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Burgess Hill Place and Connectivity Programme Frequently Asked Questions Public Engagement May 2020 This list of frequently asked question has been prepared to help answer queries that may arise on the Place and Connectivity Programme. The list will be kept up to date as the Programme progresses. BACKGROUND What is the Place and Connectivity Programme? The Place and Connectivity Programme is a package of projects aimed at creating safe, direct and attractive walking and cycling routes and high- quality public spaces to encourage people to choose to walk, cycle and use public transport. The Programme is part of and is designed to support the planned development and population / travel demand growth resulting from the Burgess Hill Growth Programme . The Burgess Hill Growth Programme will deliver housing, jobs, infrastructure and social and community facilities to the town. By supporting the Growth Programme, this package of schemes will help to grow the local economy and create jobs by attracting over £1bn of inward investment. Why is the Place and Connectivity Programme being delivered? The existing network of paths, bridleways and roads do not meet the expectations of high-quality links able to provide safe and attractive routes to local facilities or simply an opportunity to relax and enjoy nature and greenspace. The objectives of the Programme are to: Create safe, direct and attractive routes to encourage walking, cycling and use of public transport; Enhance public transport interchanges such as stations and bus stops; Create high quality public spaces; and Provide a lasting impact on physical and mental wellbeing, social mobility and community cohesion. 1 | Page
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Page 1: BACKGROUND - West Sussex County Council - …€¦ · Web viewGreen Link Route 10 - connects Kings Way to the northeast, to Folders Lane to the southwest. There is an off-road section,

Burgess Hill Place and Connectivity ProgrammeFrequently Asked QuestionsPublic Engagement May 2020

This list of frequently asked question has been prepared to help answer queries that may arise on the Place and Connectivity Programme. The list will be kept up to date as the Programme progresses.

BACKGROUNDWhat is the Place and Connectivity Programme?The Place and Connectivity Programme is a package of projects aimed at creating safe, direct and attractive walking and cycling routes and high-quality public spaces to encourage people to choose to walk, cycle and use public transport. The Programme is part of and is designed to support the planned development and population / travel demand growth resulting from the Burgess Hill Growth Programme.The Burgess Hill Growth Programme will deliver housing, jobs, infrastructure and social and community facilities to the town. By supporting the Growth Programme, this package of schemes will help to grow the local economy and create jobs by attracting over £1bn of inward investment.Why is the Place and Connectivity Programme being delivered?The existing network of paths, bridleways and roads do not meet the expectations of high-quality links able to provide safe and attractive routes to local facilities or simply an opportunity to relax and enjoy nature and greenspace.The objectives of the Programme are to:

Create safe, direct and attractive routes to encourage walking, cycling and use of public transport;

Enhance public transport interchanges such as stations and bus stops;  Create high quality public spaces; and Provide a lasting impact on physical and mental wellbeing, social mobility and

community cohesion. When will the Programme be delivered?Projects within the Place and Connectivity Programme are at different stages of development and are phased for delivery over the lifetime of the Burgess Hill Growth Programme.The Programme is at Phase 1 which runs to 2021. Phase 2 is planned to run from 2021-2025 and Phase 3 from 2025-2031.What is being proposed?The Place and Connectivity Programme seeks to deliver accessibility and connectivity and public space improvements to:

Burgess Hill Railway Station area; Wivelsfield Railway Station area;

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Burgess Hill Place and Connectivity ProgrammeFrequently Asked QuestionsPublic Engagement May 2020

The Triangle Leisure Centre; Burgess Hill Town Centre – Church Road/ Church Walk; Victoria Business Park; Town Centre – Western Gateway; Burgess Hill to Haywards Heath Greenways; