the station is minimised. Aberdeenshire Council’s planning department have been consulted as part of the study to date and dialogue will be maintained as the study develops.
The proximity of the station to the Level Crossing has also been identified as an issue that could impact on the viability of potential access improvement options. Consultation with British Transport Police has identified that as a ratio to the volume of traffic on the B9002 North Road, the number of offences is relatively high and therefore BTP conduct permanent CCTV monitoring at the Level Crossing. Consultation with Network Rail also confirmed the view that they Network Rail do not typically endorse the use of a Level Crossing to provide platform to platform access and if any changes were required to the Level Crossing to facilitate improved access, this would require a change order agreed with the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) and Network Rail, which could take some time and incur considerable costs. Transport Planning Objectives
In line with Scottish Transport Appraisal Guidance (STAG), objective setting for this study has been driven by an understanding of the evidence-based problems and opportunities at Insch Station. This evidence, which has been focussed on the particular problem or barrier associated with accessing the rail network for those with mobility impairments at Insch Station, has driven the development of a single Transport Planning Objective (TPO) for the study, as follows. · TPO1: To improve physical accessibility at Insch Station such that all users can travel without requiring assistance, including those with mobility impairments, the ageing population, and those with young children.
Page 55 Option Development and Appraisal
Option Generation
In STAG, all generated options must be appraised against a Do-Minimum option. This considers the impacts on the transport network if no action is taken i.e. if no ‘Do-Something’ options are implemented. For this project, the following transport improvement commitment has policy and funding approval and therefore constitutes part of the Do-Minimum scenario: · Refurbishment works of the existing footbridge which are planned to take place in 2023/24 (part of Control Period 6) involving repair, re-painting, and tread and deck replacement. Recent improvements also taken into account include the extension of the station’s two platforms to support the introduction of longer High-Speed Trains, completed during 2019, and the A2I Phase 1 Improvements, including increased reliability of service (although it is to be noted that Insch Station does not benefit from additional services). To address the identified TPO, a range of options have been generated based on interventions that have a long- history in the study area and have been considered through previous work, as well as interventions identified through discussions with stakeholders and on-site review. The following options have been generated, with each offering a different level of accessibility: · Footpath options, comprising a new footpath from the station to the rear of Platform 1 via the B9002 and private land south of the station, to enable step-free access to Platform 1. · An underpass option to provide a step free platform-to- platform access under the railway line. · Ramped footbridge and footbridge with lift options to facilitate step-free access between Platforms 1 and 2. · Car Park options to enable people with mobility impairments to drive, or be picked-up/dropped-off, via Platform 1. Option Sifting Figure 5: Potential Improvement Options A sifting exercise has been undertaken based on a high-level assessment of each option’s performance against the identified study TPO and deliverability criteria in order to identify those options suitable for taking forward to Preliminary Appraisal. Findings from the sifting are summarised in the table below. Table 1: Option Sifting
Option Progress? TPO1 Feasibility Affordability Acceptability
0 Do-Minimum Yes
Do-Minimum used as the basis to compare other options. Footpath to south of Platform 1 with 1a Yes footpath on south side of B9002 This option would support delivery of the TPO by facilitating pedestrian access to Platform 1 and is likely to be the most publicly acceptable of the alternative footpath options due to the directness of the route. Feasibility and cost issues associated with potential impacts of a footpath on the south side of the B9002 will require further consideration.
Page 56 Option Progress? TPO1 Feasibility Affordability Acceptability Footpath to south of Platform 1 with 1b No footpath on north side of B9002 While this option has potentially less deliverability constraints compared to 1a, it would involve people with mobility impairments having to cross the B9002 twice, and therefore does not fully support the TPO for accessibility improvements and is unlikely to be well-used/publicly supported. Footpath via residential unit with 1c No footpath on south side of B9002 While this option could support delivery of the TPO by facilitating pedestrian access to Platform 1, there are significant concerns regarding deliverability and this option could also encounter public acceptability issues.
2 Underpass No
While this option could support delivery of the TPO by facilitating pedestrian access to Platform 1, there are significant concerns regarding constructability, feasibility and affordability. This option could also encounter public acceptability issues, although it is possible that concerns regarding personal safety and security may be partially mitigated by CCTV installation. Footbridge with 3 Yes ramps There are variations with this option, including removal of the existing overbridge and retaining of the existing overbridge. This option would contribute positively to delivering the TPO by facilitating access to Platform 1 and is considered feasible, although construction costs are likely to be high. The option could encounter acceptability issues associated with a substantial loss of station car parking and visual impact. The existing footbridge is non- compliant with modern standards and would require considerable upgrade works if the line is to be electrified in the future. Costs are also likely to be higher if the existing overbridge is to be retained due to maintenance costs. However, from an environmental and planning perspective, retaining of the existing bridge is more likely to be feasible.
4 Footbridge with lifts Yes
There are variations with this option, including removal of the existing overbridge and retaining of the existing overbridge. This option would contribute positively to delivering the TPO by facilitating access to Platform 1 and is considered feasible, although construction costs are likely to be high. The option would likely be publicly supported - there could be concerns around visual impact although it is expected that the visual impact of ramps would be greater. The existing footbridge is non-compliant with modern standards and would require considerable upgrade works if the line is to be electrified in the future. Costs are also likely to be higher if the existing overbridge is to be retained due to maintenance costs. However, from an environmental and planning perspective, retaining of the existing bridge is more likely to be feasible. New car park south of 5a Yes Platform 1 This option could positively contribute to delivering the TPO by facilitating a drop-off opportunity to Platform 1, similar to the situation at other stations in the North East. Due to the requirement of third party land to deliver this option, feasibility is unknown, while there may also be public acceptability issues due to wider village impacts of developing a car park to the south of station. New car park south of Platform 1 with 5b footpath through field Yes & along the south side of the B9002 This option could positively contribute to delivering the TPO by providing a pedestrian access to the station in addition to a drop-off opportunity to Platform 1. Due to the requirement of third party land to deliver this option, as well as potential impacts on the Level Crossing, feasibility is unknown, while there may also be public acceptability issues due to wider village impacts of developing a car park to the south of station.
Page 57 Option would be expected to have a positive impact against the TPO / Implementability criteria
Option would be expected to have negligible impact against the TPO / Implementability criteria
Option would be expected to have negative impact against the TPO / Implementability criteria
Conclusions and Next Steps
Accessibility issues at Insch have been a longstanding issue of public and political concern. The work undertaken as part of this Initial Appraisal has presented the strong Case for Change in terms of accessibility improvements at the station based on legislative requirements to improve equal access for all, the uniqueness of Insch relative to other stations with accessibility issues across Scotland, the impact that the current accessibility arrangement at the station is having on a wide range of people, the limited benefit of the alternative travel arrangements offered by ScotRail for many people, the strong desire amongst the community for future improvements to be made and the potential for increased use of the station that consultation has suggested would result from improvements made.
Following approval of this Initial Appraisal document, the next stage of work will involve a Preliminary Appraisal. This will involve further development of the options and more detailed qualitative appraisals, considering the feasibility and performance of options to address the identified transport-related problems and opportunities. This appraises the likely impact of options against a number of criteria including the TPO, STAG criteria, established policy directives and the feasibility, affordability and likely public acceptability of the options.
Page 58 Agenda Item 5.3
NORTH EAST SCOTLAND TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP – 12 February 2020
5.3 Rail Matters Update
Purpose of Report
The purpose of this report is to provide members of the Board with an update in regard to rail matters , particularly the announcement of the .
Background
Members will be aware that the Regional Transport Strategy refers to a North East Rail Action Plan. Nestrans Rail Action Plan is available from the website at: http://www.nestrans.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/5a-RAP-Jan-10.pdf
Rail usage in the north east has grown significantly in the decade to 2015, although recent reports indicate a reduction in rail use as a result of the economic downturn, it is likely that a return to growth can be expected. Proposals for enhanced Aberdeen-Inverness line including dualling the track between Aberdeen and Inverurie and a new station at Kintore, will be enhanced by a proposed “Revolution in Rail” providing new rolling stock, increased capacity and more regular stops at local stations.
Progress
ScotRail franchise
On 18 December 2019, Transport Secretary Michael Matheson announced that the Abellio ScotRail contract will come to an end early.
Abellio were awarded the ScotRail franchise starting 1 April 2015, for a seven-year period but with a potential add-on of a further three years. The current franchise agreement requires Scottish Ministers and Abellio to revisit the level of government subsidy provided for the remaining years of the contract and to determine whether additional subsidy should be paid. This is a process known as “rebasing”.
The current ScotRail contract was let for 10 years, from 2015 to 2025. The contract provides that in the fifth franchise year (2019) the Scottish Government and the franchisee, Abellio ScotRail, must revisit the cost and revenue assumptions that have provided the basis for Government subsidy levels to date. This “rebasing” enables both parties to agree to rebase, to allow the contract to continue to March 2025 on the basis of rebased revenue and cost inputs that would determine future franchise subsidy levels. Alternatively, the contract provides that either party may issue a No Rebasing notice, in which case subsidy levels would remain based on existing revenue and cost inputs, but that the contract would then come to an end at an earlier point, at the end of March 2022.
5.3 Rail Matters Page 1 Page 59
Following analysis and consideration of the information provided by Abellio ScotRail, Ministers have decided that the proposed increase in Government subsidy would not secure delivery of commensurate benefits to passengers, communities and the economy. Ministers have therefore served a No Rebasing Notice on Abellio ScotRail. As a result of this decision, existing Government subsidy levels remain in place and the franchise will come to an end in 2022.
The Scottish Government have stated that they will work with Abellio ScotRail until the current contract comes to an end but will also plan for the future. Work is already underway to examine the options open to Scottish Ministers in this regard.
Recommendations
It is recommended that the Board: a) note the content of this report, and b) note that Alex Hynes, Managing Director of Scotland’s Railway is scheduled to present to the next meeting of the Board in April; and c) seek further reports on the options being considered for refranchising as they become available.
RD/3 February 2020
5.3 Rail Matters Page 2 Page 60 Agenda Item 6.1
NORTH EAST SCOTLAND TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP 12 February 2020
6.1 HTAP Annual Report 2019
Purpose of Report
The purpose of this report is to request that the Board note the Health & Transport Action Plan (HTAP) Annual Report for the calendar year 2019 and approve the recommendation that the report be presented to the three Community Planning Partnership Boards within Grampian.
Background
The Regional Transport Strategy identifies the need for more detailed sub-strategies, one of which is in relation to Health & Transport. An HTAP Steering Group consisting of representatives from Nestrans, NHS Grampian, three local authorities, Scottish Ambulance Service, Third Sector Interface bodies, Health and Social Care Partnerships, the Community Transport Association, commercial bus operators, community transport groups and a Public Representative, oversees delivery of HTAP initiatives taken forward by two themed sub-groups. In addition, the Mobility & Access Committee for Scotland, who advise Ministers on transport issues, have this year been given an open invite to have a place on the Steering Group as and when they wish. The work is supported by a full-time Programme Manager. The post is jointly funded by Nestrans and NHS Grampian to support all the partners and the progression of the HTAP programme.
Annual Report 2019
The Programme Manager has produced an Annual Report which is attached as Appendix A to this report. Members are asked to approve the report for their part and to request that it be presented to each of the three Community Planning Partnerships in the Grampian area.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Board: a) Note the contents of this report and the HTAP Annual Report 2019; and
b) Request that the report be forwarded to each of the Community Planning Partnerships.
AS/3 February 2020
1
Page 61 This page is intentionally left blank
Page 62 HEALTH AND TRANSPORT ACTION PLAN ANNUAL REPORT 2019
Introduction This is an annual report updating the many partner organisations and stakeholders who are engaged in delivering the Health and Transport Action Plan (HTAP) across Grampian region, as well as the national partners and supporters who are interested in the progress of this partnership. The format incorporates some elements of the NHSG Health Improvement Team annual outcomes report. In addition, the HTAP Programme Manager invited two hundred stakeholders to provide input to the report to help demonstrate the engagement from organisations. In this way it is hoped to reflect the range of perspectives. As well as the colleagues who are more formally involved in the Health and Transport Action Plan governance structure, I would like to thank the many who have in small and substantial ways embraced the visions contained in the HTAP document and support the wider work across the delivery of health and transport. The multi-faceted and complex issues which drive the HTAP programme have at their heart people in our communities. Through design or unintended consequences there are positive and negative impacts associated with aspects of the transport system, the way health and social care is delivered and how the two sectors overlap, co-operate and work towards whole system improvements. The HTAP document and its structure of partners meeting is not to be perceived as the vehicle for delivering all possible activity relating to the policy areas it refers to. There are many areas of good work across public, commercial and third sector which have links. Instead, partners agreed that the HTAP work on high level actions for partners to engage with, the purpose being to add strategic value to the quality of partnership working and enhance the good work of the many people working at all levels of organisations to improve things for the people we serve. The evidence around health inequalities, barriers to accessing services and the pressure on individual organisations grows stronger each year. Nationally, the issues set out by Grampian partners in the HTAP are increasingly rising up the policy agenda and the work in Grampian has been acknowledged as a step in the right direction and highlighted nationally as an example to other areas. Andrew Stewart, HTAP Programme Manager (Post jointly funded by NHS Grampian and Nestrans) [email protected]
1
Page 63 Quote from the Chair of the HTAP Steering Group “Ensuring residents can access health and social care services and promoting positive outcomes in relation to transport impacts on public health is beneficial not just to individuals but also in terms of the broader long-term management of public resources. Supporting alignment between areas of work which share similar objectives is increasingly relevant as pressure on organisation budgets continue.” Gerry Donald, HTAP Steering Group Chair, NHS Grampian
Quote from the Vice Chair of the HTAP Steering Group “I am mindful that transport issues do not fall evenly across the population and that at the heart of the Health & Transport Action Plan is a joint commitment to address health inequalities and transport barriers to a healthier and more sustainable transport system. It is with this in mind that organisations will, I hope, continue to increasingly work together and support the delivery of the HTAP. Change is difficult and complex. But HTAP creates opportunities for health, social care and transport partners to engage in shared learning and knowledge transfer. The structure that sits around the HTAP document also serves to connect grassroots initiatives with strategic managers and budget holders, share best practice and innovation.” Rab Dickson, HTAP Steering Group Vice Chair, Nestrans
2
Page 64 Governance Structure The current governance structure oversees the delivery of the HTAP. The Steering Group provides strategic oversight of the progress made towards the aims of the HTAP. The membership includes senior representatives of NHS Grampian, Nestrans, Scottish Ambulance Service, Aberdeen City Council, Aberdeenshire Council, Moray Council along with agreed representation from the third sector, Health & Social Care Partnerships and, importantly, a Public Representative. The Steering Group oversees two themed sub-groups. 1. Transport and Public Health Sub-Group 2. Access to Health & Social Care Sub-Group Both sub-groups report to the Steering Group quarterly providing updates on the work plan produced by each sub-group. Membership is drawn from a variety of appropriate partner organisations. The programme is supported by the Programme Manager. The post of Programme Manager is jointly funded by NHSG and Nestrans and hosted by Aberdeenshire Council. Each year the HTAP Annual Report is submitted to the three Grampian Community Planning Partnerships and made available to all partner organisations wishing to submit to Committee or Board level, depending on the nature of organisation.
3
Page 65 Alignment with Community Planning Partnerships The two visions set out by partners within the Health & Transport Action Plan can be linked to the priorities set by the three Community Planning Partnerships (CPPs) within Grampian. The following shows the priorities of the CPPs with the priorities most aligned with the HTAP highlighted in bold. Aberdeen City Community Planning Partnership Priorities • Aberdeen prospers • Children are our future • People are resilient, included and supported when in need • Empowered, resilient and sustainable communities
Aberdeenshire Community Planning Partnership Priorities • Changing Aberdeenshire’s Relationship with Alcohol • Reducing Child Poverty in Aberdeenshire • Connected and Cohesive Communities
Moray Community Planning Partnership Priorities The corporate vision of Community Planning in Moray is: “to increase the quality of life and develop the well-being of everyone in Moray.” The strategic priorities, which have been identified to deliver the vision, have been sub-divided under the following seven themes: • Achieving a healthy and caring community • Achieving a safer community • Building stronger communities • Improving travel facilities, choices and safety • Investing in children and young people • Protecting and enhancing the environment • Working for increased prosperity
4
Page 66 What We Said We Would Do This section summarises the work of the two HTAP Sub-Groups. Each sub-group is chaired by a member of the HTAP Steering Group.
Transport & Public Health Sub-Group Update The vision for transport and public health is: • For people in Grampian to choose to travel by active modes such as walking and cycling whenever appropriate and to have the ability to do so conveniently and safely, in order to improve activity levels and public health; • For everyone in the region to live without unacceptable risk to their health caused by the transport network or its use.
Objective For partners to use their collective influence and resources TPH1 within and between their own organisations and at a national level to further increase provision of high quality infrastructure for active travel, and to promote, inspire and enable more people to walk and cycle as part of their everyday lives.
Objective For health professionals to ensure planners and decision- TPH2 makers are informed of the adverse public health impacts of the transport system and to support those partners already working to resolve them, most notably in order to: • Reduce air pollution, especially within Air Quality Management Areas; • Reduce the number of people exposed to high transport noise levels; • Reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured on the transport network; • Reduce the number of people isolated from their communities and key services by lack of appropriate transport; • Ensure that transport policies support sustainable and healthy communities.
5
Page 67 HTAP partners have… Promoted a wider discussion about the distribution of national funding for active travel projects through engagement with national partners, including Transport Scotland, Sustrans, Paths for All and Cycling UK (Scotland). This has included raising with national partners the challenges facing health boards around being able to bid for some funding streams. Health boards in general have particular challenges around organisational and budgetary structures which impede them from making the type of bids for national funding that local authorities and other agencies are set up to make. Equally, local authorities have challenges around budget pressures, staff resource and the delivery of a wide range of transport responsibilities. Partners have indicated that these channels of discussion have been of benefit as they all collectively have overlapping objectives, activity and face similar barriers around various issues. Public Health colleagues are increasingly present around the table in Transport conversations, consultations and the promotion of active travel. This has included a Public Health representative chairing the Transport & Public Health Sub-Group, and presentations to an audience of Transport professionals and Planners as part of the CIVITAS PORTIS European Project. A good example of where the health and transport sectors have worked together is the Public Health facilitation of a Health Inequalities Impact Assessment relating to the developing Regional Transport Strategy. During 2019, a Public Health professional chaired the Getabout behaviour change sustainable transport partnership. Partner feedback welcomed this as a positive step forward. Public Health and Transport professionals are sharing knowledge and contacts, developing pilots of social prescribing of active travel, working to align along issues, such as air quality, social isolation and health inequalities. Partners delivered a joint HTAP and Faculty of Public Health training day delivered by Professor Gurch Randhawa of Bedfordshire University sharing international experience and insight into the delivery and evaluation of jointly delivered projects tailored to the specific circumstances of the Grampian Health and Transport Action Plan. As stakeholders raised issues with the Programme Manager, it was decided to encourage colleagues to work together through two informal working lunch events with speakers, including the Deputy Director of Public Health, Cycling UK, Police Scotland, Adventure Aberdeen, Grampian Disabilities Sport, Camphill, Patient Transport Service, local authorities, Nestrans, Sustrans, NHS, Health and Social Care Partnerships, community transport groups, public transport operators and a range of third sector organisations. The events called “Food for Thought” adopted an agenda-free format for discussion. The first was themed “Is Active Travel Inclusive?” and the second “Can Everyone Travel with Confidence?”. The events captured examples of good work,
6
Page 68 opportunities and issues of concern which have been reported back to the Sub- Group Chairs. The consensus was that such a format takes away the hierarchy present in more formal meetings. Members of the public were also invited and reported being glad of the opportunity to speak with professionals. As HTAP is a Grampian-wide group, the Sub-Group meetings provide an opportunity for Transport and Public Health colleagues to share their professional knowledge, identify common issues, concerns and successful projects. Partners are pleased to report new links being forged between Transportation and Public Health in the three local authority areas. An HTAP application to Sustrans for the funding of an NHS/Sustrans embedded Active Travel Engagement Officer was well received but unsuccessful. However, the networking by the Programme Manager around this has engaged senior colleagues at Sustrans in a future dialogue around supporting NHS bodies to benefit more from national funding for active travel initiatives. The North East Road Safety Partnership which brings together road safety colleagues from across Grampian includes representation from Public Health and this is a welcome step forward given the cross-over between creating a healthier and safer environment for people and the reduction of death and injury associated with the transport network. Social isolation has been rising up the policy agenda given the health impacts associated with loneliness and isolation. This issue will increasingly require health, social care and transport professionals to develop joint initiatives which are not easily created without discussion at a senior level. Evidence indicates that social isolation is more harmful to an individual’s health than smoking or obesity. This issue is well understood by colleagues working on the ground in local communities across Grampian, with a third of GP appointments reported to involve isolation as a factor in the patient’s presentation. There have been great examples of initiatives at a grassroots level which through HTAP partners have been able to provide some support. Some of our residents, community groups, charities and national partners are creating initiatives like Walk and Talk groups, cycling events, supported cycle rides for vulnerable groups and e- Bike schemes for residents. There is a wish for these activities to be more fully understood by transport and health professionals in the public sector, for everyone’s work to complement what is happening on the ground, connect to local authority work around active travel, sustainability and road safety and maximise the benefits achieved through public expenditure. The aim is to enhance our ability as partners to signpost residents appropriately, whether through sustainable travel events and/or health centres to the activities which help attain progress on the aims set out in the HTAP and to the benefit of individuals and the overall pressure on public finances. However, this growing movement to promote well-being and to define health as more than the absence of illness also raises the challenge around whether organisations prioritise health promotion over treating sickness, commuting over local community
7
Page 69 transport and how and where the public and third sectors deliver services. Transport Poverty and Inequality of Access will increasingly need to be built into all partner organisations thinking around transport and health. Many organisations are reviewing, consulting or planning to create new strategies. Through HTAP the Programme Manager circulates consultations being carried out by partners to a network of stakeholders built up over six years. The HTAP Programme Manager submitted a response to the National Transport Strategy consultation on behalf of all partners. A report has been produced for NHS Grampian setting out the case for the organisation to have a Travel Planning Officer. Good work is being done by NHS Grampian, however, stakeholder feedback raises concerns that work is fragmented across a number of roles and key elements of Travel Planning have proven difficult to progress. As the largest generator of transport demand, the largest employer and the body leading on health promotion, partners seek to support NHS Grampian to be an example to others in this respect. Through HTAP, partners discuss how to assist each other and work together. Good work has been done with some NHSG sites benefitting from additional cycle parking, walking groups, a Bicycle User Group and surveys of cycle parking at NHS sites across Aberdeen. Many key NHSG sites have cycle parking that is over-subscribed. This is a very positive sign of more staff and visitors arriving by bicycle and indicates an opportunity to increase capacity and generate induced demand Opportunities exist to increase available cycle parking and facilities, raise the profile of active travel, public transport, car sharing and road safety across the organisation and assist with the delivery of the NHS Grampian Travel Plan document. Colleagues working in Nestrans and local authority transport teams have engaged positively providing staff time and resources to support NHSG on these matters. Through HTAP links between NHSG and many partners have been made, including those working within Transport delivering electric vehicle projects, EV charge points, sources of funding for installation, pool cars use, linking Cycling Scotland’s Driver Awareness of Cyclists training with all the partners, linking Sustainability specialists across public bodies and sharing Travel Planning best practice. Some agreed actions have proven difficult to progress because of the differing ways in which sectors, organisations and specialists hold responsibility, have legal duties and differing professional cultures, processes and priorities. Changing representation from partner organisations can create challenges around continuity and clarity of purpose. Many budgets are already committed and come with set criteria from national funding bodies. Procurement rules can be perceived as restrictive and some partners have given feedback that budgets don’t easily allow for different organisations to quickly identify, agree, procure and deliver Transport and Health joint initiatives. Staff capacity to carry out joint working can vary between organisations, departments and teams.
8
Page 70 HTAP as a structure for partnership working also faces the challenge of not being set up with a joint budget for delivering actions. This creates challenges around sourcing funding for actions to be delivered. Although, there are many examples of good collaboration and joint funding, there is an opportunity for partners to reach higher levels of strategic partnership working, collaboration and co-production etc. At times the progress made has been through organisational goodwill, co-operation and, in some instances, the enthusiasm of individual colleagues.
From Chris Littlejohn, Deputy Director of Public Health, NHS Grampian: “The health of a population is an emergent reflection of the environment and culture within which its people live. It is influenced by the collective decisions of individuals, organisations and institutions and can therefore be improved through deliberate action. As the climate and sustainability agendas have moved to centre stage, and their implications for human health grow ever clearer, so the choices we face in relation to our economic, environmental and ecological systems have become more pressing. Such choices include our reliance on our transport networks, for travel, commuting, social connection, and the distribution of goods and services. Sustainability, safeguarding the environment, and protecting and improving health will require creative and courageous action to deliver change from the status quo, while maintaining peoples' quality of life, and while reducing health and social inequities. This is a tall order, but the Health and Transport Action Plan provides partners with a structure for collaborative working on these agendas. As challenges and risks to health continue to grow, implementing this plan effectively has become more important than ever, and I encourage those involved to be bold and ambitious in their efforts.” From Kirsty Rankin, Head of Strategic Partnerships, Sustrans Scotland: “On behalf of Sustrans, I wish to formally state the organisation’s support for the Health & Transport Action Plan and the work being done by partner agencies in Grampian. We recognise that HTAP is unique in Scotland and that the role of HTAP Programme Manager has yet to be duplicated elsewhere. We note the success of HTAP partners recognised through the COSLA Bronze Award for Excellence awarded to THInC in 2018. At a time of new National, Regional and Local Transport Strategies it is vital that health and transport sectors align their work, monitoring, evaluation and sharing of best practice. Sustrans look forward to working with you all in future as your HTAP develops and will continue to liaise with the Programme Manager on how other regions can benefit from the experience in Grampian.”
9
Page 71 From Kelly Wiltshire, Travel Planning Executive, Nestrans:
“All of the above is very much Nestrans day job and is not just part of our HTAP work. It is part of our everyday role of implementing the current Regional Transport Strategy and influencing our work in writing the new Regional Transport Strategy.”
From Martin Hall, Transport Strategy Manager, Aberdeenshire Council:
“Through HTAP we have created new and developed existing connections between partners to create an effective group with professionals from across the health and transportation sectors. It is important that we realise the potential of this group and ensure that the positive work results in joint delivery of actions within the action plan.” From Joel Evans, (Waste Reduction), Sustainability, Aberdeenshire Council: “Visions of how we can improve our communities and also develop more sustainably should very much be intertwined, and therefore health and transport systems should really matter in our thinking about the future.” From Caroline Hood, Researcher, Robert Gordon University, representative of Grampian Cycle Partnership (GCP): “The successful promotion and adoption of cycling as a viable means of transportation has the potential not only to reduce the number of premature deaths in Scotland caused by physical inactivity but to improve the physical and mental health outcomes for all. GCP is committed to working proactively in partnership with local authorities, national organisations and individuals to help achieve these ambitions and to realise the many benefits accessible and inclusive cycling in North East Scotland would bring.” From Craig Marr, Senior Administration Officer, Pharmacy & Medicines Directorate, Pharmacy, NHS Grampian: “The Health and Transport team has greatly integrated with the NHS Grampian Pharmaceutical and Medicines Directorate department. HTAP Programme Manager Andrew Stewart regularly met with us to discuss our shared passion of improving environmental health and possible integrated measures to improve upon this. The HTAP Programme Manager is very passionate about integration and shared partnership working. The HTAP Programme Manager has regularly kept in touch and this shared knowledge has proven to be very useful. The HTAP Programme Manager even introduced me to an NHS Public Health colleague who could assist in the promotion of cycling to work and I am now a recognised cycling champion for our site! This involves promoting cycling to work schemes and applying for grants. I have assisted the NHS Public Health team with the promotion of available E-bikes for hire which I believe a few of our community pharmacies have been interested in. As our department is the first point of contact for all community pharmacies in Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray; the most valuable asset we can share with the team is health promotion. We discussed this in greater detail and it was agreed our
10
Page 72 NHSG Pharmacy Champions would promote and distribute THInC materials to community pharmacies to better promote the service. I have also spoke with HTAP Programme Manager about the possibility of promoting material on the Community Pharmacy Website. Since meeting with HTAP Programme Manager our corner of the NHS has definitely thought more about the links between health and transport, we look forward to working alongside the HTAP Programme Manager in the future.” From Laura Buchan, Aberdeenshire Health & Social Care Partnership: “Partnership staff are making better use of Skype technology to reduce the need for staff travelling to meetings. Feedback from the Partnership's strategic plan engagement work suggested people would like to see more support for cycling initiatives – current availability is focused on children or competitive cycling – people would like to see this available to a wider range of people including those with a disability.” From James Norman, Public Health, NHS Grampian: “In my role as a Public Health Practitioner I have continued to promote active travel to NHS staff. I have arranged various walking and cycling events, including pedometer challenges, health walks, bike maintenance and bicycle skills classes. I have promoted the benefits of Cycle Friendly Employer (CFE) status and the associated grant scheme. I have been able to assist with one grant application in 2019 (for the IM&T building on the Foresterhill site). I have arranged for the re- validation of Summerfield House's CFE status. I have acquired e-bikes for use by Cornhill and Chalmers Hospital as pool bikes. I have just acquired a cargo e-bike which will hopefully be used by Banchory Health Visiting staff. I have helped audit cycling facilities on the Foresterhill site and have undertaken a small amount of research with regards to the proposed bicycle hire scheme. All small beer really but sometimes I am pushing the scope of my role. We can't achieve much without joint working and I feel I have increased relations between NHSG and Cycling Scotland / Paths for All. Locally I currently Chair the Getabout group and am trying to increase joint working between the Aberdeenshire and City Councils and the NHS. I have just arranged a meeting between NHSG staff and Aberdeen Climate Action. Joint working within departments / areas in the NHS can be poor and I've tried to improve that (by working with Moray staff and senior NHSG staff). My main work around physical activity for the wider public is with Paths for All promoting Health Walks. I have run two volunteer walk leader training courses for them this year and try to work closely with the Grampian Health Walk Co-ordinators.” From Tony Maric, Planner, Aberdeen City Council: “Aberdeen City Council very much supports the principles of Active and Sustainable Travel and the health benefits that can arise from travelling actively and sustainably. We know that Active Travel can help to reduce air pollution and congestion, as well as tackling the issue of both childhood and adult obesity.
11
Page 73 Our current Active Travel Action Plan 2017-2021, shows our commitment to Active Travel as we have delivered a range of new and improved walking and cycling infrastructure, but with the opening of the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route and the opportunities this affords for moving through traffic out of the City Centre, the time is right for a review of this document. Aberdeen City Council very much supports a partnership approach to promoting Active and Sustainable Travel and is therefore an active partner in promoting the Health and Transport Action Plan and welcomes the opportunity to be involved along with our partners in this project. As well as continuing to provide new and improved walking and cycling infrastructure, we work alongside our partners in the Getabout partnership to promote Active and Sustainable Travel and behaviour change among all transport users.” From Suzanne Forup, Cycling UK (Scotland): “Social justice, access and equity are some of the fundamental principles that inform the direction of Cycling UK's work in Scotland. We were delighted to host a workshop with HTAP to encourage the discussion about how these principles could provide insight into provision of transport options, and the consequences for health and wellbeing of individuals and our communities. We hope that this is just the start of a conversation that will generate a radical, rights-based approach to how we plan public services, ensuring that people are prioritised.” From Donald Macrae, Public Transport Manager, Moray Council: “Available accessibility will always be the key. This presents challenges when a population spread across a wide rural area require to access a limited number of centres of excellence and partners must work their utmost to offer up and iron out solutions as best possible.”
12
Page 74 Access to Health & Social Care Sub-Group Update The vision for access to health and social care is: • For everyone in the region to be able to access the health and social care they need and if transport is required, for this to be appropriate, convenient and affordable; • For the environmental impacts of journeys to be minimised.
Objective AHSC1 For partners to gain a detailed understanding of the gaps or inequalities in access to or from health and social care services, and to resolve identified problems. Objective AHSC2 For partners to more fully coordinate the planning and delivery of health/social care and transport in order to improve the efficiency and financial sustainability of services. Objective AHSC3 For partners to work together to ensure that Transport to Health & Social Care is undertaken by sustainable modes wherever possible, or that care is provided without travel if appropriate.
13
Page 75 HTAP Partners have… The challenge associated with transport to health and social care issues are diverse and complex. The key issues vary between organisations, geography, individual need and uneven opportunity to access transport to attend health and social care appointments. Partners know that national research reviewing all available data concluded last year that an estimated 10% of Did Not Attends (DNA) within the health system are associated with a transport related consideration. There is pressure across the whole system, whether declining patronage on commercial bus services , shrinking donations for community transport groups, ageing volunteers, higher demand, reduced funding, cuts to local authority budgets, various transport and location of services issues and ongoing increasing pressure on the Scottish Ambulance Service Patient Transport to carry only those with a very clear clinical need. Not all residents experience systems equally. People with disabilities have reported to Disability Equality Scotland that they find hospitals the most difficult place to access (98%). Although improvements are always being made to address accessibility issues, there are many human stories highlighting the challenges many people experience travelling to or from health and social care services. These anonymised case studies are compiled by THInC call handlers who have been praised by many for their compassionate and professional service supporting clients to attend health and social care appointments. The HTAP Programme Manager has developed a network of stakeholders from across Grampian. This has proven useful on a number of occasions to partner organisations unfamiliar with the wider system. This network has taken time to build and engage but is a success that has helped behind the scenes with partnership working. Partners have funded the information service THInC and its Aberdeen branch project THInC In The City. THInC is the Grampian-wide travel information umbrella project, Transport to Health & Social Care Information Centre. THInC in the City is a branch project that provides booking and transport through an arrangement involving THInC, Aberdeen City Health and Social Care Partnership and Buchan Dial-A-Community Bus. During 2019, Nestrans provided a grant of £3,000 to Mid-Deeside Ltd who operate community transport. The money has helped sustain a volunteer driver scheme transporting residents to health appointments. A further opportunity for HTAP partners to support a small, community-based project exists in Buchan around the BeLinkD pilot, which brings together the issues of rural transport poverty and unequal access to services. In Moray a project supporting transport for health is ongoing between Moray Council and the local hospital.
14
Page 76 Through the intelligence gained from partners’ funding of THInC, the feedback from callers, the dialogue with community transport groups operating at a local level, dialogue with partner organisations and stakeholders we have through HTAP, it was possible to provide an ongoing analysis of the gaps in transport for health and social care across Grampian. We also learn about the expectations of some residents to receive free transport to appointments, the areas where there is no transport available and the particular needs of some who wish to be accompanied, struggle with long journeys or face other barriers in and around the location of health and social care services. These can range from perceptions of inaccessible vehicles through to lack of wayfinding appropriate to the needs of the person. Efforts have been made over past years to promote models of best practice such as the Lothian Hub model, which has reduced NHS taxi spend, built stronger relationships between health and ambulance partners and generated improvements to Patient Flow out of hospital and home. At the request of partners, the Programme Manager has worked to engage policy makers, both locally and nationally, on the idea that many of the pressures on public services are created when they could have been prevented or reduced. The Christie Commission set this out and has underpinned the HTAP document, along with many other drivers. The issue of access to health and social care has fallen between the transport and health sectors and it is encouraging to be able to share that nationally HTAP is on the radar of influencers, such as the Convenor of the Mobility and Access Committee for Scotland. Indeed, the Convenor, Linda Bamford, cites HTAP and THInC as leading practice and is working with the Programme Manager to share the learning from Grampian with Ministers and other health boards. As a Sub-Group the membership has grown and now has a more balanced mix of health and care and transport professionals attending. As Health & Social Care Partnerships have established themselves, HTAP has attained greater awareness. It has been especially welcomed to have Aberdeen City Health and Social Care Partnership support staff time to Chair the Sub-Group and fund the two wheelchair accessible buses operating through THInC helping people to attend appointments and services which they otherwise feel they would have struggled to do so. Going forward, it is hoped to achieve a similar level of participation from the Aberdeenshire Health and Social Care Partnership and the Moray Health and Social Care Partnership. Readers will note the overlap between the two HTAP themes. By creating healthier communities, we can help reduce the need for health and social care interventions and the associated need for travelling.
15
Page 77 From Linda Bamford, Convenor of the Mobility & Access Committee for Scotland (MACS): “As you may have seen from our recently published report on Transport to Health and Social Care we have referred to and cited HTAP and THInC initiatives as good practice and potential models to follow. I have briefly discussed this and our other recommendations at our “winter session” meeting with Scottish Ministers and Leads from the Scottish Government Health Directorate. I am hopeful that the SG Health Directorate Leads will take up the offer from MACS to act as a go-between to link the HTAP Programme Manager and SG Health Directorate Leads and explore your work further to assist in other health board areas.” From Erika Skinner, Project Manager, Aberdeenshire Health and Social Care Partnership: “We are planning to soon ‘go public’ with a promotional launch of Attend Anywhere (which is branded as NHS Near Me in NHSG) in relation to Aberdeenshire H&SCP supporting and promoting it for GP/primary care appointments. Basically, as GP practices won’t necessarily voluntarily adopt it, we are taking the carrot and stick approach of telling the public so that they start asking GP practices if they offer it and what for. I have ThInC on my list of organisations to notify. While I’m sure it’s more for secondary care/hospital appointments that people call THInC to get advice for, it may still be useful for them to know about this. There is also scope for my NHSG counterpart to make links with THInC about a similar project within outpatients to promote the uptake of Near Me video consults rather than folk trailing to a hospital or the Foresterhill Campus etc.” From Donald Macrae, Public Transport Manager, Moray Council: “Dr Grays Hospital Discharge Service - The NHS has a statutory responsibility to provide recovery transport for patients being discharged from hospital care. This can be transport to a further NHS convalescence hospital facility or to the patient’s home. The service had been awarded through NHS procurement to an external provider until September 2016 when that provider became financially insolvent. The contract was thus terminated at no notice whatsoever. Moray Council were approached by the Moray Health and Social Care Partnership to establish if any form of emergency assistance could be provided in the interim. This would be whilst the NHS looked for a suitable provider to deliver a sustainable and cost-effective transfer bus/taxi service. Under priority 4, the Moray Council Corporate Plan highlights the potential for Moray Council and NHS Grampian to work in partnership to deliver a range of health and social care services that will result in a seamless approach that is both more efficient and more customer friendly, as well as economically sustainable. This is in line with the aspirations of the IJB and thus both the NHS and Moray Council.
16
Page 78 The Council’s Public Transport Unit is well placed to support partnership working in this field, already managing vehicles, drivers and escorts on a daily basis across all areas of passenger transport need in Moray. The PTU agreed to provide an emergency service using available spare vehicle resources and drivers from the relief pool with a view to deliver the service on a long- term contractual basis after initial cost for service provision was discussed and agreed in principle by NHS Grampian. This collaboration brought together NHS operational staff responsible for patient discharges and the PTU to explore a joint working venture which would deliver the patient transfer service from Doctor Gray’s Hospital, Elgin supporting the IJB’s aims. As the initial emergency arrangement bedded in, discussions were ongoing between PTU, NHS and the IJB to further the arrangement on a formal footing. There was no requirement to follow a formal procurement process as public authorities were sharing services and resources aimed at joint performance of a common public interest service. This was agreed by the Procurement teams in both NHS and Moray Council. A specification was drawn up for an eight-hour day, 1000 – 1800, five days per week and inclusive of public holidays. Moray Council procured a vehicle and recruited two part time drivers and two part time on-bus escorts to cover the service. Moray Council’s staff have been provided with the necessary specialist training through NHSG. This ensures the necessary pre- and post-travel preparation around sterilisation of the vehicle is carried out in accordance with NHS guidelines. A Service Level Agreement was put in place signed off by NHSG and Moray Council officers. The arrangement has now been in place for three years and the Moray Council staff involved have developed good relations with the discharge teams at Dr. Grays. Patients can be transported for quite long distances, on occasion well into Aberdeenshire, as well as to all the corners of Moray. Whilst coming about through a need to provide a service quickly, the arrangement has demonstrated the positive attributes of collaborative working at a local level.” From Erika Skinner, Project Manager, Aberdeenshire Health & Social Care Partnership: “Aberdeenshire H&SCP is supporting the implementation of NHS Near Me within primary and community healthcare, which uses video consultation technology to enable patients and healthcare professionals to ‘attend’ a healthcare appointment by secure video link, from home, work or any convenient location. By reducing the need to travel to an appointment, NHS Near Me has the potential to save patients and services time and money, while also being more convenient and contributing to a reduced carbon footprint from healthcare appointments. A range of services including GP practices, Allied Health Professionals and community mental health services have been exploring the use of video consulting to improve access to their services for those people who find it difficult to travel to an appointment whether due to a lack of appropriate transport, time, distance or mobility constraints.”
17
Page 79 From Colin Stratton, Portlethen & District Community Ambulance: “Portlethen and District Voluntary Community Ambulance, which is a local charity, is almost totally funded by donations, with only a small sum coming from Transport Scotland to assist with the cost of the fuel. We transport the elderly and disabled in our community by taking them to and from the local Medical Centre and Dental Practices. The people we transport are going to NHS appointments, yet we receive no funding from the NHS. We did approach the NHS Benevolent Fund but were told they could not support a charity which transports NHS patients. The service we provide is appreciated by Portlethen Medical Centre and Dr Lesley Hanna described her thoughts recently, "I'd be very grateful if you could pass on my personal thanks to your team of drivers, helpers and fundraisers. It is fair to say that the service which you all sustain is truly outstanding and somewhat unique. I'm sure it is frequently pointed out to you how much your service advantages our patients and their families, but I wonder if you fully appreciate how helpful your service is to the GPs and nursing team here in the medical centre. We are incredibly fortunate when triaging calls on our on-call days to have your services at our disposal. Being able to bring patients in for assessment -often at short notice- makes our lives so much easier and enables us to make the best job of assessing as many patients as thoroughly as we can within our time constraints. Assessment of patients within a clinical environment is almost always considerably easier and more thorough. It is safe to say that your service contributes undisputedly to improved diagnosis and treatment of our elderly patients and to improved time management by our clinical staff. I really don't know what else to say!!!... your contribution to our patients is very special indeed and very, very much appreciated." We are now in the 38th year of providing a service to our community and the drivers and committee members are all volunteers. Every time we need funding for a new a vehicle, we have to approach companies in the area asking for their support. If we could receive NHS or government funding when purchasing a new vehicle this would save us sending out "begging" letters and would be appreciated by the drivers, and passengers, knowing they are receiving recognition for the work they are doing.” From Gail Amey, Transport Co-ordinator Mid-Deeside Ltd: “Our hospital transport which links villages in Mid Deeside to attend Aboyne Hospital and Medical Centre, is going from strength to strength and now in its second year. Our partnerships with THInC (Transport to Health & Social Care Information Centre) and Health & Transport Action Plan partners have been instrumental to our success. Patients in Aboyne would never have known about our service if it had not been for THInC promoting what we do and linking us with the patients. HTAP have successfully secured much needed funds to extend our PILOT scheme which has secured the short-term future sustainability of our service.
18
Page 80 We have supported over 120 patients’ transport needs. We have a pool of 10 drivers who use their own cars and we also have accessible buses that are available for wheelchair users. We have now extended our service from Monday to Friday and we take patients to Banchory Medical Centre and hospitals in Aberdeen. A regular user Betty Murray said “The service has treated me well and I think it is wonderful. I’m waving a flag for the service”. Our volunteers get a lot of personal satisfaction from helping people in the community who need it most and we cannot thank them enough for their support.” From Marion Mackay, Principal Officer (DRT, Fares & Ticketing), Passenger Transport Unit, Infrastructure Services, Aberdeenshire Council: “Aberdeenshire Council's Passenger Transport Unit continues to run THInC (Transport to Health & Social Care Information Centre) offering transport advice to individuals attending health or social care appointments, particularly those attending hospital appointments. Health and social care professionals are encouraged to contact THInC for advice, on 01467 536111 or [email protected], either on behalf of service users or to raise general transport issues. One of the key issues is the potential ongoing reduction in the level of bus services. Many people travel to health appointments by public transport. In recent years, there has been a decline in bus use and in turn there has been a decrease in the number of bus services/journeys provided by commercial bus operators. In addition, local authority passenger transport budgets have decreased leading to a reduction in supported bus services/journeys. It does not seem likely that this trend will be reversed. There are people who do not have access to a car and public transport does not meet their needs for getting to/from a health appointment. The most appropriate transport solution is either a taxi or a volunteer car scheme such as that provided by the Royal Voluntary Service. The capacity to increase the number or scale of volunteer car schemes is limited by a lack of volunteers (drivers and co-ordinators) and concerns about public liability.” From Laura Buchan, Strategic Development Officer, Aberdeenshire Health and Social Care Partnership: “Changes to day care provision will reduce the need for people to travel to access day services and more people will be supported to access social, training and employment opportunities in their local area, reducing the need for travel. People are keen to make use of technology for appointments rather than travelling.” From Martin Hall, Transport Strategy Manager, Aberdeenshire Council: “Ensuring equality in access to services and service provision is a key issue across the public sector but more so with access to health and transport.”
19
Page 81 From Steve Baguely, Consultant Sexual Health & HIV Physician, NHS Grampian, Clinical Director eHealth and a Clinical Lead for the NES Digital Service: “We need to take a whole system approach to healthcare if we're to reduce people's need to travel. Teleconsultations go so far but we also need the community infrastructure for people to be able to have blood tests and other basic investigations closer to home. And those community locations need to be able to have the capacity for an increased number of visitors.” From Maureen Stephen, Area Committee Officer, Aberdeenshire Council (BeLinkD pilot): “The Local Community Planning Partners have asked me to convey their thanks for your (HTAP Programme Manager) attendance at the above project meeting on Monday. The expectation was that you would inform us about monitoring and evaluation, however, your knowledge about the linkages that transport has to social isolation and resulting health issues was of immense value to the bigger picture we are working on.” From Nicola Hanssen, General Manager, ROAR Connections for Life: “I am providing this as an external stakeholder. Through Roar - Connections for Life's involvement and knowledge of HTAP we have been able to recommend the model you have developed in Grampian in a report requested by our HSCP Strategic Planning groups looking at tackling loneliness and isolation. We have also been able to support mutually beneficial connections with wider prevention work being undertaken by Police Scotland. Participating in the HTAP Traveling with Confidence event also helped us reach a wider audience to talk about our Stay Mobile Stay Connected Campaign aimed at reducing falls and loneliness in older people.
20
Page 82 HTAP Annual Review – Looking Back, But Moving Forward Through the course of delivering the Health and Transport Action Plan, there has been a great deal of shared learning. Partners recognise the scale of the challenges and the difficulties of developing strategic partnerships. In 2019 the Programme Manager delivered the second “Looking Back, But Moving Forward” event. All HTAP partners involved in the Steering Group and Sub-Groups were invited to complete a partnership evaluation tool in advance. This revealed varying levels of understanding of the purpose of the Health and Transport Action Plan. The event included presentations on Digital Health, Occupational Therapists working with First Bus and two community transport groups. The feedback was positive and will be repeated in 2020. With so many partners working from different perspectives and levels of organisational structure, there is a constant challenge around communication and the management of expectations, the availability of resources to provide solutions and many stakeholders across Grampian to keep informed. As a group of organisations committed to the HTAP we are confident that change is occurring. Going forward we can be confident that we have overcome challenges as a partnership, delivered projects of benefit to residents and helped pave the way for other parts of the country to learn from our work. In 2020 we will hold the fourth Grampian Volunteer Transport Awards. There are lots of opportunities for working together in future and the consensus of our stakeholders is that it is imperative that we do. For further information please contact Andrew Stewart, HTAP Programme Manager, [email protected]
End.
21
Page 83 This page is intentionally left blank
Page 84 04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Sub Strategy 1: The external connections strategy ® = MTS project Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status EC1 - Rail Links and Services EC1a: Strategic Review being undertaken of the National Transport Initial meeting with TS, Jacobs, Next STPR2 Reducing journey Transport Strategy (NTS) which will set out transport policy Nestrans, SDPA and officers of Regional times to Projects Review across Scotland for the next 20 years and will inform both Councils held on 29 May Working Group Edinburgh and an update to the Strategic Transport Projects Review 2019 to discuss the approach to meeting Glasgow, and (STPR) – reassessing recommendations for strategic STPR2. Nestrans has agreed scheduled for 6 further south. transport infrastructure priorities throughout Scotland. to provide access to the ASAM Feb 2020. A contract to support the 2nd Strategic Transport strategic model for STPR2. A Projects Review (STPR2) has been awarded to a business breakfast presentation combined team of Jacobs and Aecom who will be by the Scottish Gov on NTS and supported by Big Partnership and the University of STPR2 was held in Aberdeen ↑ Leeds Institute of Transport Studies, as well as other on 8 Oct 2019
Page 85 Page industry technical experts. This substantial transport appraisal will make recommendations for S Gov future transport investment focused on themes of economic prosperity, equality, health and wellbeing and climate action and is programmed to take 2 years. Agenda Item 7.1
Page 1 of 5 EC1a: Reducing journey times to Edinburgh and Glasgow, and further south.
04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status Aberdeen - Ministerial announcement on STPR 10 Dec 08 Previous overview team Programme of Central Belt rail includes rail service enhancements between wound up and work works and improvement Aberdeen and the Central Belt and reconfiguration of transferred to a Project anticipated the national rail timetable (incl trying to reduce Delivery Group with delivery journey times to the Central Belt by up to 20mins) as representation from Nestrans, outcomes to be priority projects. On 28 Jan 2016 S Gov announced Tactran and reps from City prepared. £200million to help improve journey times and Region Deal teams. This Focus is on re- increase capacity between Aberdeen and the Central group met on 17 Jan 2020 signalling work ↑ Belt as part of a £254million package in addition to and Transport Scotland between the City Region Deal. Mar 2017 Minister announced reported progress on early Aberdeen and team to be set up to review options for capacity stages of work in conjunction Dundee and improvements between Aberdeen and Dundee, as with Network Rail. Further linkages to the well as options for double tracking Usan Junction and detail in Director's Report. 7 Cities work.
Page 86 Page the South Esk viaduct at Montrose.
Rail Franchises DfT took over ECML franchise on 14 Nov 09. Serco The Transport Secretary It is currently awarded contract for Caledonian Sleeper and 15 year announced on 18 Dec that the expected that franchise starts April 2015. Abellio took over ScotRail Abellio ScotRail contract will the franchise franchise in April 2015 for 7-10 years. Inter City end early and Ministers have will end in Railways, comprising Stagecoach and Virgin awarded served a No Rebasing Notice, March 2022 and ↑ the ECML franchise from Sunday 1 March 2015 for 8- Further details given in the S Gov is 9 years. LNER (UK Govt) took over from Virgin for separate Rail Matters Update examining the East Coast service in August 2018. report. options open to Ministers. EC1b: Rail Timetable Transport Minister announced on 15 March 2016 that New timetables introduced on Issues with Improved train Enhancements ScotRail will introduce 200 new services from 2018 15 December 2019 that include service delivery capacity, comfort by retaining 13 trains (39 carriages) beyond the terms significant improvements across continue to be and reliability. of their lease, which was due to end in 2018. The the north east following the raised with funding for this is in addition to the £474M investment dualling of the majority of the ScotRail and ↑ in rolling stock over the lifetime of the franchise. track between Aberdeen and Transport Inverurie. Scotland as appropriate.
EC1c: High Speed Transport Sec approved plans for HSR route High Speed Rail Stakeholders ↑
Page 2 of 5 04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status EC2 - Strategic Roads EC2a: Aberdeen The final section of AWPR opened to traffic on 19 Operation and maintenance Overcoming Western February 2019. Since opening fully, AWPR/B-T has continues on the route with no constraints on the Peripheral continued to operate well, with road users now major issues to report. network that have Route - enjoying a range of benefits, including reduced a direct impact on Balmedie to journey times, improved journey time reliability, Aberdeen City Council will be travel to/from the Tipperty reduced congestion, enhanced safety and better local considering plans to install north east, such (AWPR-BT) ® access. traffic signals at the A944 as the A90 Management of certain sections of the A92 and A96 Kingswells/AWPR through or around was transferred on 1 April 2019 to Aberdeen City roundabout junction due to Dundee and Council and Aberdeenshire Council, in line with the number of bumps dualling the A96 Detrunking orders which were published in 2010 and between vehicles at this to Inverness. 2012, as part of the AWPR/B-T project. junction. Council officers ↑
Page 87 Page As previously reported, Aberdeen Roads Limited have been working with (ARL), Transport Scotland and Police Scotland have Transport Scotland and closely monitored operation since AWPR/B-T fully Police Scotland to identify opened to ensure it is working as anticipated. Some measures to improve safety. instances of queuing and delay on the diverging slip Transport Scotland has roads have been observed at Kingswells South indicated they are supportive junction during some peak periods, and this is being of this proposal. monitored by Transport Scotland and ARL, particularly with regard to queuing on the slip roads.
EC2a (contd)
Page 3 of 5
EC2a: Overcoming constraints on the network that have a direct impact on travel to/from the north east, such as the A90 through or around Dundee and dualling the A96 to Inverness.
