Northamptonshire County Council NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD Walking, Cycling & Horse-Riding Assessment

NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 MAY 2019 CONFIDENTIAL County Council

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD Walking, Cycling & Horse-Riding Assessment

TYPE OF DOCUMENT (VERSION) CONFIDENTIAL

PROJECT NO. 70021598 OUR REF. NO. NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001

DATE: MAY 2019 Northamptonshire County Council

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD Walking, Cycling & Horse-Riding Assessment

WSP The Mailbox Level 2 100 Wharfside Street, Birmingham B1 1RT Phone: +44 121 352 4700

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Issue/revision First issue Revision 1 Revision 2 Revision 3

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Date 29/05/2019

Prepared by Matthew Stevens

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Checked by Jamie Wyllie

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Authorised by Andrew Palmer

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Project number 70021598

Report number NWRR-WSP- ENM-0000-RP- CH-00001

File reference Walking, Cycling & Horse-Riding Assessment.docx

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 May 2019 Northamptonshire County Council CONTENTS

1. SCHEME DESCRIPTION AND BACKGROUND 8

1.1. PURPOSE 8 1.2. PROCESS 8 1.3. BACKGROUND 8 1.4. PROPOSED HIGHWAY SCHEME 9 1.5. STUDY AREA 10

2. WALKING, CYCLING AND HORSE RIDING ASSESSMENT 13

2.1. REVIEW OF WALKING, CYCLING AND HORSE RIDING POLICIES AND STRATEGIES 13 NATIONAL POLICIES AND DOCUMENTS: 13 LOCAL POLICIES: 13 2.2. COLLISION DATA 15 2.3. PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES AND INTERCHANGE INFORMATION 18 2.4. TRIP GENERATORS 21 2.5. SITE VISIT 25 2.6. CONSULTATION WITH KEY STAKEHOLDERS 30 NCC NMU OFFICERS 30 BRAMPTON HEATH GOLF CENTRE 31 RELEVANT LAND OWNERS 31 RAMBLERS 31 CONSULATION WITH KEY STAKEHOLDERS SUMMARY 32 2.7. EXISTING PEDESTRIAN, CYCLIST AND EQUESTRIAN FACILITIES WITHIN THE LOCAL AREA 32 2.8. EXISTING PEDESTRIAN, CYCLIST AND EQUESTRIAN FACILITIES BEYOND SCHEME EXTENTS AND LINKS TO COUNTY/STRATEGIC NETWORKS 36 2.9. WALKING, CYCLING AND HORSE-RIDING SURVEY DATA 39

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD May 2019 Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 Page 6 of 50 Northamptonshire County Council CYCLE COUNTER ON NATIONAL CYCLE ROUTE 6 39 2.10. CONSULTATION WITH LOCAL USER GROUPS AND WIDER PUBLIC 40 IMPACT ON EXISTING WALKING, CYCLING AND EQUESTRIAN INFRASTRUCTURE 41 NMU FACILITIES AT NEW SANDY LANE / NWRR / A5199 JUNCTION 41 NMU FACILITIES ON NWRR 41 SAFETY CONCERNS 42 IMPACT ON RECREATIONAL SPACES 42 IMPACT TO NMUS ON THE WIDER ROAD NETWORK 42

3. USER OPPORTUNITIES 44

GENERAL OPPORTUNITIES 44 STRATEGIC OPPORTUNITIES 45 PEDESTRIAN SPECIFIC OPPORTUNITIES 45 CYCLE SPECIFIC OPPORTUNITIES 45 EQUESTRIAN SPECIFIC OPPORTUNITIES 45

4. NEXT STEPS 47

5. WALKING, CYCLING AND HORSE RIDING ASSESSMENT TEAM STATEMENT 48

APPENDICES

PERSONAL INJURY COLLISION DATA

NORTHAMPTON CYCLE MAPS

PROPOSED NMU ROUTE DIVERSIONS

NATONAL CYCLE ROUTE 6 CYCLE COUNTER DATA

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 May 2019 Northamptonshire County Council Page 7 of 50 1. SCHEME DESCRIPTION AND BACKGROUND

1.1. PURPOSE 1.1.1. This Assessment Report has been produced in accordance with the requirements set out in DMRB HD 42/17 Walking, Cycling and Horse-Riding Assessment and Review (WCHAR) to support the new North West Relief Road (NWRR) being proposed in Northampton. The scheme is proposed to enable and unlock further development of 6,600 houses and more than 3000 jobs in Northampton whilst also relieving pressure that already exists on the local highway network in northern Northampton and nearby villages that currently experience high volumes of traffic and associated disturbance. 1.1.2. The purpose of the report is to provide an assessment of the existing facilities and provision for pedestrians, cyclists and equestrians in the local area surrounding the proposed scheme which will help inform decision making regarding the provision of adequate and suitable pedestrian, cyclist and equestrian infrastructure in the proposed scheme and surrounding area throughout the design process. Where appropriate, opportunities for improvements have been identified with the intention that these should be considered through the design process, and re-visited during the HD 42 process through the production of the Review Report. 1.2. PROCESS 1.2.1. The designer providing improvements for this scheme is WSP. Sara Romero-Fernandez is the design team leader for the scheme and has appointed the following Lead Assessor to undertake the Walking, Cycling and Horse-Riding Assessment and Review process: Lead Assessor: Andy Palmer Associate, WSP UK Ltd 1.2.2. Andy Palmer’s skills and experience are aligned with the Lead Assessor Competencies set out in HD 42/17. Andy Palmer has determined the scheme to be a ‘large scheme’ in accordance with HD 42/17 and has appointed Matthew Stevens as an additional Assessor. 1.3. BACKGROUND 1.3.1. The proposed scheme is a new relief road in Northampton which will have a permanent impact on the local highway network, therefore the HD 42/17 Walking, Cycling and Horse Riding Assessment and Review applies. 1.3.2. The Lead Assessor has evaluated the scale of the scheme in accordance with DMRB HD42/17 and, for the purposes of this assessment, it is going to be assessed as a large scheme. Therefore, the scheme is subject to a Walking, Cycling and Horse-Riding Assessment (WCHA) during the options design stage followed by a Walking, Cycling and Horse Riding Review (WCHR) during the preliminary and detail design stages. 1.3.3. The need for a new orbital route around Northampton stems from the limited number of east-west crossings of the river valley to the north of the town. Options for a North-West Bypass had started being developed from 1988 but the extent of the built-up area has now limited the choice of possible routes.

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD May 2019 Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 Page 8 of 50 Northamptonshire County Council 1.3.4. As part of the development of the Joint Core Strategy, options for maximising the benefits of modal shift have been examined (effectively a do-minimum option) but even with unrealistic levels of modal shift assumed, it was assumed the high level of development proposed to the north of Northampton could not be accommodated without the construction of the Northampton NWRR. 1.4. PROPOSED HIGHWAY SCHEME 1.4.1. Scheme title: Northampton North-West Relief Road (NWRR). 1.4.2. The full route of the NWRR is approximately 2¼ miles in length with roundabout junctions at the A428, A5199 and intervening locations to access the Dallington Grange development. The part of the road subject to this assessment is the northern section of the NWRR which has a length of approximately 1 mile (see Figure 1-1 for clarification) and will be delivered by Northamptonshire County Council (NCC). The rest of the road is to be delivered by the developer of the Dallington Grange housing development site which will be located to the south-west of the section of the NWRR to be delivered by NCC.

Figure 1-1 - Full Orbital Route Schematic 1.4.3. The NWRR between the A428 Road and the A5199 Welford Road is necessary to enable and unlock the future development of 6,600 houses and more than 3000 jobs in Northampton. It is also required to help relieve the pressure that already exists on the local highway network in northern Northampton and nearby villages which currently suffer from high volumes of traffic and associated disturbance. The road will therefore improve the quality of life for existing residents and commuters and enhance the character of existing nearby villages by redirecting traffic and reducing local congestion.

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 May 2019 Northamptonshire County Council Page 9 of 50 1.4.4. In addition, the road will form part of a longer-term strategy to deliver a route from the A4500 near Junction 16 of the M1 and the A43 north of Northampton creating an orbital route option around Northampton. Again, this will likely improve the quality of life for existing residents and commuters as, once completed, less traffic should route through Northampton. 1.5. STUDY AREA 1.5.1. According to DMRB TD 42/17, the study area shall be no smaller than a 5km radius from a large scheme. Figure 1-2 below shows the study area that is within a 5km radius from the centre of the scheme. The area extents northwards to , eastwards to Moulton, southwards to Northampton and westwards to and it includes a 10km long stretch of the A508, a 3km long stretch of the A4500 and other local roads. 1.5.2. Other small villages that are located within the study area include Harlestone, , , , and Boughton.

