Decision details

The committee considered the report which set out the process for finalising the development and implementation of a lane rental scheme (LRS) for Cheshire East, noting that a final proposal would be considered by the committee prior to an application being made to the Secretary of State.

Councillor Janet Clowes addressed the committee as a visiting member. Cllr Clowes welcomed the report however highlighted her disappointment at the length of time it had taken for this to be progressed. Cllr Clowes stated that income generated from fines could be reinvested into the service and asked if officers had completed the national consultation on upgrading and refining the LRS, a consultation which closed in March 2024. Officers committed to providing a written response. 

The committee welcomed the report however queried the length of time it would take for a LRS to be developed. It was confirmed that the 7-month period would include both a full evaluation and consultation prior to submission to the Secretary of State. It was noted that implementation of the scheme to cycle lanes would be developed in line with national/DfT guidance which was not currently available. 

RESOLVED (unanimously):

That the Highways and Transport Committee agree delegation to the Director of Highways and Infrastructure to

1. Finalise development of a Lane Rental Scheme proposal.

2. Conduct consultation upon the proposed scheme; and

3. Present the proposed scheme (as developed following consultation) to the Highways and Transport Committee for approval prior to its application to the Secretary of State.