04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status Laurencekirk Infrastructure Secretary Keith Brown announced S Gov has Draft Orders and the The Statutory Flyover £24M of funding on 28 Jan 2016 to take forward the committed £24 Environmental Impact Consultation design and construction of a grade separated junction million Assessment Report Period closes on the A90 at Laurencekirk junction. Transport published on 19 December on 14 Feb 2020. Scotland has appointed Amey to undertake route 2019 and can be viewed on Progress option assessment work and develop a preferred the Transport Scotland thereafter will junction option, leading to the preparation of draft website. Public exhibition depend on road Orders. Nestrans has shared previous work and held on Fri 10 Jan from 12 reaction to the ↑ will be part of the Partnership Group overseeing the noon to 7pm at the Dickson draft Orders project along with Transport Scotland, Aberdeenshire Memorial Hall in and whether a and Angus Councils. EC2a (contd) Laurencekirk. Public Local Inquiry is required. Page 88 Page A96 Dualling The Scottish Gov’s Infrastructure and Investment Transport Scotland had Further public Plan set out the aim to dual the A96 (T) between aimed to identify a preferred exhibitions will Aberdeen and Inverness by 2030. Project included option by end of 2019, but be held when within NPF3: Proposed Framework. Contract worth now state that as approx 800 the preferred up to £50M awarded by Transport Scotland to Amey written responses received option is Arup Joint Venture for the route option assessment following public events in announced to and detailed design work to dual the A96 between May 2019 the work to identify enable east of Huntly and Aberdeen. Options being a preferred option will feedback. appraised were displayed at public events in May continue in 2020, with an Update from ↑ 2019 and can be viewed on TS website. announcement expected later the latest this year. stakeholder meeting on 31 Jan in Director's
Anything from Tay City Deal Report Movement STPR will identify shortfalls in the strategic networks ↔
Page 4 of 5 04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status EC5 - Connections by Air EC5a: Aberdeen Details of a £20 million investment in the airport over Aberdeen International Support International the next 3 years were unveiled during a visit by the Airport undertook work on expansion of Airport First Minister on 1 Feb 2016. This will allow a 50% the last weekend in January direct Improvements increase in the size of the terminal building and that will see the hold baggage destinations from include the creation of two new passenger lounges, system at the Airport Aberdeen and an expanded baggage reclaim area, a new security upgraded as part of a frequency of search area, new immigration facilities and new retail £5million project that will ↑ popular services. and catering facilities within the main departures help streamline services at lounge. This will see the construction of a 2 storey the terminal. extension to the south of the existing terminal, making space for new arrivals and immigrations facilities, and new business lounges on the upper
Page 89 Page level. Peripheral Aviation Campaign being undertaken to protect The Airports Commission ↑
Page 5 of 5 This page is intentionally left blank
Page 90 04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Sub Strategy 2: The internal connections strategy ® = MTS project Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status IC1 - Rail IC1a: Inverurie town £500K outstanding ITF funding advanced to Nestrans Remaining grant at BID Inverurie have enquired as Initial meeting Seek to secure interchange ® and later passed to AC to retain in a ring-fenced start 2018/19 = to proposals. Aberdeenshire held between an increased account. Extra 36 parking bays, improvements to £314.3K Council to seek meeting with ScotRail and frequency of surfacing, layout and lighting completed Dec 2017. Network Rail about the land Aberdeenshire ↑ services between next to Railway station. ScotRail Council to Inverurie- and Nestrans to also attend. discuss this in Aberdeen- Jan 2020 IC1b: KintoreLaurencekirk Station IncludedFinal invoice within for GRIP3 car park report received on Aberdeen by Nestrans - and £2.681MInvoiced 2009-2011in 2019/20 FundingEvaluation Agreement of Laurencekirk still being Rail Discussions ↑ Proposed new ® Inverness line improvements to be delivered by 2019. (with £2.087M delay negotiated, but a letter being ongoing with station at Kintore Bid submitted to Scottish Stations Fund and award of draw down from issued to Transport Scotland. Transport and further 60% of the project cost agreed. Nestrans and AC 2018/19) Platform element of project Scotland
Page 91 Page development of have committed to fund the remainder. Agreement almost complete with lift regarding the rail system to from Transport Scotland that funding in CP5 control Invoiced to date = shafts and the overbridge funding share be set out in the period can be carried onto CP6, due to the delays in £30.6K installed. Foundation and and profile of Rail Action Plan, implementation of the main A2I works. Land drainage works for the car spend. Project including purchased. Designs and contract documents finalised park have been installed and costs have improvements to for the junction and footway improvement of the some surfacing. Design works increased to the accessibility U242C/Northern Road. Two passenger benches for the Footpath / Junction £14.5m, of existing from the previous Kintore Station sourced and are being finalised, with compared to stations being refurbished by the Inverurie and District construction of these works original £12.4m ↑ Men's Shed. Transport Scotland are acting as scheduled for Spring 2020. All estimate due to principle sponsor/ funder of the station with BAM works scheduled for inflation and Nuttal appointed as Contractor and being managed completion to allow for an increased by Network Rail. Construction works ongoing and opening in May 2020 to co- material costs. aim to complete works by March 2020 then ScotRail incide with the new timetable. Request to to obtain access for operational work with an official delay draw opening towards end May 2020. down of budget to next financial year in budget report.
Page 1 of 20 IC1b: Proposed new station at Kintore and further development of the rail system to be set out in the Rail Action Plan, including improvements to the accessibility of existing stations
04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status Insch Station Bid to the Local Rail Development Fund for match £21K Capital delay Initial option sifting and Further funding of the Nestrans budget approved. draw down from qualitative appraisal of information in Consultancy study commissioned to assess options 2018/19 and £25K shortlisted options completed. separate report for improving access at Insch station and Aecom LRDF grant Revised Case for Change on agenda. appointed following competitive tender. based on feedback from Invoiced to date = public drop in event in Oct ↑ £37K and online survey that closed 6 Dec completed and submitted to client group for consideration on wk beg 20 Jan. Local Rail Nestrans had allocated £80K Revenue in 2019/20 to £80K Revenue 19/20 Nestrans and Council staff of Unlikely that Station undertake a feasibility study into new rail stations on and further £80K both authorities to prepare a brief will be
Page 92 Page Feasibility the line south of Aberdeen. A bid was made to the LRDF grant study brief for tendering in tendered and Study Local Rail Dev Fund to cover the cost of this study partnership with TS rail additional and as has been noted above, the full requested directorate staff. Letter written funding funding has been awarded, although it will be to Transport Scotland in Jan needed from provided in stages subject to approval that 2020 to clarify grant award Nestrans justification to progress the study to the next stage is conditions ie looking "at budget prior to evidenced. transport problems and end March so ↑ opportunities in Aberdeen” to virement be changed to looking "at proposed in transport problems and separate opportunities along the budget report. southern strategic growth corridor between Aberdeen and Laurencekirk”.
Portlethen New ticket vending machine installed and operational Additional stop in Portlethen in
Page 2 of 20 04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status IC2 - Road Improvements IC2a: Haudagain Stag2 Report finalised June 08 and Board agreed A single lane closure will be Details of Strategic Roads Study option 5 as optimum solution and referred the report in place on A92 North planned traffic Capacity to ACC, who also agreed this. Transport Scotland Anderson Drive (sb) from management improvements – awarded Jacobs £3M design contract to confirm the south of the roundabout to and works can tackling preferred design and undertake the design, surveys south of the junction at Hilton be viewed on constraints at A90 and statutory processes to allow this scheme to be Dr from 3rd Feb for approx 4 the Transport Ellon - Peterhead, constructed once the AWPR is in place. Made weeks to allow the diversion Scotland dualling of the Orders for the scheme were published on 17 Feb of public utilities. There will website. Work A96 (as identified 2017. Transport Scotland announced on 11 Jan also be a full road closure of is ongoing and ↑ in the IIP), 2019 that Farrans Construction have been awarded Clifton Road at its junction expected to be Haudagain the construction contract to deliver the A90/A96 with North Anderson Drive complete in junction, Access Haudagain Improvement, incl the construction of from 3rd Feb for approx one March 2021
Page 93 Page to Aberdeen from approx 500m new dual carriageway connecting the week. subject to the south, and at A90 North Anderson Dr to A96 Auchmill Rd. weather other junctions conditions. serving Aberdeenshire Traffic Signal Replacement of the Remote Monitoring System £345.9K Capital in Contract for phase 2 awarded All work still towns. Monitoring and (RMS) that only allows for dial-up monitoring activities 2019/20 (including to Siemens. All equipment expected to be Control . Upgrading all the remaining sites on this £70.9K delay in draw now procured and project completed Upgrade architecture,124 units in Aberdeen and 31 in down from 18/19) progressing although now 2 before end of Aberdeenshire, would allow for improved monitoring months behind original financial year. and fault finding to be carried out and give the ability Invoiced to date = schedule. Installation of to carry out alterations to the operation of the traffic £158K equipment underway but has signals in a more proactive manner. In additional it been held up by inclement ↑ would provide the potential for corridors not currently weather and contractor staff operating under SCOOT/UTC control to be brought resource issues. under control to improve public transport operations and facilities for pedestrians and cyclists. Propose to split project over 2 years and current budget allows upgrade of almost 50% of sites.
Page 3 of 20 04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status IC2b: A947 Route Further budget approved for 2017/18 to continue £134.7K Capital in Aecom commissioned to Banff Bridge Strategic Roads Action delivery of road safety improvements. Aecom 19/20 due to delay undertake Banff Bridge study to Safety commissioned in 2016/17 to look at opportunities draw down from Feasibility Study at an continue into improvements – such as overtaking lanes and junction improvements 2018/19) estimated cost of £70K and next financial alignment and and develop a series of statements from the Action design and feasibility work year and junction Plan. Night time audit of any missing road studs and underway and consultation to funding improvements on average speed camera case studies undertaken and be undertaken to inform this. included for A90 south will help determine programme for 2017/18. Remaining budget to be spent this and further ↑ including at Delivery of Action Plan to be progressed and on modelling works north of A947 safety Laurencekirk. business cases developed for individual schemes Oldmeldrum to determine measures in Overtaking, along the corridor. whether climbing lanes are separate junction and required / beneficial. budget alignment proposals
Page 94 Page improvements on report. A90 north and A96. Route Reflective Road A944 / B993 to A97 £26.6K delay draw Contract has been awarded Anticipate Action on A92, Studs down from 2018/19 to Riggot & Co Ltd who are works will be A93, A944, A947 A97 / A944 to Formartine £21.8K delay draw currently on site. finalised by mid ↑ down from 2018/19 February Motorcycle Contribution to the implementation of Interactive £80K revised budget Marr Roads to arrange signage All works Initiatives Warning Signs on A93 & A939 (NE250 Route) to alert in 2019/20 and lining works including envisaged to motor cyclists of hazards if travelling too fast. chevrons along the NE250 be complete by corridor at an estimated cost of March 2020. approx £25K. Six VMS signs have been commissioned to ↑ allow a collaborative approach to Road Safety where signs can be used in both summer and winter periods.
IC2b (contd) Page 4 of 20 IC2b: Strategic Roads Safety improvements – alignment and junction improvements on A90 south including at Laurencekirk. Overtaking, junction and alignment improvements on A90 north and A96. Route Action on A92, A93, A944, A947
04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status A947 Road Remedial Works highlighted following the i-Rap study £61.3K Capital in £5K allocated for signage Identified Safety carried out on the A947 during December 2018. 2019/20 improvement at Kinmundy works ongoing. Improvements - Funding would allow for smaller intervention works to Crossroads, with a view that Minor be carried out. Formartine Roads approached to these will be carried out by Improvements undertake works on A947 including renewal of, and Garioch Roads. £30K allocated additional marker posts to standardise use on A947 for Hazard Marker ↑ IC2b (contd) northern stretch of A947 (Fyvie to Turriff). Replacements and texture remediation works at Andrewsford Brae, although texture remediation may not be carried out by end March. IC2d: AWPRTrunk road Signage DevelopingBear to undertake signing £80K strategy of maintenance and preliminary design of £11.5K delay in draw Works into progressbegin 23 Janand forbeing a Virement ↑ Prioritised in Aberdeenshire strategic signage. Full list of signs requiring down from 18/19 undertaken by Aberdeenshire proposed in
Page 95 Page maintenance for amendment or replacement being drawn up, but not Signshop separate strategic routes, expected to be as extensive as anticipated as Invoiced to date = budget report ↑ with particular signage at main junctions included within the AWPR £13.5K to increase benefits for public contract. funding. IC2e: Roads Report on roads hierarchy proposals prepared to £86.7K Capital in The required documentation A944/B9119 Support Local Hierarchy ACC Full Council on 11 May 2016 who resolved to 2019/20 (includes has been provided to Transport corridor study Authorities in Review approve the proposed principles for the future 9.8K delay in draw Scotland to commence the commissioned bringing forward distribution and management of traffic across the city, down from 2018/19) process of formal road by ACC and LTS projects that following the opening of the AWPR; and instructed reclassifications. Siemens being funded contribute to officers to engage with stakeholders on the proposed Invoiced to date = have been commissioned to via Nestrans strategic framework and intended hierarchy including an online £25K revalidate SCOOT on the A92 Roads objectives consultation. Consultation results reported to CHI and A956 (N) corridors to Hierarchy ↑ Cttee in August 2017 who instructed development of bring signal timings on these budget. Stantec a detailed roads hierarchy. Consultancy work to corridors in line with the appointed develop options for a roads hierarchy to make best revised hierarchy and is due use of the AWPR and facilitate implementation of the to take place between City Centre Masterplan complete and study published January and March 2020. on Nestrans website.
Page 5 of 20
IC2e (contd) IC2e: Support Local Authorities in bringing forward LTS projects that contribute to strategic objectives
04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status City Region CRD funding used to meet costs of upgrade to Costs for ASAM Nestrans in partnership with TS, Awaiting Deal (CRD) strategic Aberdeen Sub Area Model (ASAM) to 2014 update to 2019 base AC, ACC and SDPA appointed Sustrans info base year commissioned by Nestrans to ensure it year following Systra in July following from hands up provides a suitably robust basis for transport and land opening of AWPR to competitive tender to update surveys and use appraisal. Transport Scotland managing be met via CRD ASAM to a 2019 base year with parking data requests for access to ASAM14 through Latis 2022, 2027, 2032, 2037 and from ACC. framework with Nestrans being contacted to grant 2042 forecast years. This will Planning data formal approval. The ASAM 2014 base model and involve a significant data (household forecast models for 2017,2022, 2027, 2032 and 2037 collection exercise to update no's, completed. Revised draft Model Development Report and calibrate the base model to population and and Audit prepared and being finalised 2019 and to reflect the change employment in traffic patterns as a result of no's) being the AWPR. PBA appointed as attributed to
Page 96 Page auditor through Transport zones. Mobile Scotland's Latis framework. phone data to Traffic and P&R surveys be provided ↑ completed in early Oct. Public through S Gov transport (bus and rail) in January. IC2e (contd) patronage and interview surveys completed and NRS Pupil Census data received. Council signal timings provided and data requested for new AWPR junctions. All data being processed and used for model development. Next progress meeting to be held 20 Feb.
Page 6 of 20 IC2e: Support Local Authorities in bringing forward LTS projects that contribute to strategic objectives
IC2e (contd)
04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status Strategic Strategic Transport Appraisal agreed as part of the Costs of option PBA (now Stantec) appointed Further detail Transport City Region Deal. Transport Scotland arranged appraisal to be met to undertake an initial appraisal in separate Appraisal procurement and Jacobs appointed to evidence through the City of the long list of options RTS progress problems, options and objectives. Jacobs again Region Deal identified and stakeholder. update report. appointed to develop the options generation and Initial STAG appraisal of sifting stage. Outcomes reported to Nestrans on 29 schemes and consideration ↑ Aug and published on the website of packages of schemes completed and initial draft findings presented to client group on 22 Jan.
Development STF Supplementary Guidance was adopted by the £23.6K delay in draw Further cumulative transport Further detail Plans Strategic Development Planning Authority (SDPA) on down to 19/20 appraisal works in support of in separate
Page 97 Page 25 June and ratified by both Councils before coming LDP MIR allocations completed RTS progress into force on 28 Aug 2015. STF payments to date Invoiced to date = and supplementary draft CTA update SDP given in budget matters report. Decision of the Court £7.42K report with option testing based report. in respect of the challenge by Elsick Development Co on LDP allocations reported to Ltd was published on 29 April 2016. The Court Board in June 2019 and now upheld the appeal and quashed the Supplementary published on Nestrans website. Guidance. SDPA granted leave to appeal to the The Report of Examination of Supreme Court. Hearing held on 13 June 2017. the Aberdeen City & Shire ↑ Judgement announced 25 Oct and subject of Strategic Development Plan separate STF report. and the Reporter’s recommendations was submitted to Scottish Ministers on 17 January 2020.
River Dee link. Bridge of Dee Stag Part 2 Further investigations to be ↑
Page 7 of 20 04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status IC3 - Bus Improvements IC3b: Locking in the Appraisal and development of improvements that can £88.9K in 19/20 Aecom appointed to undertake Model Review and AWPR benefits - be made to 'lock in" the benefits for bus routes and (includes 3.9K delay STAG part 2 following development to continue to Wellington active travel due to traffic reductions predicted as a draw down from competitive tender. Paramics be completed deliver the Bus Road Multi- result of AWPR. This will include consideration of 18/19 Discovery micro simulation and audited by Action Plan to Modal Corridor road hierarchy proposals post AWPR and model being developed and will Stantec who improve quality Study information given on this separately at IC2e above. Invoiced to date = also cover the area required for will also use and reliability of Aecom commissioned to undertake STAG part 1 £14.4K the transport links to Aberdeen model for services and set study for Wellington Road corridor which has been South Harbour Stag part 2 transport links out proposals for completed in 2018. study. Additional surveys to Abdn South extending bus commissioned and have been Harbour Study. ↑ priority measures. completed. Work ongoing Option with model development and packaging Page 98 Page calibration/ validation. Full being Nestrans 19/20 budget no considered and longer required and virement appraisal to proposed in separate budget commence report. thereafter.
New e- Replacement system that will provide better routing £61K revised budget Works are progressing on the Support and scheduling information and have reduced maintenance costs in in 19/20 implementation of the new Hosting costs system future. Data Images Software Solutions Ltd have system, with a go live date of associated with been identified as the preferred supplier. This Invoiced to date = April 2019. It is anticipated the new software projects oversees the replacement of the Education £40K that the new system will work will be met from ↑ aspect of E-Scheduling. The capital costs, covering in parallel with the old system Abdnshire the licence, implementation and training using this for a short period. Council's software are £61,000 revenue budget.
Page 8 of 20 04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status IC3d: Newtonhill Forty nine space car park on the west of the A92 Under the current Expand Park and Park&Choose adjacent to Newtonhill and served by Stagecoach consultation on Stagecoach Ride provision X6/7/7a/7b and X7 services service changes it is linked to the proposed to provide a direct development of link from Chapelton to ↑ the AWPR and Aberdeen via Newtonhill Park explore the and Choose, Newtonhill and potential for mini- Portlethen. hubs that can be served by existing A96 Craibstone The link road between the A96 Craibstone Under the current Service X37 to bus provision P&R site ® roundabout to the Dyce Drive/International Avenue consultation on Stagecoach be withdrawn junction that will give access to the site was opened service changes, the revision and replaced on 29 Aug 2016. The 3-lane each way carriageway to the 37 timetable would by the
Page 99 Page includes footpaths and a shared cycle lane and include removing this service improvements pedestrian walkway. The Park & Ride building with from the Craibstone P&R site. to the X10 that waiting room, cycle lockers, toilets and showers will provide within the A96 Craibstone P&R site opened to the faster, more public on Mon 12 June 2017. The £15.2M facility frequent offers free parking for up to 36 hours, whilst users express complete their journey by bus, car-share, cycling or journeys from walking. Inverurie to Aberdeen
IC3d (contd) Page 9 of 20 IC3d: Expand Park and Ride provision linked to the development of the AWPR and explore the potential for mini- hubs that can be served by existing bus provision
04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status A944 Kingswells P&C entrance was completed on 11 Under the current Kingswells P&R August and buses started using it on Monday 22 consultation on Stagecoach August. service changes it is proposed to replace the X17 with services 4,5,&6. There will be increased frequency to Kingswells P&R from every 15mins to every 10 mins ↑ along with a direct connection from Countesswells to the city centre and general journey IC3d (contd) time improvements. Page 100 Page Ellon P&R Phase 1, which includes extension to existing car £50K revised budget Delays encountered with the Under the park, resiting of recycle centre and new directional in 2019/20 issue of the tender due to current signs completed. Ongoing problems with land issues identified with the consultation on ownership and acquisition has been referred to Invoiced to date = technical drawings regarding Stagecoach Transport Scotland. Funding approved for phase 2 - £49.4K drainage. Anticipate tender service additional external waiting facilities and upgrade to will be issued by end Jan changes there turning circle to accommodate 15m vehicles. with a view that construction are significant will commence April / May. journey time Aecom commissioned to progress scheme to tender. Additional funding in 2019/20 improvements proposed in separate budget from ↑ report. Fraserburgh/ Peterhead and Ellon reflecting the impact of the Balmedie/ Tipperty improvements.
Page 10 of 20 IC3d: Expand Park and Ride provision linked to the development of the AWPR and explore the potential for mini- hubs that can be served by existing bus provision
IC3d (contd)
04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status A93 Crathes Contribution towards the creation of a Mini £10K revised budget AC officers in Estates and Legal Following Mini-hub Interchange Hub which would include for a in 19/20 are in in the midst of concluding transfer of land designated car park, improved bus stop facilities and the acquisition of land. to Abdnshire pedestrian crossing facilities Invoiced to date= Consultation design works Council, works £0.7K ongoing with regards to removal will commence of trees. Tree survey requires on specification to be undertaken, following stage and ↑ which it will be forwarded to tendering of AC's Legal Team to complete works. the land conveyancing process.
Oldmeldrum Contribution towards the development of a Mini £30K revised budget Full Planning Permission has Aecom is
Page 101 Page Interchange Interchange Hub at Oldmeldrum to complement the in 19/20 now been approved. AC Legal progressing with Hub existing services operated by Stagecoach and Bain and Estates staff are now detailed design Coaches and enhance the long term viability of these Invoiced to date = dealing with the leasing and specification commercial services. The scheme includes the £11.4K agreement which may be for tender. creation of a car park, footways, and lighting to delayed whilst Scotia Homes Leasing enhance alternative modes of transport and get their planning approved for agreement encourage people out of their vehicles to reduce the a Housing Development. cannot carbon footprint. Aecom appointed to progress Design works are continuing to progress to the detailed design. be undertaken by Aecom next stage until following a requirement for the the landlord ↑ car park and drainage layout to has dealt with be revised. AC has submitted a the issues bid for funding in 20/21 to the relating to the Energy Saving Trust's Low planning Carbon Travel and Transport permission for Challenge Fund. the adjacent housing development
P&R operation Brief developed with LABOF partners to gain a better Research and Action Plan to be developed to The website ↑
Page 11 of 20 04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status IC3e: Aberdeen City In accordance with Council's Bus Information £10K Capital in This is a reactive programme Works ongoing Improve and Shire Bus Strategy documents - replace and/or provide bus 2019/20 resulting from bus stop changes as required. information Stop timetable display cases at bus stops within Aberdeen and remedial works identified by provision Information City and Shire to ensure minimum standards and Invoiced to date = inspections throughout the year. including Initiatives content can be provided, is DDA compliant and £5.5K ↑ expanded real- allows for future standardised region wide time information improvements to timetabling information. systems across Aberdeen City E-paper bus Trial of E-paper bus information on the A96 corridor £39.1K in 2019/20 Tender issued in December Aim to award and Shire. information on at Councils using Civitas funding to install display and submissions received contract in mid A96 at 4 sites in screens on A96 corridor, but additional Nestrans and being evaluated. Feb. Project on Abdnshire budget, in excess of the £6K already proposed from target for (across within the approved Bus Action Plan funding, will completion by
Page 102 Page Inverurie, allow a larger screen size to be purchased and end March Kintore, optimise the provision of real time information, 2020. Blackburn) and scheduled timetables and public notices that may ↑ 4 in the City otherwise have been compromised by the small- (incl Bucksburn, medium screen that could be funded. A SIRI data Powis Terr and feed (data from bus ticket machine providing vehicle Broad St). location and real time arrival info) will be purchased to enable a more competitive tender process by opening it to more suppliers.
IC3e (contd)
Page 12 of 20 IC3e: Improve information provision including expanded real- time information systems across Aberdeen City and Shire.
04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans
Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status Expanded Real New RTPI live weblink (www.realtimebus.com) for £20K Revenue in Nestrans has again agreed to Time First services in the City launched on 16 September 2019/20 for contribute to the annual Passenger 2010. £192K awarded to Aberdeenshire Council by S contribution to maintenance costs of the Information Gov through European Regional Development Fund annual maintenance system in 2019/20. to help introduce real time passenger information. costs of system Budget approved in 15/16 to replace existing RTPI IC3e (contd) screens in Aberdeen with modern screens that will Invoiced in full run on the Aberdeenshire System and installation of further solar powered screens in Aberdeenshire. ↑ New system will allow messages to be sent to the screens to assist with disruption management. Region wide live bus departure info can be found online at AC, First and Stagecoach websites, on
Page 103 Page mobile phones using the free Traveline Scotland app, or via QR codes on timetables at bus stops using smartphones.
Page 13 of 20 04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status IC5 - Transport interchange IC5a: Union Terrace Detailed planning application submitted in April 2017. Contractor started on site on The council Maximising Gardens / Refinements made by LDA to allow for any future Mon 9 Sept 2019 and a number has been interchange Denburn Valley development of the adjacent railway include of footways around the site liaising with potential of the Proposals - City realigning the UTG/Union Bridge walkway and have been closed due to the bus operators bus and rail Centre modifying the position and appearance of the protective hoardings required and revised station Masterplan proposed Union Street/Union Terrace building. ACC during the work. Union Terr routes for developments, approved the planning application on 28 March 2018. became one-way northbound affected the links between Balfour Beattie appointed to undertake £25.7M from 27 Jan until mid Nov services have Union Square and works. Nestrans has claimed £133.7K contribution 2020 to maintain a safe been Union Street, towards the design and development costs via the working environment during introduced by facilities for 18/19 RTP Active Travel Grant. ↑ the next phase of the both First pedestrians, programme, which includes Aberdeen and
Page 104 Page cyclists and taxis balustrade strengthening, the Stagecoach and support replacement of the existing and details are enhancement of arches (which run under the on the other interchange road), slab reinforcement and points in operator's resurfacing. Aberdeen. websites. Work to be complete summer 2021. IC6 - Walking and CyclingScotland wide A consultation on smart ticketing was opened on 13 A new website Cabinet ↑ IC6b: SchoolhillBroad Street public ContributionThe Marischal to Squarephase 1 development of public realm has improvement been £144.1K revised PhaseACC has 1 works considered complete a review and of Further Nestrans ↑ Urban realm realm to provide an enlarged entrance plaza to the War budget in 2019/20 stage 2 design to be contribution in improvements to Memorial and Art Gallery with new footways. progressed. The phase 1 2019/20 to improve the Nestrans funded a £76.9K contribution in 2018/19 Invoiced in full public realm works have Phase 1 works pedestrian and claimed a further £166K contribution towards the created level access to the Art approved and environment, phase 1 construction costs via the 2018/19 RTP Gallery from Schoolhill, a new has been ↑ including Active Travel Grant. accessible plaza, a wider invoiced in full. pedestrianisation footway and an improved schemes in the setting to Aberdeen’s War City Centre. Memorial. Aberdeen City ACC approved the City Centre Masterplan proposed
Page 14 of 20 04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status Maconochie 50% Contribution towards the construction of a £200K revised Works are being carried out by Anticipate that Road, Shared Use Footway/Cycleway between Fraserburgh budget in 2019/20 Aberdeenshire Council's Local 25% of works Fraserburgh Community & Sports Centre to Seaforth Street. Roads using In House may continue Match funding bid to Sustrans unsuccessful and Invoiced to date = Resources into 20/21 and further Nestrans funding approved to allow project to £3.5K delay in draw ↑ be completed this financial year. down requested in budget report. Sauchen/ Cluny Footway Reconstruction £75K budget in Works to review the original Developer footpath 2019/20 design of the scheme Obligation complete and contract monies also documents in the process of being used, but being finalised. Access to land request for
Page 105 Page is not permitted until March, but delay in draw envisage works being down of part of completed within a 12 week Nestrans period following start date. contribution in budget report. North/South Footway Reconstruction £220K budget in WSP have commissioned to Tender to be Link to Inverurie 2019/20 continue with detailed design issued Academy and preparation of contract February 2020. documents and design to be Works will complete by end Jan. continue into Aberdeenshire's Road Safety 2020/21 and Team are currently undertaking delay in draw audit. down requested in budget report. A98 Shore Footway Reconstruction £29.7K Capital in Works complete and request Street, Macduff 2019/20 for additional funding in Phase 2 Invoiced to date = separate budget report. ↑ £36.3K
Page 15 of 20 04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status Craigshaw Dr Project reduced to feasibility and design only and £470K in 19/20 Traffic Regulation and re- Although it is cycle route delay draw down of budget to 2017/18 agreed, with designation Orders have gained hoped that match funding from Sustrans confirmed. Public Invoiced to date = committee approval. The Sustrans may engagement on Citizens Space completed on 12 Dec £8.4K Redetermination order for the soon approve 2018 and feedback analysed. shared use footway is still under the full £500k review by the Scottish Ministers match funding and an update on progress the works will requested. A further meeting not now take was undertaken with place in Sustrans to clarify the 2019/20 and a conditions they placed on delay in draw ↑ their match funding and down of the agreed minutes of this Nestrans Page 106 Page meeting do state that some of funding is the conditions in the award requested in letter will be removed. Still separate awaiting a formal acceptance budget report. that the details are in line with the PFE funding guidance and grant will be awarded. Wellheads Detailed Design and Contract document preparation £68.64 in 2019/20 Drawing for the land acquisition Still a risk that Cycle Link for an extension of the existing Welheads Drive (including 8.64K and construction work access Sustran's design shared use path to the north, by-passing the delay in draw down areas are being prepared. requirements roundabout, to connect with Farburn Terrace, the from 18/19) Heads of Terms are being cannot be extension will reduce conflict at the roundabout and prepared by ACC Estates for accommodated improve safety and directness for cyclists. Also Invoiced to date = land acquisition. The Detailed within the included will be the design of a cut-through at the £30.2K Design and generation of available 'Road' ↑ Market Street closure to create a safe and coherent tender drawings are ongoing, space and they cycle connection with the Welheads shared use cycle but will continue into 2019/20 may not route. Bid to Sustrans Community Links to seek and proposal in separate approve the full match funding of Nestrans contribution was approved budget report to draw down funding and available budget now £60K. £18K to 2020/21. application.
Page 16 of 20 04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status Junction Detailed design of options for alterations to Broomhill £49.5K in 19/20 Jacobs are progressing with Nestrans Alterations to Road - Anderson Drive and Westburn/Lang Stracht - (including 19.5K detailed design. ACC recently funding being Lock in the Anderson Drive with a focus on improvements for delay in draw down met with Sustrans in Edinburgh used to progress Benefits (LiB) of Active travel. Land around Woodhill House has from 18/19) to discuss the grant application detailed design, AWPR provisionally been confirmed to be within ownership decision not to provide funding but significant of ACC with no restrictions. Invoiced to date = towards the detailed design of risk that full £18.2K the scheme, which they match funding consider not ambitious for for design and cyclist benefit and as a result any subsequent they stated a new application construction may ↔ should be submitted for re- not be awarded designing the scheme in line via Sustrans. with the current version of
Page 107 Page Sustrans Places for Everyone design guidance. Request for delay in draw down of £11.3K in separate report.
RTP Active 2018/19 grant claimed at end June 2019 towards £220K grant award Grant award of £220K has been Seeking to Travel Grant F&B Way generic design of replacement bridges, offered in 2019/20 accepted. Grant being used to confirm that A944 active travel path feasibility work and as continue F&B Way bridge grant can again contributions towards Schoolhill public realm replacement work and A944 be claimed up improvements and Union Terrace Gardens design path feasibility and design to end June ↑ and development. (details below). and this is assumed in budget report.
Page 17 of 20 04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status Formartine & Set of generic designs, which can be applied being funded via Aberdeenshire Council has pre- Aim to gain Buchan Way throughout all these existing bridge locations on both £110K of the RTP selected two bridges on the confidence with the north and central sections of the F&B Way, for 19/20 grant route to replace: South Ugie the generic replacement of the existing bridge stock was Water 1 Bridge - which crosses designs and completed using 18/19 RTP grant. Invoiced to date = a river tests the larger span gain valuable £35K generic design type and feedback on all includes skews at both ends aspects of the and Chapeltown Creep which generic bridge crosses a farm field tests the replacement ↑ small span generic design type process through and has square spans at both the construction ends. Tender brief prepared and installation and to be issued in early Feb of these bridges.
Page 108 Page with construction complete by June 2020.
A944 cycle/ AECOM has been commissioned to develop options being funded via Desktop review completed and Information pedestrian path and undertake a STAG based appraisal for the £110K of the RTP development of options provided improvement of the A944 pedestrian and cycle route 19/20 grant underway. Initial stakeholder through with the goal of increasing the number of active travel and public engagement consultation to users along the route. Invoiced to date = ongoing until 14 Feb and feed into option ↑ £39.6K further details in separate development. consultations report. IC6e: This will be led by development officers within Council
Page 18 of 20 04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status IC7 - Airport Surface Connections IC7b: Bus services to From 23 Jan Stagecoach services 747 and 757 will Under the current All journeys Work with Airport use the AWPR to provide improved journey times by consultation on Stagecoach between partners to bus to Aberdeen Airport. The 747 replaces services service changes it is Stonehaven, develop links to 107 and current 747 and operates hourly throughout proposed that due to low Kingswells the airport most of the day between Montrose and Ellon using useage the 747 Peterhead - P&R, including the the AWPR. It runs from Montrose to Stonehaven Ellon - Aberdeen will only Craibstone upgrade of Dyce before serving Kingswells Park and Ride and operate between Ellon P&R P&R and the railway station Aberdeen Airport. The service then continues to Ellon and Aberdeen Airport 5 times Airport are and improved with some journeys extending to Cruden Bay and per day with 1 commuter proposed to be access for public Peterhead. Service 757 provides a direct link to the journey a day extending withdrawn. transport airport from Portlethen and Newtonhill and operates to/from Peterhead. It will hourly throughout most of the day, 7 days a week, operate Monday to Friday
Page 109 Page and will also stop at Kingswells Park and Ride. only and be supported by Aberdeenshire Council.
Page 19 of 20 04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status IC8 - Port Surface Connections IC8a: Transport links Stag Part 1 assessment of transport links to new Funding for study PBA (now Stantec) appointed Design Support to new harbour harbour commissioned by ACC and PBA consultants being provided for STAG part 2 and study feasibility of measures to at Bay of Nigg. appointed. Appraisal and delivery of any approved through the City being progressed. Traffic options being improve access outcomes to be funded through £25M allocation Region Deal surveys took place in June to progressed and to port facilities. within City Region Deal. Combined pre-appraisal and upgrade Paramics option part 1 Stag report completed. microsimulation model with post performance to AWPR opening traffic flows for be assessed quantitative analysis. Model using model. ↑ upgrade being undertaken for Wellington Rd study will also be used for this study. Model to be audited by Stantec
Page 110 Page when complete.