Figure 1-2 - Study Area

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD May 2019 Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 Page 10 of 50 Northamptonshire County Council 1.5.3. A study of the Northamptonshire Public Right of Way Definitive Map1 has identified several Public Right of Ways (PRoWs) within the study area including public footpaths and public bridleways which link into a wider network of other PRoWs. In addition, Sustrans National Cycle Route 6 routes roughly parallel to the east of the proposed NWRR scheme. 1.5.4. In addition, it should be noted that many of the local highways that currently exist in the area surrounding the proposed scheme include pedestrian footways, particularly in the built up and residential areas. 1.5.5. Figure 1-3 shows the pedestrian footpath, cyclist and equestrian facilities located within the scheme area.

1 https://www3.northamptonshire.gov.uk/councilservices/northamptonshire-highways/rights-of-way/Pages/the- definitive-map.aspx

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 May 2019 Northamptonshire County Council Page 11 of 50 Figure 1-3 – Pedestrian Footpath, Cyclist and Equestrian facilities within the scheme area 1.5.6. There are several public highways within the study area, however the existing highway network where the proposed scheme has direct impact can be delimited to Sandy Lane and Northampton Road. To the south of the scheme the proposed relief road will tie in with a roundabout which will form part of the NWRR to be delivered by the developer of the Dallington Grange housing development site.

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD May 2019 Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 Page 12 of 50 Northamptonshire County Council 2. WALKING, CYCLING AND HORSE RIDING ASSESSMENT

2.1. REVIEW OF WALKING, CYCLING AND HORSE RIDING POLICIES AND STRATEGIES 2.1.1. The policies, strategies and documents which have been reviewed as part of this Assessment are shown below: NATIONAL POLICIES AND DOCUMENTS: - Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) o The DMRB Requirement and Advice Document HD 42/17: Walking, Cycling and Horse-Riding Assessment and Review (WCHAR) was used to understand the procedures required to undertake a WCHA and a WCHR, what compiling a WCHA and WCHR entails and how to structure them. Other volumes of the DMRB were consulted for guidance and advice regarding the design of highway infrastructure for Non-Motorised Users (NMUs), which includes pedestrians, cyclists and equestrians. - Sustrans – National Cycleway Network and Design Guidance o Sustrans have developed a range of up to date advice and guidance on the best ways to design and build routes for people to walk and cycle. These have been reviewed when assessing the existing walking and cycling infrastructure in the study area and when coming up with opportunities for new proposals. LOCAL POLICIES: - Northamptonshire Transportation Plan 2012: o The Northamptonshire Transportation Plan was adopted in April 2012 and sets out Northamptonshire’s proposed transport goals and priorities from April 2012 onwards. Some of the policies identified in the document are focused on promoting walking and cycling schemes and making walking and cycling more attractive. The plan states NCC’s aim (Strategic Policy 3) to ensure that all new developments are well connected to walking and cycling routes which connect to the existing transport network and NCC’s aim to generally improve the walking and cycling infrastructure across the County to make cycling and walking viable options for how people travel in Northamptonshire. Strategic Policy 12, which is focussed around improving road safety, specifies promoting walking and cycling schemes as one way in which to improve road safety in the County. Whereas, Strategic Policy 14, which is concerned about making different travel options more available to encourage a modal shift to more sustainable transport modes, states that NCC will work with partners to improve the walking, cycling and public transport infrastructure to make these options more available for people to use as travel methods in Northamptonshire. o In addition, Northamptonshire’s interim Transport Strategy for Growth (which was appended to The Northamptonshire Transportation Plan 2012) contained policies that states “walking audits or areas should be undertaken to identify current or potential desire lines…” (WA1) and that “the County Council will continue to improve provision

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 May 2019 Northamptonshire County Council Page 13 of 50 for walking and cycling in rural areas, particularly through the development of the Rights of Way network” (CY3). - Northamptonshire Arc: o The Northamptonshire Arc document is a locally developed spatial concept covering the whole county representing an integrated approach to economic development, the environment and connectivity. It is underpinned by the pursuit of three high level outcomes which are: § Transformed connectivity; § A naturally resilient and low carbon Northamptonshire; and § A stronger and greener economy. o The document highlights how making public transport and cycling more attractive and encouraging and incentivising low-carbon travel can help the County achieve the above three high level outcomes. - Joint Core Strategy Local Plan (Part 1): o The West Northamptonshire Joint Core Strategy sets out the long-term vision and objectives for the whole of the area covered by District, Northampton Borough and South Northamptonshire Councils for the plan period up to 2029, including strategic policies for steering and shaping development. It identifies specific locations for strategic new housing and employment and changes to transport infrastructure and other supporting community facilities, as well as defining areas where development will be limited. The plan highlights that traffic congestion must be addressed and new developments must be well connected to towns and services by a choice of different transport options, giving priority to public transport, walking and cycling. Policy S10 – Sustainable Development Principles states that “DEVELOPMENT WILL: BE LOCATED WHERE SERVICES AND FACILITIES CAN BE EASILY ACCESSED BY WALKING, CYCLING OR PUBLIC TRANSPORT”. However, the plan also recognises that “whilst walking and cycling will play an important role for shorter trips, road improvements will be required to connect new development into the network and also to relieve some existing congestion issues.” - Northamptonshire Cycling Strategy: o The overall aim of the Northamptonshire Cycling Strategy is to “Increase the number of people choosing to travel by cycle for trips under 5 miles through a combination of improvements to the on and off-road cycling environment, promotion and training”. - Northamptonshire Walking Strategy: o The overall aim of the Northamptonshire Walking Strategy is “to improve the pedestrian environment to encourage more people to walk for short utilities journeys and recreation to enable modal shift”. The Strategy aims to help deliver the objectives detailed in the Northamptonshire Transportation Plan (2012). For example, Walking Policy 7 states that NCC will seek to “provide attractive walking infrastructure that makes people feel safe and want to walk.”

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD May 2019 Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 Page 14 of 50 Northamptonshire County Council - Extension of the Northamptonshire Rights of Way Improvement Plan 2007-2011 to 2017: o This document is a revision and updated version of The Rights of Way Improvement Plan 2007-2011 which stated NCC’s desire to create a safe joined-up Public Rights of Way (PRoW) network. One way in which NCC proposed to create a safe joined up network in the Extension of the Northamptonshire Rights of Way Improvement Plan 2007-2011 to 2017 was to create better and safer road crossings; improve roadside verges to provide safer connections between paths and to consider railway crossing points with a view to diverting any right of way to minimise or eliminate the need to cross railway lines. Other core actions identified in the Extension of the Northamptonshire Rights of Way Improvement Plan 2007-2011 to 2017 include making access to the PRoW network easier for everyone; improving the signage on and to the PRoW network and improving the maintenance of Northamptonshire’s PRoW network. 2.2. COLLISION DATA 2.2.1. Personal Injury Collision (PIC) data has been obtained from Northamptonshire Highways (NH), covering the period 23/11/2015 to 15/07/2018 which is the data available for the latest 3 year period. 2.2.2. Damage-only collision data was also requested but was unfortunately unavailable.

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 May 2019 Northamptonshire County Council Page 15 of 50 2.2.3. Following discussions with NH’s Access Development Officer for Walking and Cycling, it was suggested to obtain PIC data for the area shown in Figure 2-1 below. NCC’s Principal Development Control Officer agreed that the area in Figure 2-1 was an appropriate collision analysis area so PIC data for the area shown in Figure 2-1 below was obtained from NH. See Appendix A for the PIC data obtained.

Figure 2-1 - Extent of Collision Analysis Area

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD May 2019 Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 Page 16 of 50 Northamptonshire County Council 2.2.4. A total of 18 PICs were recorded in the analysis area with Figure 2-2 showing exactly where they occurred and Table 2-1 providing a more detailed breakdown of the PICs that have occurred.

Figure 2-2 - Location of PICs

Table 2-1 – Summary of PIC Data

Severity Year Total: Slight Serious

2015 2 0 2

2016 5 1 6

2017 7 1 8

2018 2 0 2

Total: 16 2 18

2.2.5. Figure 2-2 shows that the Welford Road / Pitsford Road / Northampton Road / Harlestone Road priority give-way crossroad junction in Chapel Brampton is a collision hotspot with a total of 6 PICS occurring at the junction in the past three years. All six PICs were of slight severity and did not involve any NMUs. Further analysis of these PICs highlighted that the fast speeds of vehicles travelling through this junction and drivers not being able to navigate the junction properly (e.g. having visibility issues from the minor arms) were reoccurring contributory factors for the PICs that

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 May 2019 Northamptonshire County Council Page 17 of 50 occurred at this junction. Although no NMUs were involved in the recorded PICs, it should be noted that the concentration of collisions occurring at the junction may be deterring use of the area by cyclists, pedestrians and horse-riders and increased vehicle traffic through this junction may further deter its use by NMUs. 2.2.6. Further analysis of all the PIC data obtained revealed that only one out of the 18 PICs that have occurred in the analysis area involved a NMU. PIC WD117416 was a slight severity PIC collision which occurred in 2016 and involved a pedestrian being hit by a car. A more detailed analysis of this PIC revealed that it occurred at night time and in darkness (no street lighting) with the following reasons stated as contributory factors: “809. Pedestrian wearing dark clothing at night; 805. Dangerous action in carriageway (e.g. playing); and 802. Failed to look properly”. Although the description of the PIC suggests that it probably occurred due to the pedestrian’s actions, it should still be noted that limited pedestrian infrastructure exists at this location with only the north side of Northampton Road having a relatively narrow pavement. 2.3. PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES AND INTERCHANGE INFORMATION 2.3.1. There are public transport facilities located throughout the study area which include: § A Train Station (Northampton); § North Gate Bus Station; and § Numerous bus services which service Northampton Town and the villages located in the study area. Buses 2.3.2. Three bus services currently operate within the immediate area surrounding the proposed scheme, these being identified as: § 60 (Centrebus) § 61 (Centrebus) § 15 () 2.3.3. The 60 service that operates an approximate two hourly service in each direction, runs daily from 7:40am and 17:45pm Monday to Friday and from 8:58am and 17:55pm on Saturday, between Northampton and Welford. The 61 bus service from Coton to Northampton operates only on Thursday at 9.30am and 12.45pm. 2.3.4. Route 15 from Northampton to Moulton Park only runs certain journeys via Brampton Lane, these being 6.03am, 7.03am, 8.03am, 15.18pm, 16.20pm and 17.20pm. North Gate Bus Station 2.3.5. North Gate Bus Station is situated approximately 4.5 kilometres south east of the scheme and thus is within a reasonable cycling distance of the scheme. The station consists of 14 departure bays — 12 on its western side and 2 on its southern side — served from the main concourse building, which contains ticketing facilities, toilets, a café and shops. A further 9 bays for southbound journeys out of the town are located on the Drapery – to the south of the main concourse building. 2.3.6. Services are mainly operated by Stagecoach, with some services by Uno and other minor services by Centrebus, Country Lion and Meridian.

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD May 2019 Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 Page 18 of 50 Northamptonshire County Council 2.3.7. Stagecoach serves areas within the town and provides travel to outlying villages and towns within the county, making links to , Daventry, , and . Some of Stagecoach’s services also go as far afield as Bedford, Bicester, , , , Peterborough and Rugby. 2.3.8. Table 2-2 below provides details of the bus services that serve the North Gate Bus Station and the bays that are located on the Drapery:

Table 2-2 - Bus services that serve the North Gate Bus Station

Service Route Operator 1 Northampton Town Centre - Rectory Farm Stagecoach 2 Northampton Town Centre - Rectory Farm Stagecoach 3 Northampton Town Centre - Mereway Tesco Stagecoach 4 Northampton Town Centre - Holly Lodge Drive Stagecoach 5 Southfields - Weston Favell - Northampton Town Stagecoach Centre - St Giles Pk 7 Grange Park - Moulton Park Stagecoach 8 Northampton - Kings Heath Stagecoach 9 Northampton Town Centre - New - Town Stagecoach Centre 10 Northampton - Kettering Stagecoach 12 Northampton Town Centre - Brackmills Stagecoach 15 St Giles Park - Moulton Park Stagecoach 16 Northampton Town Centre - Ecton Brook Stagecoach 19 Boughton Green - UoN Waterside Uno 19 Violet - Boughton Green Halls Uno 21 Northampton Town Centre - Rectory Farm Uno 31 Northampton Town Centre - Kings Heath Britannia Bus 33 Northampton - Red Rose Travel 41 Northampton - Bedford Stagecoach 51 Northampton - Brackmills Stagecoach 53 Northampton - Brackmills Stagecoach 54 Northampton - Moulton Park Stagecoach 55 Northampton Town Centre - Pineham Stagecoach 58 Northampton - Moulton Park Stagecoach 60 Northampton - Welford Centrebus 87 Northampton - Stagecoach 88 Northampton - Silverstone Stagecoach 96 Northampton - Rugby Stagecoach X47 Northampton - Stagecoach

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 May 2019 Northamptonshire County Council Page 19 of 50 VH1 Wellingborough - Northampton Cogenhoe & Whiston Parish Council 9B Duston - Weston Favell Centre Stagecoach X4 Northampton - Peterborough Stagecoach X46 Northampton - Raunds Stagecoach 12A Northampton Town Centre - East Hunsbury Stagecoach X4 Northampton - Corby Stagecoach X6 Parklands - Milton Keynes Stagecoach X10 Northampton - Kettering Stagecoach X7 Northampton - Leicester Stagecoach 33A Central Milton Keynes - Northampton Red Rose Travel 9C Northampton Town Centre - New Duston Stagecoach 7A Grange Park - Moulton Village Stagecoach GTM Gayton / Tiffield - Towcester / Northampton Gayton & Tiffield Community Bus D1 Rugby - Northampton Stagecoach D3 Daventry - Northampton Stagecoach D2 Northampton - The Grange Stagecoach X89 Northampton - Towcester Britannia Bus 15A St Giles Park - Moulton Park Stagecoach 19A University Waterside - Boughton Green Hall Uno 9A Northampton Town Centre - Old Duston - Town Stagecoach Centre 9B Northampton Town Centre - Old Duston - Town Stagecoach Centre

Train 2.3.9. Northampton railway station is situated approximately 3.5 kilometres south east of the proposed scheme and thus is within a reasonable cycling distance from the proposed scheme. The station is served by West Midlands Trains with regular services southbound to and northbound to Birmingham New Street. Virgin Trains also run 2 services to London, one at 00:05 from Wolverhampton (to set down only) and one at 06:40 from Rugby. 2.3.10. In 2015, Northampton Train Station was redeveloped to include a new 2,500m2 (27,000sqft) station building nearly twice the size of the old one, a new 1,270 space multi-storey car park, new footbridge and platform canopies, new approach roads and associated junction improvements, as well as a 28,000m2 (300,000sqft) commercial development. The redeveloped station includes 85 cycle storage spaces (sheltered stands) which are in the long stay car park and blue badge parking bays area. The station also has a Cycle CoNNect (which is the name of Northampton’s cycle hire scheme) docking station located outside its main pedestrian entrance on Black Lion Hill.

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD May 2019 Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 Page 20 of 50 Northamptonshire County Council 2.4. TRIP GENERATORS 2.4.1. A variety of establishments have been identified as potential generators of pedestrian, cyclist and horse riding trips within the study area, including but not limited to the ones shown on Figure 2-3, Figure 2-4 and Figure 2-5 below.

Figure 2-3 - Trip Generators

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 May 2019 Northamptonshire County Council Page 21 of 50 Figure 2-4 - Trip Generators located to the north of the NWRR scheme

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD May 2019 Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 Page 22 of 50 Northamptonshire County Council Figure 2-5 - Trip Generators located to the south of the NWRR scheme

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 May 2019 Northamptonshire County Council Page 23 of 50 2.4.2. There are two equestrian facilities, two golf courses and an event venue very close to the proposed scheme which would lead people from the surrounding area to travel there. The locations of the two equestrian facilities (Brampton Stables and Boughton Mill Equestrian Centre) suggest that horse riding trips are likely to be undertaken along Sandy Lane to the west of the scheme and on Northampton Road just to the east of the scheme. 2.4.3. Northampton has many other facilities such as Schools and Colleges, the University of Northampton, industrial estates and recreational parks which are also cycling and walking trip generators. Future trip generators 2.4.4. The West Northamptonshire Joint Core Strategy (JCS) identifies a provision of 18,870 new homes to be built within Northampton Borough by 2029. The JCS identifies several Sustainable Urban Extensions (SUEs) on the edge of Northampton, some of which are within the study area. The SUEs that are located within the study area are identified below: - Policy N7 - Northampton Kings Heath SUE, also known as Dallington Grange, is located to the north of the existing Kings Heath housing development. In October 2018, Dallington Grange housing development was granted outline planning approval by Northampton Borough Council (NBC). The site is located to the south west of the proposed scheme and it will comprise up to 3,000 dwellings of mixed type and tenure including affordable housing; up to 7.23ha of land to accommodate B1 offices and light industry and B2 general industry; local centre to accommodate a food store (2,230m2), 6 shop units (750m2) for retail (Class A1), professional and financial services (Class A2), restaurant/cafe (Class A3), drinking establishment (Class A4) and hot food takeaway (Class A5); public house/restaurant; nursery (Class D1); 2 primary schools; secondary school; redevelopment of Grange Farm for cafe/restaurant/public house or hotel; extension of the North West Bypass on the site; and provision of open space and strategic landscaping and wildlife corridors. - Policy N8 – The Northampton North of Whitehills SUE forms a contiguous extension to the Northampton urban area northwards and is located within the . The SUE area is located directly to the east of the scheme and is bounded by Welford Road and Brampton Lane. Full planning permission was approved on 06/11/18 for up to 1050 dwellings (C3), B1 employment, residential care home (C2), park and ride facility of up to 500 spaces, local centre (A1/A2/A3/A5), primary school, public open space and associated highways and drainage infrastructure. - Policy N4 - The Northampton West Sustainable Urban Extension (SUE) is situated on the western side of Northampton. It adjoins the existing neighbourhoods of Duston and New Duston and, whilst it also adjoins the urban edge of Northampton, the SUE occurs within both Daventry District and South Northamptonshire. The Northampton West SUE allocates land for the provision of in the region of 2,550 dwellings, a primary school, a local centre to include local retail facilities of an appropriate scale, healthcare services and community facilities, necessary highway works including a financial contribution to the NWRR and the Corridor (A508); an integrated and sustainable transport network; structural greenspace and wildlife corridors, archaeological and ecological assessment and mitigation; sport and recreation provision; and flood risk management. On 30/11/2017 a planning

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD May 2019 Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 Page 24 of 50 Northamptonshire County Council application for construction of 52 dwellings including public open space, balancing pond and associated infrastructure (resubmission) was given full approval. Two outline planning permissions have been submitted for a substantial part of the remainder of the allocation. - Policy N9A - The proposed Northampton Norwood Farm/ Upton Lodge SUE is located on the western edge of Northampton’s urban area on land south of the Weedon Road. A planning application for up to 1,900 dwellings (use Class C3) POS and children’s play areas, landscape areas, new landscape planting & hydrological attenuation features & sustainable drainage systems. Primary school (Use Class D1) & mixed use local centre which may include residential, retail, health and community facilities. Demolition of any on site buildings & structures, & routing of Sandy Lane relief road and associated vehicular access points received full approval on 28/09/2016. 2.4.5. All these future developments are likely to alter existing walking, cycling and horse riding trip patterns in Northampton and generate additional walking, cycling and horse riding trips within the study area. 2.5. SITE VISIT 2.5.1. Three separate site visits were undertaken on Tuesday 22nd May 2018, Friday 14th September 2018 and Tuesday 2nd October 2018 by members of the audit team. 2.5.2. The site visits were undertaken between 10am to 12pm during daylight hours. On all three days the weather was dry and temperatures averaged around 15°C – conditions which are conducive to cycling, walking and horse riding. 2.5.3. A night time survey was not undertaken for the following reasons: § The current use of the bridleways and footpaths located in the immediate scheme area is likely to be mostly for leisure use and thus be confined to daylight hours; § Brampton Valley Way is unlit so it has been assumed that this would discourage many walkers, cyclists and horse-riders from using it outside of daylight hours; § Many walkers observed using the footways and bridleways were walking their dogs and, as most of these bridleways and footways are unlit, it has been assumed that the majority of dog walking occurs during daylight hours; § There is a nature reserve just to the north of Brampton Valley Way Parking Car Park on Brampton Lane which walkers use but, as it is unlit, it has been assumed that walkers mostly use it in the daytime; and § It has been assumed that the equestrian activities related to the two stables located near the proposed scheme (Broughton Mill Equestrian Centre and Brampton Stables) are currently confined to daylight hours due to safety reasons. 2.5.4. The site visits consisted of driving along Sandy Lane and Northampton Road in order to gain an understanding of the existing provision for pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders and vehicular traffic. The team then walked along an approximate 1.5km length of the Sustrans National Cycle Route 6 that runs parallel to the east of the proposed scheme and also walked other Public Rights of Way located within the vicinity of the scheme. 2.5.5. It was established on the site visits that there is no provision for walking, cycling and horse riding activities along Sandy Lane. A footway runs along the northern side of Northampton Road. Its width

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 May 2019 Northamptonshire County Council Page 25 of 50 varies between 1.5m to 1m and there is overgrown vegetation in some sections. There is no street lighting along this section of road (see Figure 2-6 and Figure 2-7).

Figure 2-6 - Northampton Road facing Northwards

Figure 2-7 - Northampton Road facing Southwards

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD May 2019 Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 Page 26 of 50 Northamptonshire County Council 2.5.6. It was also observed on the site visits that Sustrans National Cycle Route 6 is paved and has smooth gradients along the length explored. It was noted to be in very good condition and well signposted (see Figure 2-8 and Figure 2-9 below). A signal controlled crossing is provided on Northampton Road (see Figure 2-10 and Figure 2-11 below). During the site visit, it was noted that this was used both by cyclists and pedestrians.

Figure 2-8 - National Route 6 facing Southwards

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 May 2019 Northamptonshire County Council Page 27 of 50 Figure 2-9 - National Route 6 facing Northwards

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD May 2019 Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 Page 28 of 50 Northamptonshire County Council Figure 2-10 - Signalised Crossing on Northampton Road facing Northwards

Figure 2-11 - Signalised Crossing on Northampton Road facing Southwards

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 May 2019 Northamptonshire County Council Page 29 of 50 2.5.7. The Public footpaths located near the proposed scheme were explored on the site visits and it was found that HW44, HW45 and CC6 can be accessed from the A5199 and the west side of Kingsthorpe development. It was observed on the site visits that HW45 connects into HW44, which then ties in with Bridleway HW6 at Grange Farm. It was established on the site visits that these public footpaths are not paved and that they pass through grassed fields. 2.5.8. No evidence of horse riding was observed on most of the network visited on the site visits but some horse riding was observed to occur on Sandy Lane and on Northampton Road. However, it was noted on the site visits that no provision for equestrian crossings currently exist on either of these roads. 2.6. CONSULTATION WITH KEY STAKEHOLDERS 2.6.1. The following list of organisations and venues were identified as key stakeholders for the NWRR project: - NCC; - NH; - Sustrans; - Relevant Land Owners; - Brampton Heath Golf Centre; and - Ramblers Association. 2.6.2. The Lead Assessor has contacted representatives from all the key stakeholders identified above to understand any local issues pertinent to walking, cycling and horse-riding. The responses from the key stakeholders have been summarised below. NCC NMU OFFICERS 2.6.3. On Tuesday 2nd October 2018, the Lead Assessor met with the Definitive Map Officer and NCC Access Development Officer (Walking and Cycling) to discuss matters relating to walking, cycling and horse-riding on and around the scheme area. 2.6.4. During the meeting it was stated that it was not a certainty that the HW44 footpath diversion, suggested by the developer and required by Network Rail due to safety issues, would be approved. The NCC representatives stated their preference to divert the footway along the north of the railway line and connect it with the NWRR scheme and bridge. 2.6.5. In addition, the NCC representatives stated their preference for existing bridleways to be routed through an underpass to cross the NWRR as this would only require an engineering solution and there would be no need to apply for diversion which would likely avoid objections. 2.6.6. Also at the meeting, NCC representatives stated that a desirable minimum footway/cycleway width of 3m was required (2.5m absolute minimum) at the northern junction of NWRR and along the actual NWRR. NCC representatives requested that the shared cycleway/footway should be 3m wide (2.5m at the absolute minimum) and have a 1m wide verge.