IC9 - Freight IC9b: Freight Action Finalised Freight Action Plan and Freight Forum Civitas project (see EC4b) E-cargo bikes Investigate Plan meetings can be viewed on Nestrans website. HGV contains a work package with to be potential for route maps for Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire projects relating to Freight. purchased measures to areas on Nestrans, Grampian Police and Council Freight adviser appointed. using LEZ provide more websites. Updated freight action plan developed in Regular meetings held with funding and reliable journey association with GreCor and launched at Freight freight adviser and application times for HGVs Forum meeting on 23 June 2014. implementation group and process being and identify a trial works progressing. developed for ↑ route for Investigating a last mile logistics use of bikes by implementation of plan. Looking to develop a NE businesses priority measures. freight app. A regional Electric in a pilot trial. vehicle strategy is being Further details considered. in separate report. Local Transport Projects to be developed where possible from LTS. ↑
Page 20 of 20 04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Sub Strategy 3: The Strategic Policy Framework ® = MTS project Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status TRAVEL BEHAVIOUR TB1 - Promoting Travel Planning and Travel Awareness TB1a: Travel Planning Continuing to provide assistance to Sweco, transport consultants South Dee Implementation and future support companies to develop travel plans. Travel continuing to work on the project planning development of Nestrans’ Know How website launched on 22 Civitas Portis project on on making Travel Planning Strategy. September 2016 to help organisations create Travel Planning in the North some 'Go Pro' travel plans. Promotional leaflets and Dee, Tullos and Altens videos of business cards have been produced on behalf business parks in Aberdeen. cycling in of Transport Scotland and Nestrans have A travel planning leaflet for the Aberdeen ↑ started to distribute these. ACC has agreed area has been produced and an extra electric co-wheels vehicle for will be printed and distributed. installation in North Dee area along with
Page 111 Page around 20 dropped kerbs in locations that need them to help improve walking. Dyce Travel Contribution to cost of consultancy study £15K in 19/20 Dyce Travel Planning held a Plan being led by ACC as available Civitas funding business breakfast for local insufficient to cover full cost. Invoiced in full businesses at Marriot Hotel on 16 Jan. Consultants Atkins have also carried out an online survey and worked ↑ with four organisations in Dyce including engagement events.
Page 1 of 7 TB1a: Implementation and future development of Nestrans’ Travel Planning Strategy.
04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status Travel Planning Various travel planning related packages to £71.76K in 2019/20 A refresh of the Regional Travel strategy & be commissioned via Civitas Portis work. (includes £11.76K Planning Strategy is to be Action Plan delay in draw down undertaken as part of the from 18/19) Regional Transport Strategy Invoiced to date = refresh and Civitas Portis. This £40.9K will consider lessons learnt via above Civitas Portis Travel ↑ Planning projects and provide guidance as to travel planning development with linkage to relevant information on Council websites. TB1c: Carshare Car share adverts printed on reverse of 260K Costs to be met Annual licence for getabout Encourage increased up- website pay and display parking tickets in from travel plan liftshare website and call Page 112 Page take of car-sharing and car Aberdeenshire. budget centre to be renewed for ↑ club schemes 2020/21. TB1d: GetaboutCar share lanes AberdeenshireSee IC2c Council used Smarter Choices Costs met from Getabout considering re- Continue to promote and Smarter Places funding to commission Travel Planning fresh of website to improve strengthen the Getabout upgrade to getabout website. New website budget editorial access and update brand. www.getabout.org.uk live and redirection from graphics. The costs would be old site in place. Getabout continuing to be met from the Travel Planning promoted as the Sustainable Transport Brand budget. at events. Getabout partnership celebrating ↑ 10th (tin) anniversary in 2019 and have produced money tin can promotional items, encouraging people to save money in the tins from travelling actively and sustainably.
Page 2 of 7 04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status TB2 - Promoting Active Travel TB2a: Cycle Parking 19/20 budget agreed and combined for use by Guidance for grant to be Quotations Develop an Active Travel Grant Scheme both the sustainable travel grant and cycle finalised and publicised. received from Action Plan with the aim of parking grant schemes. Funding to be provided Robertsons encouraging more people through approved 19/20 grant and funding to walk and cycle more budget to Aberdeenshire agreed for 28 ↑ often. Council for additional bike cycle hoops. racks at Portlethen Academy.
Wayfinding Bid has been submitted to ScotRail Station £5K in 2019/20 Further information has been signs Travel Plan Development Fund for £10K and requested by ScotRail and has this budget forms part of the Nestrans match been supplied. Awaiting funding in partnership with £5K via outcome of bid. Unlikely that Page 113 Page Aberdeenshire Council's Smarter Choices works will be completed this ↑ Smarter Places funding. financial year and delay in draw down requested in separate budget report.
Smarter Both Councils deliver SCSP projects under A 2nd round of the SCSP Open Proposal for Choices the Getabout brand. The Minister for Fund was announced in May match funding Smarter Places Transport announced on 30 May 2018 that 2019 with £2M again allocated should the bid (SCSP) an additional £2 million Smarter Choices for bids from £5K-£50K. Full be successful Smarter Places Open Fund launches in June information on the fund can be included in the 2018. The new funding stream from S Gov found on Paths for All website. draft 20/21 and delivered through Paths for All will be Nestrans has submitted budget report. available for public, community and third further information in ↑ sector organisations that want to change response to queries following people’s everyday travel behaviour. The the expression of interest to grants will be between £5000 and £50,000 the fund for collection of and will require to be match funded. Nestrans travel diaries/mode shift has received £5K match funding grant for consultancy work. 18/19 ped safety campaign.
Page 3 of 7 TB2a: Develop an Active Travel Action Plan with the aim of encouraging more people to walk and cycle more often.
04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status Cycling Transport Minister announced £4.5M to The Nestrans Cycle Awaiting Scotland Cycling Scotland over next 2 years to promote Development Officer has response from cycling, develop a cycle friendly campus and contacted Cycling Scotland Cycling provide cycle training through Bikeability with a request to install Scotland. Scotland. Cycling Scotland’s annual “Give Me further ped/cycle counters ↑ Cycle Space” campaign was launched on 2 across the north east and May 2014. feed into Cycling Scotland's Active Travel Open Data portal. Cycling Nestrans appointed an officer to help take Budget approved for 2019/20 Discussing Development forward bids, act as a liaison between north and will attract a grant of up to possible usage Officer east authorities and national bodies and to £100K from Sustrans. of Sustrans help design and promote cycling routes Investigating potential for 19/20 grant Page 114 Page across the region. Sustrans willing to match additional ped/cycle counters which can fund the post costs and up to further £50K to be funded via Cycling continue to be project costs by Nestrans with £100,000 per Scotland and agreement claimed until year capital for strategic routes in the NE. received from Sustrans to Mid May 2020 ↑ use 18/19 grant funding that and is shown was permitted to be carried as delay in forward to fund counters to draw down in instead fund improvements in budget Aberdeenshire on the reports. Deeside Way.
Page 4 of 7 TB2a: Develop an Active Travel Action Plan with the aim of encouraging more people to walk and cycle more often.
04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status Grampian Cycle The Grampian Cycle Partnership is now a GCP held its inaugural AGM More Partnership constituted group and has held several events on 27th January 2020, information on and meetings across Aberdeen, marking the conclusion of a the North East Aberdeenshire and Moray. Lee Craigie the successful first year. Tom 250 Active Travel Commissioner met with GCP on Collier was re-elected as Bikepacking 26 March. The GCP website has been Chair and looks forward to Adventure on launched http://www.grampian key local infrastructure 4 June 2020 cyclepartnership.org improvements, the Tour of can be found ↑ Britain and a GCP North East on the GCP 250 bikepacking event in the website. year ahead along with more individuals and organisations signing up as partners. Page 115 Page TB2b: HealthCycle & HTAPRange worksof bikes being purchased progressed and bydelivered HTAP for £43.7KFunding in to 2019/20 be HTAPAccessible progress bike purchased given in part via ↑ Work with NHS Grampian Transport support manager and sub groups. Further (incl £7K delay in 4 of progress update and and Community Planning Action Plan funding approved for 2018/19 to continue part draw down from HTAP annual report is Partnerships to deliver the funding of the HTAP Programme Support 18/19) separate item on agenda. ↑ Health and Transport Manager, general HTAP actions and provision Action Plan and achieve of the THInC service until end March 2019. Invoiced to date = objectives for a healthier £30.9K Community Nestrans are statutory partners, contribute £10K Revenue in Budget approved to meet An Active ↑
Page 5 of 7 04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status INCENTIVES AND ENFORCEMENT IE1 - Changing Choices through Incentives & Partnerships IE1a: Bus Operators Stagecoach unveiled a new look livery for Stagecoach consulting on a New Work with operators to their buses on 30 Jan, which will be rolled series of proposed network timetables identify possible fare out over the next 3 years and is colour services and timetable following the incentives to encourage coded Azure blue for its Local service, changes. Consultation events consultation increased bus use, Amber yellow for Longer, and Ocean green are being held on 10 and 12 are proposed particularly where this for Specialist. As part of the launch a one- Feb in Peterhead and to begin enables access to off mosaic bus livery, featuring the faces Fraserburgh, on 11 and 14 operation on employment or training of customers, drivers and communities Feb in Aberdeen and 13 Feb Monday 6 from across the 11 regions of the country in Ellon and Chapleton. Full April. ↑ served by Stagecoach was unveiled and is details on the times of the now being used in the north east. events and proposed Page 116 Page changes can be viewed on the Stagecoach website and the consultation closes on Sunday 16 Feb.
IE1b: NorthSupported East of TheOn 17 North May East Aberdeen of Scotland City Council Bus Alliance approved has £30.1K in 19/20 Works ongoing to finalise a Seeking to ↑ Through the Local Scotland Bus been approved by both Councils and the Bus Action Plan. arrange a Authorities/Bus Operators Alliance operators and has been signed. The Invoiced to date = meeting with Forum (LABOF) continue Transport Bill was passed on 10 October £2.9K the Transport to develop the Quality 2019 and received Royal Assent on 15 Scotland Bus Partnership for Public November 2019 making the Transport Policy team to Transport and the Bus (Scotland) Act 2019 law. The new legislation discuss Bus Punctuality Improvement will give local councils and RTPs more Service ↑ Partnership to achieve flexibility to improve services, either by Improvement improvements in bus working with bus companies or by stepping in Partnership provision and increased and running services themselves. It includes (BSIP) levels of bus use. new local franchising powers, and Agreements requirements on bus operators to provide more information to the public about routes, timetabling and fares.
Page 6 of 7 04/02/2020 Regional Transport Strategy nestrans Progress Report Current Actions/ Progress Future Actions/ Progress Strategy Strand RTS actions Project/Action Progress Budget To be done Target Status IE2 - Using Enforcement IE2a: Low Emission The Scottish Gov announced a commitment ACC awarded funding for ACC CGR Support enforcement of Zones to introduce LEZs into Scotland's 4 largest cargo bikes through £10.3M Cttee, 6 Feb to vehicle emission standards cities by 2020 and launched a consultation on for S Gov for LEZ schemes in consider to improve air quality, in building Scotland's LEZs on 6 Sept. SEPA 2019/20 and Nestrans report that Aberdeen City Centre and has constructed an emissions model for assisting with procurement proposes towns across the north Aberdeen City Centre and this is available to by undertaking tender applying to the east. ACC to assist with considerations for any LEZ process. Further details in Traffic development within Aberdeen. Traffic surveys separate report. LEZ Commissioner undertaken in June 2019 to update the objectives have been agreed. for a Traffic emissions model following the opening of the Consultation being Regulation AWPR. An LEZ Project Group (including undertaken on regulations Condition for ↑ Nestrans) has been initiated and will oversee and guidance for Scotland's 20% bus
Page 117 Page the development of Aberdeen's LEZ. ACC LEZs and draft response in services in awarded S Gov funding to appoint a separate report. City centre City Centre to consultant to assist in LEZ development and micro-sim model upgrade be at least to upgrade the City Centre micro-simulation model. Systra appointed following tender. ongoing and options for a Euro VI city centre LEZ being compliant. developed. Stakeholder and public engagement on options to be undertaken. E1 - Consultation and EngagementCARE North Nestrans and ACC involved in Interreg IV ACC successful in applying to ↑ E1a: Consultation As part of the A944 Active Travel Route The Placecheck tool is Take an active and and study being funded using part of the RTP available to use until 14 Feb inclusive approach to Engagement Active Travel Grant from Transport 2020 and further details are in engagement and Scotland, an online Placecheck tool has the separate publications and consultation with been created to gather comments on the consultations report. communities, relevant route and allocate them on the map to find ↑ sectors of the community out what people like/don't like and what and interest groups and they would like to see improved to stakeholders. enhance active travel between Westhill and Kingswells.
Page 7 of 7 This page is intentionally left blank
Page 118 04/02/2020 Health Transport Action Plan nestrans Progress Report Health and Transport Action Plan HTAP Sub Group Project/Actions Progress Budget Future Actions/ Progress Target Status HTAP General Quarterly The 2020 dates for meetings for both sub- Currently both sub-groups are meetings groups have been agreed. Various partners undertaking a review of the ↑ will host the meetings. actions within their workplans. HTAP Steering Diaries for 2020 have been checked and The Programme Manager has Group dates confirmed for the Steering Group finalised venues and will be ↑ meetings. issuing invitations soon. HTAP Annual The Programme Manager has provided the Once approved the HTAP Annual Report 2019 HTAP Steering Group Chair and Vice Chair Report will be submitted to the ↑ with a draft text only version of the HTAP three Community Planning Annual Report 2019. As in previous years Partnership Boards and available the graphic design will be provided by for all partner organisations to Aberdeenshire Council. circulate as each feels appropriate. Page 119 Page
Page 1 of 5 04/02/2020 Health Transport Action Plan nestrans Progress Report HTAP Sub Group Project/Actions Progress Budget Future Actions/ Progress Target Status HTAP The HTAP Programme Manager (jointly The Programme Manager will Programme funded by NHSG and Nestrans) led an event continue to seek out best practice ↑ Manager in Aberdeen on 27th November 2019 at in relation to travel solutions which Neatebox CEO Gavin Neate supporting people with presented to partners on the Welcome app disabilities to more easily make which assists people with disabilities use of the transport system and address the arrival anxiety which is often assist with attending health and cited as a reason for choosing not to travel. social care appointments. The The event was attended by a number of Programme Manager will continue partners. The Programme Manager to meet regularly with the many circulated details of the app. On follow up it partners and stakeholders is not yet clear whether any HTAP partner connected to the Programme. will subscribe to the app which is free for The Programme Manager will be members of the public to use. Recently attending a development day for Royal Bank of Scotland, DIAGEO, NorthLink the Mobility and Access
Page 120 Page Ferries and many other organisations, Committee for Scotland. This including NHS Tayside have signed up to valuable working relationship has work with Neatebox. The app has recieved resulted in HTAP being cited in multiple national awards for digital the MACS report on transport for inclusion. The Programme Manager health and social care. continues to support the adminstration and progression of HTAP, meets regularly with partners and introduces colleagues to one another across health, care and transport.
Page 2 of 5 04/02/2020 Health Transport Action Plan nestrans Progress Report HTAP Sub Group Project/Actions Progress Budget Future Actions/ Progress Target Status Transport and Public Health Public Nestrans invited NHSG Public Health to This piece of work has been Health/HTAP facilitate a Health & Equality Impact submitted as a proposed ↑ input to the Assessment. A workshop was held on 22nd presentation at an upcoming Health & November. national conference. Equalities Impact Assessment for the Regional Transport Strategy. NHSG Travel The Programme Manager and colleagues Through HTAP, partners have the Plan from partner organisations continue to opportunity to discuss how Travel ↑ provide advice and assistance to NHS Planning is delivered by public Grampian around the delivery of the NHSG bodies. The Programme Manager
Page 121 Page Travel Plan. Recently this has included the is awaiting confirmation from Programme Manager preparing a report on Sustrans regarding an invitation the "Case for a NHSG Travel Planning to speak directly with members of Officer." Good work is being done by the HTAP Steering Group. different departments within NHSG. Links with national partners are being used to raise the issue of funding for active and sustainable travel projects within health boards.
HTAP Social A project group has been formed to deliver An Aberdeen pilot has been Prescibing Pilot this action. formalised and is being taken ↑ forward.
Page 3 of 5 04/02/2020 Health Transport Action Plan nestrans Progress Report HTAP Sub Group Project/Actions Progress Budget Future Actions/ Progress Target Status Access to Health and Social Care Sub-Group The current Sub-Group Chair will be leaving The HTAP Programme Manager Chair his current role with Aberdeen City Health & and partners are considering how ↑ Social Care Partnership. to approach the loss of the Sub- Group Chair. It is hoped that Health & Social Care Partnerships will follow the lead set by ACH&SCP.
Transport to THInC continues to be funded by Nestrans, It is hoped that in the near future Health & Social NHSG, ACC and AC. After seeking a way a short animated video explaining ↑ Care Information forward with Moray the Steering Group have THInC will be available for use on Centre (THInC) agreed that THInC will be actively promoted social media and on partner within all three local authorities within the websites etc. NHS Grampian boundary. Page 122 Page Mid-Deeside With £3K funding from Nestrans in 2019, it Helping fund small projects such Community has been possible to keep a volunteer driver as this help foster goodwill ↑ Trust scheme operating. The project advertised between public bodies and local using the THInC number, funds Mid-Deeside community organisations. It is Community Transport to assist people hoped that helping sustain such attending a hospital or social care innovation will support the need appointment. for growing awareness across the whole system of transport for health and social care issues and opportunities.
Page 4 of 5 04/02/2020 Health Transport Action Plan nestrans Progress Report HTAP Sub Group Project/Actions Progress Budget Future Actions/ Progress Target Status BeLinkD The Programme Manager attended a The HTAP Programme Manager meeting of Community Planning Partners has been invited to present to ↑ undertaking a small pilot providing Community Planning partners on transport through a community transport the links between rural transport, organisation. The project has an ambition social isolation and poor health to connect residents in Maud with services, outcomes. It is hoped that the including health and social care, foodbanks, pilot will be supported by HTAP employability and education in Fraserburgh partners. Existing funding (from and Peterhead. Fairer Scotland) will at present only allow it to operate for 3 months. New The Programme Manager has established The links between health, social Developments links with project leads in all three Health care and transport sectors are ↑ and Social Care Partnerships taking forward developing. Awareness of how
Page 123 Page the development of new centres for health service design and and social care delivery. transport/access considerations interact is increasing.
Page 5 of 5 This page is intentionally left blank
Page 124 Agenda Item 7.2
NORTH EAST SCOTLAND TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP – 12 February 2020
7.2 EU Funding and Programmes
Purpose of Report
The purpose of this report is to inform members of recent publications and consultation papers relating to the changes to funding from EU programmes following departure from the European Union.
Access to EU Funding as a Third Country
The EU's long-term budget process is governed by a multi-year agreement called the Multi- annual financial framework (MFF).
The next long-term EU budget period begins on 1 January 2021 and will last for a total of seven years until the end of 2027. Following departure from the European Union at the end of January 2020, under EU regulations, the UK is now considered a third country.
The European Commission has published proposals for funding programmes that will run during the 2021-27 MFF. Negotiations on these funding programmes are currently ongoing at EU level. The proposals for funding programmes show there are a number that are likely to be open to third country participation in the EU budget period 2021-27.
The UK could negotiate to participate as a third country in these programmes but would need to abide by the conditions set out in the appropriate programme regulations. The conditions are likely to include making a financial contribution to the programmes, however it is currently unknown what level of contribution the UK would be required to pay to participate in individual programmes.
Participation as a third country would also result in the UK lacking the capacity to influence the content and operation of the funding programmes in comparison to its previous status as a Member State.
It is not certain at this time which funding programmes the UK might negotiate to enter beyond 2020, nor whether negotiations will have concluded in time to allow participation in the programmes from their outset in January 2021. It is also not certain what role the Scottish Government may have in any negotiations with the EU.
If negotiations are not concluded until after the 2021-27 programmes have begun, it is uncertain how this may impact on the UK's participation as well as the calculation of its financial contribution.
The European Commission has indicated that negotiations with third countries for funding programmes are likely to begin in 2020. It is likely that the UK's intentions towards participation as a third country in EU funding programmes post 2020 will become clearer as the new UK Government agrees its position in relation to EU programmes. The European Commission has submitted draft proposals to establish the legal basis for EU funding programmes for the period 2021-27. Draft proposals for the following six funding streams were submitted in May and June 2018:
Page 125
• Connecting Europe Facility; • Creative Europe; • Environment and Climate Action (LIFE); • Erasmus; • Horizon Europe; • European Territorial Cooperation fund.
These draft proposals include the framework for third country participation in the programmes and consequently the criteria the UK would need to agree to, if it were to join any of these as a third country. The criteria for the first five funding programmes (i.e excluding the European Territorial Cooperation funding) are broadly similar in that they are all open to third countries who are one of the following: • A member of the European Free Trade Association and the European Economic Area (subject to conditions of the European Economic Area agreement); • Acceding countries, candidates and potential candidates (in line with pre-agreed terms and conditions for their participation in EU programmes); • Covered by the European Neighbourhood Policy (in line with pre-agreed terms and conditions for their participation in EU programmes).
In addition, the draft proposals allow for the participation of third countries who do not fall within these categories - subject to the agreement of pre-determined conditions. This latter category is likely to be the option pursued by the UK. The proposed budget for European territorial cooperation (ETC) funds in the MFF 2021-27 was €8.43 billion (2018 prices). It was reported in a briefing in January 20191 that the European Parliament's Committee on Regional Development had proposed an increase in the ETC budget to €11.16 billion (in 2018 prices). The Scottish Government is keen to continue to take part in European Territorial Cooperation programmes. On 16 September 2019, the Scottish Government wrote2 to Northern Periphery and Arctic project partners. The letter included the following statement on its hopes for continued Scottish participation in European Territorial funding post 2020: “For the future programming period from 2021 the UK is named in the draft EU ETC regulations as a third country and like other third countries such as Norway and Switzerland we see no reason why Scotland and the rest of the UK should not continue to participate after Brexit. It is the Scottish Government’s policy to continue to cooperate with our European neighbours through these programmes and we are doing what we can to ensure that that happens, including pressing the United Kingdom Government to ensure that funding is made available.”
European Territorial Cooperation Programmes Consultation
European Territorial Cooperation (otherwise known as Interreg) programmes are EU funding programmes that give money to organisations from different countries to work together on a project.
Scotland is currently part of seven European Territorial Cooperation (ETC) programmes. North East Scotland is involved in several of these programmes, including the North Sea
1 https://www.europarl.europa.eu/RegData/etudes/BRIE/2018/628228/EPRS_BRI(2018)628228_EN.pdf 2 https://portal.scotlandeuropa.com/file/download?id=2920
7.2 EU Funding and Programmes
Page 126
programme, Urbact, Interreg Europe and the North West Europe programme. The current North Sea programme has the following aims: o Strengthening research, technological development and innovation; o Preserving and protecting the environment and promoting resource efficiency; o Promoting climate change adaptation, risk prevention and management; o Green transport and mobility.
The current programmes run from 2014-2020. The new programmes, which will run from 2021-2027, are now starting to be designed. The Scottish Government is keen to inform thinking on the design of the future programmes. To inform the design, the Scottish Government held a number of consultation events in 2019 and the findings were collated into the summary report ‘European Territorial Cooperation in Scotland Post 2020’, which can be accessed at http://www.eprc-strath.eu/News-and-events/news/news-467.html
The 2021-2027 programmes need to be designed according to the requirements set out in the EU Regulations. These have not been finalised, however they are expected to require programmes to support up to three of the following areas: o a smarter Europe by promoting innovative and smart economic transformation; o a greener, low-carbon Europe by promoting clean and fair energy transition, green and blue investment, the circular economy, climate adaptation and risk prevention and management; o a more connected Europe by enhancing mobility and regional ICT connectivity; o a more social Europe implementing the European Pillar of Social Rights (e.g. increasing the socioeconomic integration of marginalised communities and groups, increasing access to quality employment and training, equal access to health care); o a Europe closer to citizens by fostering the sustainable and integrated development of urban, rural, coastal areas and local initiatives.
In addition, programmes can also support two Interreg specific objectives: o Better Interreg Governance (e.g. helping local authorities); o A safer and more secure Europe, in particular: border crossing management, mobility and migrant management, protection and integration of migrants.
The consultation focuses on determining the main aims that the Scottish Government should be seeking to achieve through all ETC programmes and the priorities of the programmes. In addition to other focused questions on specific programmes, it also asks how Interreg Europe could help public authorities improve the design and delivery of policies and related services, and to what extent Scotland should seek to align Urbact with shared priorities in city-region deals.
The Scottish Government are inviting responses to this consultation by 27 March 2020. This consultation can be responded to online at https://consult.gov.scot/economic- development/european-territorial-cooperation-programmes/
7.2 EU Funding and Programmes
Page 127
European Structural Funds Consultation
Following departure from the EU, the UK is no longer due to receive European Structural Funds. The purpose of these funds is to “invest in job creation and a sustainable and healthy European economy and environment.”3. In Scotland, they have played a vital role in reducing disparities between different parts of the country for over 40 years.
Under the current 2014-2020 programmes, Scotland benefits from over £780 million of funding through the European Regional Development Fund and the European Social Fund, which invest in key policies such as the Modern Apprenticeship schemes and the Low Carbon Infrastructure Transition Programme. The loss of this funding may have a significant impact on the ability of local authorities, community groups, funding bodies and enterprise and skills agencies to deliver the kinds of initiatives that will drive inclusive economic growth and promote wellbeing and cohesion in communities right across the country.
Aberdeenshire Council has calculated that it could lose £12m a year as a result of changes to funding support.
The UK and Scottish Governments are giving consideration to replacing these programmes with domestic ones. There is limited information on the priorities of these programmes; the amount of funding available; or governance and delivery arrangements. At present, there is an intention from the UK Government to introduce a ‘Shared Prosperity Fund’ linked to the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy.
In this context, the Scottish Government is conducting a consultation to seek views on how any replacement funding vehicle could best meet the needs of citizens, businesses and communities. The consultation asks if any new funding Programme should be aligned to Scottish, UK Government, and/or EU Policy.
There are three key questions to the consultation: o What are the main aims that the future funding should seek to achieve? o What outcomes and impacts should the funding deliver? o How should the success of the funding be measured?
The Scottish Government are inviting responses to this consultation by 12 February 2020. Aberdeenshire Council has drafted their response to the consultation, which was presented to the Infrastructure Services Committee on 23 January 2020.
This consultation can be responded to online at https://consult.gov.scot/economic- development/replacement-of-european-structural-funds/
Recommendations
It is recommended that the Board:
1. Note the report; and 2. Note the opportunity to respond to the consultation on European Territorial Cooperation Programmes.
NL/31 January 2020
3 https://www.gov.scot/publications/replacement-european-structural-funds-scotland-post-eu-exit/pages/6/
7.2 EU Funding and Programmes
Page 128 Agenda Item 7.3
NORTH EAST SCOTLAND TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP – 12 February 2020
7.3 Publications and Consultations
Purpose of Report
The purpose of this report is to inform members of recent publications and consultation papers of interest and to agree a response where appropriate.
Publications and Consultations
❖ Aberdeen City Council EV Framework
Consultants Arcadis are currently producing an Electric Vehicle (EV) strategy for Aberdeen City Council. As part of this work, a consultation to gather views from the public and stakeholders has been launched. It can be accessed at: https://consultation.aberdeencity.gov.uk/planning/developing-an-electric-vehicle-framework- for-aberd/
Nestrans received a letter invitating a response as a key stakeholder and a member of the client group for the project, the deadline for response was 27 January 2020. The response is attached as Appendix A to this report.
❖ ACC Active Travel Consultation
Aberdeen City Council’s current Active Travel Action Plan covers the period from 2017-2021. However, it is heavily dependent on the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route (AWPR) being completed for some actions to be carried out.
Given that the AWPR is now complete and beginning to influence traffic patterns and flows, coupled with the fact that the current Plan is halfway through its cycle, the Council believes this is an opportune moment to refresh the existing Plan to better reflect the aspirations contained within strategies including the City Centre Master Plan, Roads Hierarchy and Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan to ensure it better reflects the needs of everyone when considering Active Travel measures and improvements. This consultation is live until 14th February 2020. https://consultation.aberdeencity.gov.uk/place/active-travel-action-plan-refresh/
❖ A944 Active Travel Route Study Nestrans, working with Aberdeen City Council, Aberdeenshire Council and Sustrans have commissioned a study to explore options for upgrading the active travel route along the A944 between Westhill and Kingswells. The study is being progressed in line with national, regional and local policy objectives to increase levels of active travel and reduce private car journeys. AECOM has been commissioned to undertake this study. As part of this, gathering views from the public is clearly an essential element. An online Placecheck tool has been created to enable this to be done quickly and effectively by ‘dropping a pin’ on the map to detail what an individual likes about the route, doesn’t like or what is suggested to see improvements to enhance active travel opportunities between Westhill and Kingswells.
Page 129
Comments offered will assist in the final reporting for this project. The Placecheck tool will be available until 14th February 2020. https://placecheck.info/maps/view/index.php?display=about&map=293
❖ Berryden Corridor Improvement In December 2019, Aberdeen City Council consulted on this project. Its aim is to improve the efficiency of the road network in and around this area through improving journey time reliability, relieving congestion and improving infrastructure for walking and cycling. The improved corridor will provide a more appropriate route for traffic accessing the city; the next step towards providing a transport network to meet Aberdeen’s needs and city centre aspirations. The Project will provide two lanes in both directions throughout the length of the corridor, widening the existing road between Skene Square and Ashgrove Road and creating a new road between Ashgrove Road and St Machar Drive. Alongside the new carriageway there will be shared and segregated infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists. https://consultation.aberdeencity.gov.uk/resources/berrydencorridorimprovement/
❖ Low Emission Zone Regulations and Guidance
On 17 December 2019, Transport Scotland published the Low Emission Zone Regulations and Guidance consultation. It is now live and published at the following link: https://consult.gov.scot/transport-scotland/low-emission-zones/.
This consultation seeks views on issues of a technical nature that underpin the operation and delivery of Low Emission Zones, including emission standards, exemptions and penalty charges. A draft response is attached as Appendix B to this report.
The consultation will close on the 24 February 2020.
❖ STPR2
On 3 December 2019, Transport Scotland launched an online survey for the Second Strategic Transport Projects Review (STPR2), a Scotland-wide review of the strategic transport network across all transport modes. STPR2 will inform transport investment in Scotland for the next twenty years and there is an opportunity for individuals or organisations to input towards delivering the vision, priorities and outcomes for transport set out in the draft National Transport Strategy (NTS2).
The survey is primarily aimed at areas of the country which are not as far progressed as the north east of Scotland and acknowledges that, in this area, stakeholder consultation has already been conducted. The survey closed at 5pm on Friday 10th January 2020.
❖ Draft Orders – Laurencekirk junction
Transport Scotland published Draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report for the proposed A90/A937 Laurencekirk Junction Improvement scheme on 19 December 2019 for formal comment. The Statutory Consultation Period closes on 14 February 2020.
7.3 Publications and Consultations
Page 130
Feedback to published draft Orders can be made to Transport Scotland at a90a937- [email protected] before the closing date. A public consultation event took place In Laurencekirk on Friday 10th of January 2020 and Kelly Wiltshire from Nestrans attended.
❖ A Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CAV) Roadmap for Scotland, Transport Scotland
On the 30th December 2019 Transport Scotland published ‘A Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CAV) Roadmap for Scotland’. The document ‘explores the opportunities associated with the adoption of CAV technologies on Scotland’s roads and the challenges in their deployment. It sets out the relationship between CAV technologies and the Scottish Government’s transport and economic ambitions. It also explores where and how CAV technologies could be utilised, where and how we can benefit from contributing to their development and what interventions and initiatives might be required for us to unlock these opportunities.’
The overarching message of the document is that ‘Scotland is open for business to continue the testing, trialling and refining of Connected and Autonomous Vehicle technologies’.
The full document can be viewed at https://www.transport.gov.scot/media/46708/a-cav- roadmap-for-scotland-final.pdf
❖ City of Edinburgh Council – City Mobility Plan
Edinburgh has produced a City Mobility Plan to 2030, the Draft City Mobility Plan (CMP) in mid-January. It represents a ten-year vision for mobility and transport in the city, and is closely aligned to the forthcoming City Plan 2030, the Council’s second Local Development Plan, which aims to transform the city’s development to manage Edinburgh’s growth sustainably.
The Mobility Plan replaces the Local Transport Strategy 2014-2019, and centres on four strategic priorities: enhancing public transport, people-friendly streets, planning new developments and managing demand.
A three-stage approach outlines a package of measures to be implemented during the lifespan of the plan, building on progress made by the Council in recent years to develop and promote sustainable and accessible transport. The first phase will incorporate several significant projects already underway in Edinburgh, such as the construction of a tram route extension to Newhaven, the delivery of a Low Emissions Zone and the City Centre Transformation programme, with an aim of changing the way in which people move around the city centre.
The long-term objective is for a city centre which is largely car free, with a workplace parking levy, although this would aim for reducing revenue as car use to commute declines.
Edinburgh has started an eight-week public consultation on the draft plan alongside a comprehensive travel behaviour survey. The results of these will form the basis of a finalised plan to be brought to committee later this year supported by a delivery plan packaging and phasing the implementation of actions and policy measures.
7.3 Publications and Consultations
Page 131
Recommendations
It is recommended that the Board:
1. Note the response contained in Appendix A to Aberdeen City Council’s Consultation on Electric Vehicles and homologate officers’ comments; 2. Consider the draft response in Appendix B to the Scottish Government’s Scotland’s Low Emission Zones – Consultation on Regulations and Guidance and advise on any additional comments or amendments; 3. Note the other publications and consultations outlined above.
KW/JA/RD/4 February 2020
7.3 Publications and Consultations
Page 132
APPENDIX A Nestrans’ response to Aberdeen City Council’s Consultation on Electric Vehicles
1. Please provide your name, organisation (or team within Aberdeen City Council) and contact details
Kelly Wiltshire, Nestrans, 27-29 King Street, Aberdeen, AB24 5AA, 01224 346680, [email protected] 2. Does your organisation have any Electric Vehicle (EV) company or fleet vehicles and have you any plans to increase this EV fleet? Please provide details of the number and type of vehicles.
No, part of our role is to encourage the uptake of electric vehicles and look at options such as not replacing like with like but for example, a small ICE van with an electric cargo bike rather than an electric van.
3. Have you ever driven an electric vehicle?
An electric bike, but not a car or van, I have been a passenger in them.
4. What do you think are the main challenges associated with encouraging an uptake of EVs in Aberdeen?
Initial cost of the vehicles is higher than an ICE vehicle and there is range anxiety. Also charging points for people who do not have a dedicated driveway/parking space at home/work is a perceived challenge. 5. What do you think are the main opportunities for encouraging an uptake of EVs in Aberdeen?
Electric charging hubs that are linked to other modes such as near bus stops, active travel hubs and railway stations. Using car parks for residential charging overnight that are used by schools/public sector/commercial during the day but are empty overnight. 6. Who do you think should be responsible for providing EV charging infrastructure? • Councils • Other public sector organisations • Private sector organisations • All of the above
All of the above. Should also include developers for any new developments.
7. Are there any planned schemes, initiatives or campaigns that you know of that may support the uptake of EVs in Aberdeen?
Promoting the existing funding opportunities through the Energy Savings Trust. 8. Do you have any information/data that might be useful to inform the development of the EV Framework?
Nestrans annual monitoring report: https://www.nestrans.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Monitoring-report-2019.pdf
Also suggest if not already speaking to Dundee City Council and look at HItrans Regional EV Strategy and Tactran’s EV strategy
7.3 Publications and Consultations
Page 133
9. Where do you think additional EV charge point infrastructure should be provided in Aberdeen? Please be as specific and detailed as possible. Also, please consider which charger types should be provided? Rapid (capable of recharging a car from flat to 80% in 30 minutes), fast (capable of recharging a car in 2-4 hours), slow (capable of recharging a car in 8-12 hours) and also whether there should be single or multiple chargers provided at suggested locations
Rapid charging at current petrol stations/main roads, fast food take aways/drive throughs. Fast chargers at retail parks and supermarkets and public car parks, slow in park and ride sites, railway station car parks and workplaces and residential areas where people are parked for a considerable amount of time or overnight. 10. How should this infrastructure be managed? In your answer please consider the following. • Should the charging service and parking be free of charge? • Should tariffs be applied for users of EV charge points and parking? • Should different tariffs be applied depending on speed of charger (the faster the charger type, the higher the price for usage)? • Should time limits be introduced for length of stay at electric vehicle charge points? • Should there be penalties for overstaying the time limit? • How should the public interface with the charge points? Should there be contactless payment and/or membership of a chargepoint network with direct billing?