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD May 2019 Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 Page 30 of 50 Northamptonshire County Council BRAMPTON HEATH GOLF CENTRE 2.6.7. On Tuesday 2nd October 2018 the Lead Assessor, the owner of the Brampton Heath Golf Centre and an independent Golf Net Advisor all met to discuss how activities on the golf course and NWRR would likely interact and how these interactions could be mitigated (e.g. how to stop vehicles, cyc- lists, pedestrians and horse riders from being hit by stray golf balls). Whilst walking around the golf course it was identified that holes no. 3 and 4 were most likely to be impacted by the scheme and Chris suggested that a couple of nets would be required on the 3rd hole, one of them close to the men’s tee (approx. chainage 1200) and another one a bit further on where there is a gap in the tree line (approx. chainage 1080). However, on further examination, it was established that the 4th hole is not critical and therefore no net would be required. This was established because of the hole’s lay- out in relation to the road alignment and the existing tree boundary in between. 2.6.8. The owner of the Brampton Heath Golf Centre stated that he was not keen on having the net so close to tee no. 3 and within the golf course boundary presenting the visual impact and associated maintenance costs as reasons why. The owner declared that they would prefer the net to be outside the golf course boundary however the independent Golf Net Advisor responded that locating the netting outside the golf course boundary would likely require higher, longer and more expensive netting. 2.6.9. Subsequent to the meeting on Tuesday 2nd October 2018, the independent Golf Net Advisor has recommended that a 20 metre high ball stop net on the boundary between the golf course and the road verge would be required if a lower net alongside the tees on the golf course cannot be installed. He cited that a similar situation occurred on the Manchester Airport Relief Road in Stockport. RELEVANT LAND OWNERS 2.6.10. On Tuesday 20th November 2018 the Lead Assessor attended a site meeting with the owner of the land adjacent to Welford Road which is required for the construction of the northern roundabout junction. The landowner requested a bespoke access off the roundabout but acknowledged that this could be tight. Otherwise the landowner stated their support of the proposals. RAMBLERS 2.6.11. On Thursday 24th January 2019 the Lead Assessor met with a representative of The Ramblers organisation in order to understand the Ramblers’ perspective on the NWRR scheme design and status of the scheme. The Ramblers are the largest walkers' rights organisation in Great Britain, and aims to represent the interests of walkers. It is a charity registered in and Wales and in Scotland, with around 123,000 members. 2.6.12. The Ramblers’ representative stated that they were involved in the Dallington Grange planning application review and is very knowledgeable about the rights of way in the scheme’s area. They stated that one of the Ramblers’ main concerns was to ensure that any Pegasus Crossing was kept separate from the Cycle or Walking Crossings for safety. SUSTRANS 2.6.13. Representatives of Sustrans were emailed on 20th May 2019 by the lead designer providing them with an update of proposed scheme’s development and current design and were asked to comment.

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 May 2019 Northamptonshire County Council Page 31 of 50 2.6.14. The representatives responded with the following comments: § Sustrans welcome the inclusion of a Toucan crossing on the Northampton Road arm of the proposed new Sandy Lane / NWRR / A5199 Roundabout Junction. § Sustrans would appreciate clarification regarding the need for a two-lane approach from Sandy Lane at the proposed new Sandy Lane / NWRR / A5199 Roundabout Junction. James raised the query that if traffic levels are high enough to require two lanes then is a higher level of crossing facility also not required (central Island or Toucan)? § Sustrans welcome the inclusion of a Toucan crossing on the new Causeway arm of the proposed new Brampton Lane / Welford Road / Northampton Road Roundabout Junction. § A 3m wide shared use path with a Toucan crossing of Brampton Lane should be provided to link the existing Brampton Valley Way car park to National Cycle Route 6. 2.6.15. Following the Sustrans representative’s response, the NCC Access Development Officer (Walking and Cycling) reiterated that a 3m wide shared use path with a Toucan crossing of Brampton Lane should be provided to link the existing Brampton Valley Way car park to National Cycle Route 6. CONSULATION WITH KEY STAKEHOLDERS SUMMARY 2.6.16. The above demonstrates that liaison with key stakeholders, including the relevant representatives for walking, cycling & horse-riding from all local authorities for which the highway scheme is within or extends across their boundaries, has been successfully undertaken during this WCHA (i.e. by liaising with the NCC NMU officers) with their thoughts, opinions and suggestions for the scheme captured and recorded. 2.6.17. It also demonstrates that liaison with other relevant key stakeholders, such as representatives of local businesses and cycling and walking organisations, has also been successfully undertaken with their thoughts, opinions and suggestions for the scheme captured and recorded and that attempts have also been made to contact a wide range of other key stakeholders. 2.7. EXISTING PEDESTRIAN, CYCLIST AND EQUESTRIAN FACILITIES WITHIN THE LOCAL AREA 2.7.1. The area around the scheme benefits from a good standard of pedestrian, cyclist and horse riding provision, with footpaths, bridleways and cycle routes offering connections to a wide range of facilities. 2.7.2. Figure 2-12 below shows pedestrian footpath, cyclist and equestrian facilities within the vicinity of the scheme area.

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD May 2019 Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 Page 32 of 50 Northamptonshire County Council A5199 Wider Public Footpath and Northampton Bridleway network Road CE17

A5199 Northampton CCC4C4 Road CC5

CC6 A5199 Welford Road

Wider Public Footpath and Bridleway network

HW45

HW6 HW44 HW6

HW44

HW6

Figure 2-12 – Pedestrian Footpath, Cyclist and Equestrian facilities within the scheme area Pedestrian Facilities 2.7.3. The proposed scheme routes between the proposed Dallington Grange development and Northampton Road to the north. Pedestrian facilities in the form of a 1.5m-1m wide footway are provided along the eastern and northern side of the A5199 (Welford Road and Northampton Road) routing up to Chapel Boughton Village. A controlled toucan crossing is provided at the junction between Northampton Road and Sustrans National Cycle Route 6. There is also a footway on the southern side of Brampton Lane routing all the way to the A508 / Vyse Road / Brampton Lane Roundabout past the Buckton Fields housing development. 2.7.4. There are a number of public footpaths located close to the scheme with the closest ones being: § HW44; § HW45;

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 May 2019 Northamptonshire County Council Page 33 of 50 § CC6; and § CC5. 2.7.5. Figure 2-12 above shows the locations of these public footpaths. 2.7.6. Public Footpath HW44 routes from the northern section of the proposed Dallington Grange development, across an uncontrolled level crossing over the railway line extending into residential properties in Kingsthorpe Village in a north-easterly alignment. The footpath forms part of a network comprising a significant number of footpaths to the north of Northampton. 2.7.7. In summary, the Public Footpath HW44 runs from Redland Drive in Kingsthorpe and routes approximately in a north western direction, before running in a south western direction once it meets HW45. The path crosses the Brampton Arm of the and the railway line at an at-grade crossing which effectively means that users of the path are not separated from rail traffic in order to cross the line. Once within the Dallington Grange development site, path HW44 forms a junction with Bridleway HW6, which runs from the junction of Mill Lane and Nene Way (south of Kings Heath) in broadly northern direction towards Dallington Heath, upon which it joins a further network of paths that eventually terminate adjacent to Harlestone Road. Footpath HW44 is predominantly laid to grass and does not feature any substantial areas of hard surfacing. Furthermore, the width of the path is particularly variable. 2.7.8. Public Footpath HW45 joins with Public Footpath HW44 just south west of National Cycle Route 6 and routes from this point north-eastwards to Welford Road in between some housing in Kingsthorpe Village. 2.7.9. Public Footpath CC6 is located to the north east of the scheme and connects Welford Road with Northampton Road via passing through farmland. This public footpath joins the southern side of Northampton Road and the footway along this road is located on the northern side. There are currently no crossing facilities provided across Northampton Road to link footpath CC6 to the footpath on the northern side of Northampton Road. 2.7.10. Public Footpath CC5 is also located to the north east of the scheme, routing northwards from the north of Northampton Road towards the Boughton Mill Equestrian Centre until it joins to Public Footpath CC4. 2.7.11. In addition, it should be noted that many of the local highways that currently exist in the area surrounding the proposed scheme include pedestrian footways, particularly in the built up and residential areas. Cyclist Facilities 2.7.12. National Cycle Route 6 is a dedicated off-road cycle route which is located approximately 250m to the east of the scheme routing north-south almost parallel with the scheme’s proposed route. The route is part of the (NCN) which is the national cycling route network of the , which was established to encourage cycling throughout Britain, as well as for the purposes of bicycle touring. The section of the route near the scheme is well signposted indicating a shared used for pedestrians and cyclists. 2.7.13. In addition to National Cycle Route 6, a designated shared-use footway/cycleway exists on the eastern side of the Welford Road routing all the way to Harborough Road through Kingsthorpe Village. A designated shared-use footway/cycleway also exists on the southern side of Brampton Lane routing all the way to the A508 / Vyse Road / Brampton Lane Roundabout past the newly built