Charging should not be free as it is being used as a type of fuel and people are used to paying for refuelling thier car, but the coat should be appropriate to the cost of the electricity. Eg significantly cheaper than fuelling a car with petrol/diesel.
Parking is interesting. If people can currently park for free such as residential streets, school/workplace car parks, railway stations and park and ride sites then this should continue to be free. If the charging points are in locations that are currently charged for such as shopping centres or public car parks, then yes these should continued to be charged for.
An appropriate time limit for rapid and fast charging should be put in place but for slow charging this is less practical. This should be done to ensure that the rapid and fast chargers are available for as many people as possible and people are not blocking the space once their vehicle has been charged. Yes the penalties should be similar for overstaying at a car park.
In terms of interfacing with the charging points contactless and membership of a ChargePoint network should be available. 11. What incentives and complementary initiatives should be introduced to encourage the use of EVs in Aberdeen?
EV’s should be encouraged in Aberdeen by perhaps having cheaper residential parking permits for them than other vehicles. Access to the Low Emission Zone (when it comes into force) should be promoted. 12. Do you have any other comments?
EV’s should be part of the travel hierarchy.
With Active travel at the top, then public transport, low emission vehicles, car sharing and solo car driving.
7.3 Publications and Consultations
Page 134
APPENDIX B Scotland’s Low Emission Zones - Consultation on Regulations and Guidance Questions
1a Do you agree with the proposed present-day emission standards for Scottish LEZs? If not, why not?
Yes, Nestrans is supportive of the aims to improve air quality and public health as a result of the present day emission standards for Scottish LEZ’s, but it is important to recognise the risk of consequences to accessibility should the LEZ cover a large area and consideration should be given to mitigating this if necessary eg if public transport services fail to meet standards and are withdrawn.
1b What are your views on Scotland making a transformative shift to zero or ultra-low emission city centres by 2030? Please be as specific as possible in your reasoning.
Agree this is required and is in line with Nestrans’ emerging Regional Transport Strategy, but the development and implementation timescales should be realistic to achieve and afford ie currently there are uncertainties over development and delivery time (depending on potential for challenge) and cost and resources requirements
2a Which of the proposed national LEZ exemptions do you agree with? Please be as specific as possible in your reasoning.
Proposed categories are: Emergency Vehicles, Military Vehicles, Historic Vehicles, Vehicles for Disabled Persons and Showman Vehicles?
Nestrans’ view is that whatever exemptions are agreed should be applied nationally to provide consistency across the country, but should be set to encourage everyone to comply with emission standards without restricting emergency vehicles in an emergency ie blue light situation.
2b Are there any other LEZ exemptions you would propose? If so, what should these exemptions be and why?
There is a case for exempting Specialist Vehicles which by their nature may be very high cost and expected to have a long life in fleet management or construction. They would likely have a low incidence of being in the LEZ area ie only there if being used for a specific purpose within the area – such as cranes, gritters, etc.
3a Do you agree with the proposed base level and subsequent tiers of penalty charges for each vehicle type as outlined in Table 5 (Base level £60, Bus and HGV £500, ramped up for repeat offenders)? Please explain your answer.
Yes, a base level similar to existing penalty charges for other road based enforcement schemes is reasonable and the subsequent incremental tiers should assist in discouraging repeat offences.
7.3 Publications and Consultations
Page 135
3b Which surcharge ‘curve’ in Figure 1 represents the best approach to designing a surcharge?
The tiered graph 2 would be easily understood and help discourage increasing numbers of repeat offences.
3c How should the surcharge approach be applied in order to discourage non-compliant vehicles from driving within a LEZ?
Agreeing a fixed number of contraventions in a fixed time period of days resulting in moving up a penalty tier is reasonable and easily understood and implemented. The suggested number of 3 contraventions in a 28 day period resulting in a progression to the next surcharge tier would be fair.
3d How many days should lapse before a registered keeper of a vehicle returns to the base tier of the penalty charge?
A period of 28 days as per the timescale for going up a tier (if this is what is decided) would be reasonable and clear to understand and implement.
4 Do you agree with the general principles of the LEZ enforcement regime? If not, why not?
The general principles are well defined, however the resources to install, maintain and operate the enforcement regime may be onerous for the local authorities (particularly authorities already receiving lower settlements) and this should continue to attract Scottish Government support in a fair and equitable manner across all areas.
5 What are your views on the proposed list of ‘other persons’ that local authorities must consult with on their LEZ plans?
Agree that this should form a bare minimum of who should be consulted. A number of those mentioned as not being included in the ‘other persons’ list will be picked up by the mandatory organisations if they are deemed to be “local businesses, and drivers, likely to be affected by the proposal”.
6 If a LEZ scheme review was undertaken, what elements would you expect the review to investigate and how would the review ensure transparency and accountability?
The review should consider the effectiveness and efficiency of the scheme and any other topics deemed to be of interest/relevance at the time the review is commissioned eg are the objectives set for the LEZ still appropriate or should they be added to or modified. The “effectiveness“ would investigate if the air quality standards are being met within the zone and neighbouring areas to ensure the problem has not just been displaced. The “efficiency” of the scheme would investigate secondary issues concerning how well the zone is operating such as number of contraventions, repeat contraventions, payment rates, number of challenges and their success rate, performance of enforcement technology etc. An independent organisation could be appointed to undertake the review or to audit the findings to ensure transparency and accountability.
7.3 Publications and Consultations
Page 136
7 What secondary objectives should be created for LEZ schemes? Please be as specific as possible in your reasoning
The suggested topical areas of modal shift, public transport provision, Planning/place making, public health and wellbeing and reducing traffic levels all seem appropriate and supportive of secondary objectives. As stated in Q6, it may be necessary for the Local Authority to review the objectives set for the LEZ as part of any review undertaken.
8 Do you agree with the steps outlined in Figure 2 for enabling a LEZ scheme to come into effect? If not, why not?
After step 5, the return to scheme design should be labelled as Not Approved by Scottish Ministers, if however it is approved by Ministers why does the local authority have to consider the final design again – if there is a specific reason perhaps this step 6 should be renamed to make the purpose of this stage more explicit. There is no mention of when/how any challenges to the scheme will be considered ie if there is a need for an inquiry.
7.3 Publications and Consultations
Page 137
9 How can local authorities maximise the technological opportunities available from the deployment of approved devices?
It may be helpful if data from Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras could be used to assist with journey representation in transport modelling software applications, or for monitoring statistics, or for journey time/congestion applications, or any other systems that information on travel volume, mode, routeing, journey time etc (be that historic summary information or dynamic data) that is of value to the local, regional or national transport authority without violating individual data protection rights.
10 What positive or negative impacts do you think the LEZ proposals outlined within this consultation may have on: (a) particular groups of people, with particular reference to ‘protected characteristics’ listed above (b) the very young and old (c) people facing socioeconomic disadvantages
Anyone within any of these groups that lives, works or spends time within the boundary of the LEZ area would benefit from improved air quality and those choosing to travel actively should experience health benefits. There may however be a risk that those outwith the zone may be adversely affected if there is displacement of non-compliant vehicles. People within these groups (whether they live within or outwith the zone) that have a non-compliant vehicle, or use public transport may be at risk of reduced accessibility if they are less able to afford to purchase a compliant vehicle, or if the level of public transport services reduce, or increase in cost as a result of the LEZ. There may also be an adverse impact to those in these groups if they are physically unable to choose to travel actively over a certain distance.
11 Do you think the LEZ proposals outlined within this consultation are likely to increase, reduce or maintain the costs and burdens placed on business sectors? Please be as specific as possible in your reasoning.
Any organisations that use vehicles are likely to have increased costs and burdens relative to the composition of their fleet if they need to upgrade it in advance of planned renewal and they may lose any residual value from sales of older vehicles if the market for second hand non-compliant vehicles is impacted by the introduction of LEZs. They may also experience indirect costs from suppliers’ costs associated with deliveries, from incurring penalties or travelling greater distances around a zone. There may also be adverse financial impact should they lose customers if they have to increase charges to cover vehicle upgrades, or if customers or staff avoid the LEZ area. Small businesses and voluntary or community organisations that have smaller operating budgets may struggle to comply with the requirements and remain financially viable. There may be benefit within the zone if it becomes a more pleasant place to spend time there and this results in attracting businesses, staff and customers.
12 What impacts do you think the LEZ proposals outlined within this consultation may have on the personal data and privacy of individuals?
Automatic Number Plate Recognition data can be connected to individual registered vehicle owners and their home addresses and the full registration plate will be needed to issue notices for
7.3 Publications and Consultations
Page 138
contraventions, but partial plates could be used for the other purposes discussed in Q9 to partially anonymise the data and protect individual privacy.
13 Do you think the LEZ proposals outlined within this consultation are like to have an impact on the environment? If so, which ones and how? Please be as specific as possible in your reasoning.
The proposals should help to encourage modal shift and accelerate the move to low emission vehicles, thereby helping to reduce carbon emissions and pollution levels, which would have a positive impact on both the built and natural environment. There is a risk that displacement of non- compliant vehicles could have an adverse impact outwith the zone if greater distances are travelled by these vehicles.
14 Do you have any other comments that you would like to add on the Scottish Government’s LEZ proposals outlined within this consultation?
7.3 Publications and Consultations
Page 139 This page is intentionally left blank
Page 140 Agenda Item 8
NORTH EAST SCOTLAND TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP – 12 February 2020
8 Information Bulletin
Purpose of Report
The purpose of this report is to provide information and updates for the Board on a number of matters not requiring decisions.
Getabout update
Getabout advertising has continued over the festive period and into the New Year on two fronts: • pedestrian road safety; and • travelling into town by park and ride or by public transport.
There was a stand promoting Getabout at The Bon Accord Shopping Centre on Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th January 2020. Surveys were carried out and information available. Below is an overview. • Surveys – Saturday 12 January: 20 surveys filled in at the stand – 330 people spoken to throughout the day, 330 leaflets given out, along with various marketing materials. • Surveys – Sunday 13 January: 24 surveys filled in at the stand - 270 people spoken to throughout the day, 270 leaflets given out, along with various marketing materials.
Moving into Spring, Getabout will be focusing on more active travel methods such as walking and cycling. The Getabout Cycle Road Show will also be at several events in support of Climate Week North East 20-29 March 2020 https://www.climateweekaberdeen.org/#. Work is also ongoing to update the Getabout website to be more user-friendly.
Aberdeenshire Council have commissioned Get Cycling to take forward road shows during March 2020. These will take place in selected schools and ‘Integrated Travel Town’ towns. The road shows will have a range of activities and work with local partners to deliver key travel behaviour change messages. The dates and venues for the public road shows are:
Saturday 14 March – The Gordon Schools, Huntly Sunday 15 March– The Garioch Centre, Inverurie Saturday 21 March – Portlethen Academy, Portlethen Saturday 28 March – The Sports Centre, Fraserburgh Sunday 29 March – Ellon Academy, Ellon
8 Information Bulletin Page 1
Page 141 Thistle Assistance Card
Thistle Assistance cards are jointly funded by all seven Regional Transport Partnerships and Transport Scotland to assist people who need to tell the driver or someone else on public transport, that they require some additional time or assistance in a discreet way.
Further information can be found on https://www.thistleassistance.com/. Nestrans has a stock of these cards, which can be posted out and our office is a card pick up point. https://www.thistleassistance.com/get-the-card/
Infrastructure Commission
Members may recall that Nestrans contributed to the Infrastructure Commission’s Call for Evidence in May 2019.
On 20 January 2020, the Infrastructure Commission announced that they had published their Initial Findings. A copy of the report is available at: https://www.dropbox.com/s/znz0eu5540idxxo/FullReport.pdf?dl=0
The Infrastructure Commission for Scotland (ICS) report consists of a report to the Scottish Government of a 30-year infrastructure strategy. Emphasis is on delivering an inclusive, net zero carbon economy. It sets out eight overarching themes and 23 specific recommendations for Scottish Government to consider. The themes are: 1. Future infrastructure decisions to be based on delivery of an inclusive net zero carbon economy; 2. Increased emphasis on “place-based” infrastructure; 3. Maximise, broaden the use of and better maintain existing assets; 4. Accelerate the decarbonisation of heat and transport; 5. Develop appropriately devolved regulatory and pricing frameworks; 6. Escalate and expand access to digital and technology services; 7. Improve and extend public engagement to shape decision making; and 8. Explore options for long-term and independent infrastructure advice.
The global focus on climate change, together with Scottish Government’s own ambitious Net Zero Carbon target by 2045, have profoundly influenced the work of the ICS in the development of this 30-year strategy. While infrastructure investment remains a vital factor in supporting the economy and acting as an enabler to deliver effective public services, future infrastructure decisions should be based on their ability to clearly demonstrate their contribution to an inclusive, net zero carbon economy. 8 Information Bulletin Page 2
Page 142
The next stage of the ICS’ 18-month programme will see the Commission provide guidance to Scottish Government on how best to consider the 23 recommendations set out in the strategy.
Press and Communications
A summary of Press Enquiries, Media Releases and coverage relevant to Nestrans is attached as Appendix A to this report.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Board note the contents of this report.
RD/KW/LJ/3 February 2020
8 Information Bulletin Page 3
Page 143 Appendix A
Nestrans Communications Report 2 December 2019 – 31 January 2020
Nestrans Media Queries Date Media Query Response 08.01.2020 Evening Looking for more details Provided link to Park & Ride Express on Park & Ride figures monitoring report which was discussed at the December board meeting/
Nestrans News Releases Date Details
16.12.2019 Nestrans appoint new Director. 16.12.2019 Park & Ride figures on the increase. 07.01.2020 Promotion of the Dyce Travel Plan business breakfast.
Nestrans News Coverage
Date Media Details Article covers a motorcyclist accident following a collision at Toll Press and 06.12.2019 of Birness. References Nestrans study (FPASTS) which has Journal investigated options to improve safety for commuters. Article following Nestrans press release on increasing Park and 18.12.2019 AGCC Ride figures. Councillor Sandra Macdonald quoted. The article focuses on frustrations from the Why Stop at Ellon campaign following a response from the Transport Minister Press and 09.01.2020 which stated that the project must undergo a review as part of Journal the Strategic Transport Projects Review. The story mentions previous studies undertaken by Nestrans. Press and 16.01.2020 Article focuses on the upcoming A944 active travel consultation Journal Evening 20.01.2020 Express Grampian Articles promote A944 consultation and Placecheck link. They 20.01.2020 Online feature comments from Councillor Macdonald and Councillor 21.01.2020 AGCC Argyle. Press and 21.01.2020 Journal Russell Borthwick’s monthly column focuses on NE Transport The 21.01.2020 issues and the chamber’s views on what is needed in the Herald upcoming national and regional transport strategies.
8 Information Bulletin Page 4
Page 144 Agenda Item 9
NORTH EAST SCOTLAND TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP – 12 February 2020
9 Conferences and Presentations
Recent and Forthcoming Conferences of Interest to Nestrans
Conf Cost Nestrans Date Location Title Organiser (Excl. Attendees Vat)
Friday 31st Perth Low Emission ICE Scotland nil Nicola Laird January 2020 Zones Event Thursday 6th Glasgow CAPS delivery Cycling nil Kelly Wiltshire February 2020 forum Scotland Wednesday Woodhill Influencing NPF4 Scottish nil Kirsty Chalmers 12th February House Government 2020 and RTPI Scotland Wednesday Aberdeen Smarter Choices, Paths for All nil Kelly Wiltshire 19th February City Centre Smarter Places 2020 Networking Event Wednesday Jury’s Inn, Accessible Travel Disability nil Kirsty Chalmers 19th February Aberdeen Event Equality 2020 Scotland Tuesday 25th Aberdeen Climate Change for Scottish nil Kirsty Chalmers February 2020 Scotland Government Thursday 5th Chesters Moving Forward Aberdeen & £36 Rab Dickson March 2020 Hotel, with Investment in Grampian Aberdeen Connectivity Chamber of Commerce Tuesday 24th CFINE, An Evening with CILT, CIHT nil Rab Dickson, March 2020 Aberdeen Uber Nicky Laird Wednesday Glasgow Scottish Transport Transport tbc Yes, tbc 20th May 2020 Caledonian Applications and Scotland University Research Conference
9 Conferences & Presentations.docx Page 145 Other Training
Cost Date Location Title Organiser (excl. Attendees VAT)
Presentations by Nestrans Press Organisation Date Location Presentation Title Involve Presenters and Audience ment
16th January Marriott Nestrans/Getabout Business no Kelly Wiltshire 2020 Hotel, Dyce Breakfast for Businesses in Dyce taking part in Civitas Portis Travel Planning Study Tuesday 28th Aberdeen ACC and Nestrans’ Aberdeen Cycle no Councillor January 2020 aspirations for Forum Macdonald cycling
RD/04/02/20
9 Conferences & Presentations.docx Page 146 Agenda Item 10
NORTH EAST SCOTLAND TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP – 12 February 2020
10 Pending Business and Reports for Future Meetings
Purpose of Report
The purpose of this report is to advise of progress on pending business requested by the Board and major reports scheduled for forthcoming Board meetings, and to provide the opportunity for the Board to add to or amend this scheduling.
Background
It has been agreed that this be a standing item on the Board's agenda, listing progress on major areas of work which are not yet in final form to report to the Board with reasons for any delays explained, together with a provisional list of major reports for future Board meetings.
Pending Business
Reports highlighted previously as pending or which the Board has requested reports on, which are included in this agenda are:
o Financial Implications of Transport Act (covered under item 3.1); o Health & Transport Action Plan Update and Annual Report (item 6.1).
Major Reports for Future Meetings
It is intended to bring reports on the following items to future meetings of the Board:
o National Transport Strategy (verbal update will be given, report to next meeting); o Alex Hynes of ScotRail Alliance (invited to April meeting); o Draft Regional Transport Strategy 2040 (April); o Consideration of Delegated Powers (June); o Decarbonising railways in Scotland (due spring 2020).
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Board note the report on pending business and agree the provisional scheduling of major reports to future Board meetings.
RD/24 January 2020
1010 Pending Business.doc Page 147 This page is intentionally left blank
Page 148