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD May 2019 Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 Page 34 of 50 Northamptonshire County Council Buckton Fields housing development. These shared-use footways/cycleways provide cyclists with access and egress from the National Cycle Route 6 (Brampton Valley Way) close to the Brampton Lane / Welford Road / Northampton Road Junction. 2.7.14. Appendix B contains the Northampton Cycle Map which shows the cycle facilities across the whole of Northampton. 2.7.15. Norbital (route 539) is an 18 mile (29 km) circular cycle route around Northampton, which connects residential areas with areas of employment and education such as the University of Northampton, Brackmills and Moulton Park. The north-eastern section of the Norbital (route 539) crosses the section of the railway line that routes in between Kingsthorpe Village and Kings Heath via Mill Lane (which is approximately 1.5km south of the proposed scheme) and enables cyclists to join the Brampton Valley Way via a section of off-road path that that routes off Nene Way. Appendix B contains a map of Norbital and Other Key Northampton Cycle Routes. Equestrian Facilities 2.7.16. There are several bridleways, which horse riders as well as pedestrians and cyclists can use, within the vicinity of the scheme as shown in Figure 2-12 above. 2.7.17. HW6 is a bridleway running in a North-West/ South-East orientation along the southern boundary of the proposed NWRR scheme (the northern boundary of the proposed Dallington Grange scheme). From east to west Bridleway HW6 routes from Mill Lane in Kings Heath (south of the proposed scheme) in a north-westerly direction until it meets public footpath HW44. From here the bridleway routes approximately eastwards until it joins bridleway C26 and the wider footpath and bridleway network located to the north of Northampton (west of the proposed scheme). 2.7.18. Although it was observed on the site visit that horse riders use Northampton Road, it should be noted that that there is no current provision for equestrian crossings along Northampton Road. However, there is a sign which warns motorists about the presence of horse riders on Northampton Road. Diverted Pedestrian, Cyclist and Equestrian Facilities 2.7.19. The following existing pedestrian, cyclist and equestrian facilities are being diverted as part of the Dallington Grange Development proposal: § Public Footpath HW44; and § Public Bridleway HW6. 2.7.20. Details of the proposed diversions are shown in Appendix C and explained in more detail below. At the time of writing this WCHA, the masterplan which includes the diversion proposals have been granted outline planning approval. 2.7.21. The diversion of footpath HW44 is has been suggested primarily due to concerns over the increased use of the uncontrolled level crossing by pedestrians and cyclists routing to and from Dallington Grange. The diversion is proposed to route via the existing bridge where the railway line crosses the River Nene which is located approximately 500m south east of the NWRR scheme and 500m south- east of the existing uncontrolled level crossing. To do this the footpath would route southwards, just after the two existing river crossings, to route towards the existing railway bridge which would require the footpath to cross the river once more. Once the path has routed underneath the existing

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 May 2019 Northamptonshire County Council Page 35 of 50 railway bridge it is proposed that the path will route parallel to the railway line until reaches where the existing level crossing is. 2.7.22. The Dallington Grange development proposals include the closure of a section of bridleway HW6 in order to route it around the proposed southern NWRR roundabout junction and along the section of the NWRR which will route along the western boundary of Dallington Grange. A new shared cyclepath and separate grass route for horses is proposed along roughly the same alignment of the closed section of HW6 deviating slightly on its western extent (see Appendix C) and will join the western section of HW6 that will be unaffected by the Dallington Grange scheme. 2.8. EXISTING PEDESTRIAN, CYCLIST AND EQUESTRIAN FACILITIES BEYOND SCHEME EXTENTS AND LINKS TO COUNTY/STRATEGIC NETWORKS 2.8.1. The following pedestrian, cyclist and equestrian facilities located outside the immediate scheme extents but within the study area have been identified: Cycling Facilities 2.8.2. National Cycle Route 6, which is part of the NCN, routes parallel to the east of the scheme. It is 390 miles long and connects London to the Lake District. Some sections of National Cycle Route 6 in Cumbria are still being developed. 2.8.3. As stated in paragraph 2.7.15, Norbital (route 539) is an 18 mile (29 km) circular cycle route around Northampton, which connects residential areas with areas of employment and education such as the University of Northampton, Brackmills and Moulton Park. It is possible, and likely, that cyclists routing to and from Dallington Grange would use the Norbital (route 539) to access different areas of Northampton so it is worth considering if and how Dallington Grange and the NWRR could be connected to the Norbital (route 539). 2.8.4. The “Northampton Cycle Map” and “Norbital and Key Northampton Cycle Routes” maps in Appendix B show the cycling facilities that currently exist in the wider Northampton area highlighting suitable (and unsuitable) roads for cycling; locations of cycle lanes and cycle tracks, paths or bridleways with tarmac or stone all weather surface; amongst other things. Pedestrian Facilities 2.8.5. The Northamptonshire Public Right of Way Definitive Map2 demonstrates that there is an extensive network of designated public footpaths located to the north-west of Northampton linking the villages of Harlestone, Church Brampton, Chapel Brampton and Holdenby to one another and the outer edges of Northampton. In addition, there are designated public footpaths located to the north of Northampton routing to and through the villages of Boughton, Moulton and Pitsford.

2 http://maps.northamptonshire.gov.uk/#x=472968,y=268051,zoom=4,base=NCC,layers=Row|,search=,fade=fal se,mX=0,mY=0

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD May 2019 Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 Page 36 of 50 Northamptonshire County Council 2.8.6. There are no national trails but there are four long distance walking routes within the 5km study area including: § The Northamptonshire Round; § Brampton Valley Way; § ; and § Macmillan Way - Boston to Abbotsbury. 2.8.7. Figure 2-13 on page 33 shows the network of footpaths, bridleways and byways that currently exist in the wider scheme study area. 2.8.8. In addition, it should be noted that many of the local highways that currently exist in the wider Northampton area include pedestrian footways, particularly in the built up and residential areas. Equestrian Facilities 2.8.9. Figure 2-13 shows that there is an extensive bridleway network to the west and south of the proposed scheme providing access to and routing through Harlestone Firs, Harlestone and Kings Heath. In addition, a number of bridleways route through, between and from Chapel Brampton and Church Brampton and connect to bridleways further north and to the bridleway network that lead to Harlestone Firs and Harlestone. It should be noted that there are no bridleways located to the east of the scheme’s study area. In addition, it should be noted that no Pegasus crossings have been identified in the scheme’s study area.

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 May 2019 Northamptonshire County Council Page 37 of 50 Figure 2-13 - Footpaths, Bridleways and Byways beyond the proposed scheme’s extents

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD May 2019 Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 Page 38 of 50 Northamptonshire County Council 2.9. WALKING, CYCLING AND HORSE-RIDING SURVEY DATA 2.9.1. Some cycling survey data has been obtained and collected in the immediate area surrounding the proposed NWRR scheme, which is subject to this WCHA. This survey data will inform understanding of existing NMU desire lines, usage figures and usage patterns which will in turn inform the decisions on the types and locations of NMU facilities to be included as part of the scheme. 2.9.2. It should be noted that additional NMU surveys have been undertaken in the immediate area surrounding the proposed scheme which have collected a more detailed cycling data and data about walking and horse riding usage. However, this data has not been processed at the time of writing this WCHA. Once processed, the additional NMU survey data will be analysed and used to inform the future design of NMU facilities in the proposed scheme. 2.9.3. The following section summarises the analysis of the cycling survey data obtained in the immediate area surrounding the proposed NWRR scheme. CYCLE COUNTER ON SUSTRANS NATIONAL CYCLE ROUTE 6 2.9.4. A Sustrans cycle counter is located on the Sustrans National Cycle Route 6 just to the south of the Toucan crossing across the A5199 Northampton Road which links the National Cycle Route 6 with the Brampton Valley Way. The blue marker in Figure 2-14 below illustrates the location of this cycle counter.

Figure 2-14 - Location of the cycle counter on Sustrans National Cycle Route 6 2.9.5. The counter records the number of cyclists that cycle past the counter in both directions. On further inspection it was found that the counter went live at the beginning of 2008 and has continued recording up until February 2017 when it appears to have ceased working as from then the count is showing as zero. 2.9.6. Data was obtained for number of cyclists per day from 1st February 2016 to 31st January 2017 and the full set of data has been appended to this WCHA as Appendix D.

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 May 2019 Northamptonshire County Council Page 39 of 50 2.9.7. Analysis of the data revealed that, on average, 61 cyclists cycled past the counter per day between 1st February 2016 to 31st January 2017 with this number increasing to an average of 78 cyclists during the Daylight Saving Time (DST) period in 2016 (Sunday 27th March 2016 to Sunday 30th October 2016). 2.9.8. The data collected at this cycle counter indicates a relatively high cycle usage of the Sustrans National Cycle Route 6 suggesting that sufficient cyclist facilities need to be incorporated into the design of the new Brampton Lane / Northampton Road / Welford Road Roundabout as the cyclists recorded at this counter would have had to pass through, enter or exit on to the Brampton Lane / Northampton Road / Welford Road junction via the southern access to Sustrans National Cycle Route 6 on Northampton Road indicating that there will be a relatively high cycle usage of the new Brampton Lane / Northampton Road / Welford Road Roundabout which is part of the proposed scheme. 2.10. CONSULTATION WITH LOCAL USER GROUPS AND WIDER PUBLIC 2.10.1. A range of stakeholders have been consulted regarding the proposed NWRR. The list of stakeholders that were consulted have been detailed in Section 2.6 above; with a summary of the responses received that are relevant for this WCHA also provided. A written letter was sent to each of the stakeholders explaining the new relief road and encouraging them to provide their thoughts and opinion on the scheme which included how the scheme will affect pedestrians, cyclists and equestrians. 2.10.2. In addition to the written consultation undertaken, NCC conducted a seven week consultation period between Monday 19th June 2017 and Friday 4th August 2017 to consult on the NWRR and the proposed Northampton Northern Orbital Route (NNOR) road, which, if built, would join the NWRR and provide a complete ring road around the north of Northampton Town. During the 7 week consultation period, six consultation events (starting at 09:00 and finishing 19:00) were held in venues that were chosen due to their proximity to the NWRR and NNOR. These were: § Liburd Room, Kingsthorpe (Mon 3 July 2017); § Boughton Village Hall (Weds 5 July 2017); § Harlestone Village Institute (Thurs 6 July 2017); § Pastures Community Centre, Kingsthorpe (Sat 8 July 2017); § Moulton Community Centre (Fri 14 July 2017); and § Pitsford Village Hall (Sat 15 July 2017). 2.10.3. Attendees were encouraged to provide their feedback through a variety of different ways which included: § A Questionnaire – available online and in paper copies; § Encouraging a written response – via both email and post; § Accepting petitions and feedback from campaign groups; and § Recording verbal feedback at the events. 2.10.4. The feedback regarding specifically the NWRR proposals in terms of people’s thoughts and opinions about the likely impact on pedestrians, cyclists and horse-riders has been summarised below. The feedback received can be organised under the following themes: § Impact on existing NMU infrastructure; § NMU facilities at new Sandy Lane / NWRR / A5199 Junction;

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD May 2019 Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 Page 40 of 50 Northamptonshire County Council § NMU facilities on NWRR; § Safety concerns; § Impact on recreational spaces; and § Impact to NMUs on the wider road network. 2.10.5. Further details of the feedback received regarding each theme is provided below. IMPACT ON EXISTING WALKING, CYCLING AND EQUESTRIAN INFRASTRUCTURE 2.10.6. Concerns were raised that the NWRR would cause a loss of existing walking, cycling and equestrian infrastructure such as bridleways, horse paddocks, footpaths, and byways and concerns were raised about how this could impact businesses operating in the area (especially equestrian ones). It was requested that equestrian properties (paddocks and stables) within the area should be maintained and respected as best as possible. Suggested Opportunity 2.10.7. To use the existing roads that will be closed due to the NWRR as dedicated walking, cycling and equestrian routes. It was suggested that the roads that are due to be closed off should be retained as cycling and walking routes, signposting and maintaining them as such. NMU FACILITIES AT NEW SANDY LANE / NWRR / A5199 JUNCTION 2.10.8. Queries were raised in regard to how NMUs, particularly equestrian activities, would be accommodated at the new Northampton Road / Sandy Lane / A5199 / NWRR Roundabout Junction and the scheme’s impact to NMU’s usage of the A5199 / Brampton Lane junction to the east. Numerous respondents suggested providing sufficient NMU facilities at both these junctions, particularly to ensure access to and from the Brampton Valley Way. User Group Feedback 2.10.9. A representative from Northampton Cycling Touring Club (CTC) noted the high standard of the crossing of the Welford Road by the Windhover pub stating that the junction contained “no awkward- to-negotiate chicane at either end, [and] a single light to cross the whole road (and hence a single wait and no awkward chicane in the middle of the road) that has a reasonably fast response to the push of the button”. It was stated as preferable that the standard of this crossing for NMUs usage to remain with the NWRR in place. NMU FACILITIES ON NWRR 2.10.10. A range of different conflicting thoughts and opinions were expressed by respondents in regard to providing NMU facilities on the NWRR. 2.10.11. For instance, numerous respondents expressed their desire for the provision of dedicated online NMU facilities (such as cycle lanes) to be included on the NWRR whereas others stated a preference for offline NMU facilities, such as a path ideally separated from the road by a green verge, to make it pleasant to walk and cycle along. 2.10.12. Another example of conflicting views about the provision of NMU facilities on the NWRR was when it came to NMU crossing points on NWRR. Some respondents stated their preference to have numerous, good standard NMU crossing points on the NWRR whereas other respondents stated that no NMU crossing points should be provided on the NWRR because of their potential to restrict movement of vehicles and create backlogs of vehicle traffic.

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 May 2019 Northamptonshire County Council Page 41 of 50 2.10.13. Responses seemed to suggest that, on the whole, respondents wanted good NMU access to the NWRR and for NMUs to be able to easily and safely access recreational spaces, including the Brampton Valley Way, from the NWRR. SAFETY CONCERNS 2.10.14. During the consultation period, it was highlighted that there is relatively high equestrian usage on Sandy Lane and A5199 Northampton Road. Concerns were raised about the speed limit on A5199 and what impact increased traffic on the A5199 (due to vehicles accessing and egressing the NWRR) will have on the safety of NMUs, particularly horse riders accessing and egressing the horse yards that exist on this stretch of road. 2.10.15. Feedback was received regarding concerns about the speed limit of the NWRR and the dangers it posed for NMUs using the NWRR. 2.10.16. Provision of a good standard and safe access to Brampton Valley Way for NMUs was requested. Suggested Opportunity: 2.10.17. Implement reduced speed limits and / or other traffic calming measures on the roads at and around the Windhover Pub to make it safer for NMUs and enable safe NMU access to Brampton Valley Way. Feedback from the consultation revealed that horse riders, drivers, cyclists and walkers feel that the stretch of road outside Boughton Mill Equestrian Centre, passing by the entrance to Sandy Lane and up to the Spencer Arms is a very fast road. IMPACT ON RECREATIONAL SPACES 2.10.18. Throughout the consultation period concerns were raised about the NWRR causing reduced NMU access to spaces currently used for recreation including Brampton Valley Way, Harlestone Firs, Wilson Farm and other green open spaces. It was stated as preferable that NMU access to these areas were maintained and that, if possible, NMU access is provided to and from the existing fields to the land isolated by the alignment of the NWRR (the land that will be located between the NWRR and Welford Road). It was suggested that one way of maintaining good NMU access to recreational spaces would be to provide an adequate amount and standard of pedestrian crossings on the NWRR. 2.10.19. It was also queried how the NMUs crossing the railway along the track to Wilson Farm and Harlestone Firs will be facilitated. IMPACT TO NMUS ON THE WIDER ROAD NETWORK 2.10.20. During the consultation, it was brought to attention that the is frequently used by horse riders mainly between Boughton Mill Equestrian Centre and as far up to where the road leaves Chapel Brampton village near to Merrytom Lane with usage likely to increase. Concerns were raised about the impact that the additional traffic likely to route through the area with the NWRR in place could have on local livery yards such as Boughton Mill Equestrian Centre, Grange Livery, Brampton Stables and numerous livery yards situated along the Welford Road (by the Spencer Arms Pub). 2.10.21. It was also brought to attention that Boughton Mill Equestrian Centre (located just off the A5199) is an expanding competition centre looking to build up the number of events and activities held at the venue and that the number of horses and riders accessing the centre from the A5199 both on horseback and with horseboxes/trailers/cars is likely to increase in the future.

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD May 2019 Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 Page 42 of 50 Northamptonshire County Council User Group Feedback 2.10.22. A representative from Northampton CTC expressed concerns about the impact of additional traffic on cycling routes out of north Northampton, e.g. Welford or Harborough Road to A5199 Chapel Brampton and/or Sandy Lane Church Brampton (routes to Holdenby, , , etc). The representative highlighted that Northampton CTC start their organised rides in this area either on the Welford Road / Brampton Valley Way junction. Suggested Opportunity: 2.10.23. It was suggested that cycling conditions and infrastructure on roads where traffic will decrease as a result of the NWRR should be improved once the NWRR is in place.

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 May 2019 Northamptonshire County Council Page 43 of 50 3. USER OPPORTUNITIES

3.1.1. The opportunities highlighted below are considered to be relevant to the highway scheme and should be considered by the wider design team throughout the progression of the scheme design in addition to any further opportunities that may arise through the ongoing development of the design phase(s). GENERAL OPPORTUNITIES Opportunity 1 3.1.2. Provision of a better and safer NMU crossing of the railway line. This could be achieved by diverting PRoW path HW44 via the existing bridge where the River Nene crosses the railway line rather than using the existing level crossing. Opportunity 2 3.1.3. To reserve the use of the existing section of the A5199 Northampton Road that will be closed as part of the NWRR scheme for NMU use only and to make sure that it is appropriately signposted and maintained as such. Opportunity 3 3.1.4. Provide NMU access to the land in between the new NWRR and Welford Road so it can be used for recreational activities. Opportunity 4 3.1.5. Provide suitable and sufficient NMU access to the Brampton Valley Way from the proposed new Northampton Road / Welford Road / Brampton Lane Roundabout. This could be achieved by providing good quality toucan crossings located on pedestrian and cyclist desire lanes between the north and south access points to the Brampton Valley Way. Opportunity 5 3.1.6. Provide adequate street lighting along the NWRR and at the new Sandy Lane / Northampton Road / NWRR and Northampton Road / Welford Road / Brampton Lane roundabout junctions at the northern of end the NWRR. Opportunity 6 3.1.7. Provide a suitable crossing of Brampton Lane to the Windhover Public House. Opportunity 7 3.1.8. Providing a suitable access for cyclists and pedestrian to access the car park on Brampton Lane. Opportunity 8 3.1.9. Link the NMU facilities at the proposed new Northampton Road / Welford Road / Brampton Lane Roundabout to the shared-use cycle/footway on Brampton Lane.

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD May 2019 Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 Page 44 of 50 Northamptonshire County Council STRATEGIC OPPORTUNITIES Opportunity 9 3.1.10. Implement reduced speed limits and / or other traffic calming measures on the roads at and around the Windhover Pub to make it safer for NMUs and enable safe NMU access to Brampton Valley Way. Feedback from the consultation revealed that horse riders, drivers, cyclists and walkers feel that the stretch of Northampton and Welford Road outside Boughton Mill Equestrian Centre, passing by Sandy Lane and up to the Spencer Arms, is a very fast road and is therefore not attractive for NMU usage. PEDESTRIAN SPECIFIC OPPORTUNITIES Opportunity 10 3.1.11. Provide a separate pedestrian footway along the alignment of the NWRR. Opportunity 11 3.1.12. Consider providing footway/footpath links between Kingsthorpe Village and the NWRR if possible. CYCLE SPECIFIC OPPORTUNITIES Opportunity 12 3.1.13. The new Sandy Lane / Northampton Road / NWRR and Northampton Road / Welford Road / Brampton Lane roundabout junctions should be designed to accommodate cyclists. This could entail: § The provision of toucan crossings that will link any walking, cycling and equestrian facilities on the NWRR with the existing section of the A5199 Northampton Road that will be closed as part of the NWRR scheme and reserved for NMU use only. § Good signage in advance of any new junctions to warn drivers of the presence of cyclists which will hopefully slow down the traffic. § The designation of the pavement surrounding the proposed new roundabout junctions as shared- use for pedestrians and cyclists so that cyclists don’t have to navigate the roundabouts on road with other vehicles. Opportunity 13 3.1.14. Provide a separated cyclepath along the alignment of the NWRR with lamp columns and other street furniture to be removed from the cyclepath to ensure no obstacles for cyclists. Opportunity 14 3.1.15. Consider different ways in which Dallington Grange and the NWRR could be connected to the Norbital (route 539) for cyclist access. EQUESTRIAN SPECIFIC OPPORTUNITIES Opportunity 15 3.1.16. Consider incorporating equestrian crossing facilities at the new Sandy Lane / Northampton Road / NWRR and Northampton Road / Welford Road / Brampton Lane roundabout junctions.

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 May 2019 Northamptonshire County Council Page 45 of 50 Opportunity 16 3.1.17. Consider including an equestrian link along the extent of the NWRR.

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD May 2019 Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 Page 46 of 50 Northamptonshire County Council 4. NEXT STEPS

4.1.1. The material contained within this Assessment Report will be used to help the designer confirm engineering solutions with due regard for the needs of pedestrians, cyclists and equestrians. 4.1.2. The opportunities identified within this report will be reviewed as the scheme design progresses beyond the planning submission, alongside any new opportunities identified as a result of the developing scheme design. 4.1.3. A Walking, Cycling and Horse Riding Assessment Review Report (WCHR) will be completed as an ongoing review during the various design stages of the NWRR scheme and shall record the design decisions relating to the provision of Walking, Cycling and Horse-Riding Facilities for the scheme. 4.1.4. A preliminary design stage Walking, Cycling and Horse Riding Assessment Review Report will be provided to identify whether opportunities within this WCHA Report have been included at the preliminary design stage. If the opportunities identified have not been implemented, recommendations will be presented prior to the detailed design stage. 4.1.5. In addition, a detailed design stage Review Report will also be produced in order to identify whether opportunities within this WCHA Report have been included at the detailed design stage. Where identified opportunities have resulted in changes to the highway scheme design, the steps taken to implement the opportunities will be presented within the Review Report. Where opportunities have been identified but not implemented, the reasoning for this shall be recorded in the Review Report. This will encourage sharing of knowledge for future potential schemes in the area.

NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD WSP Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 May 2019 Northamptonshire County Council Page 47 of 50 5. WALKING, CYCLING AND HORSE RIDING ASSESSMENT TEAM STATEMENT

As Lead Assessor, I confirm that this Walking, Cycling & Horse-Riding Assessment Report has been compiled in accordance with DMRB HD 42/17 and thus contains the appropriate information for the wider design team. The Walking, Cycling & Horse-Riding Assessment was undertaken by the following Assessment and Review Team: Walking, Cycling & Horse-Riding Lead Assessor Andy Palmer Associate WSP UK Ltd. Signed:

Date: 29/05/2019

Walking, Cycling & Horse-Riding Assessor Matthew Stevens Senior Transport Planner WSP UK Ltd. Signed:

Date: 29/05/2019

As design team leader I confirm that the assessment has been undertaken at the appropriate stage of scheme development and that the wider design team has been involved in the process. I confirm that in my professional opinion the appointed Lead Assessor has the appropriate experience for the role making reference to the expected competencies contained in HD 42/17. Design team leader Sara Fernandez Romero Highway Engineer WSP UK Ltd. Signed:

Date: 29/05/2019

WSP NORTHAMPTON NORTH-WEST RELIEF ROAD May 2019 Project No.: 70021598 | Our Ref No.: NWRR-WSP-ENM-0000-RP-CH-00001 Page 48 of 50 Northamptonshire County Council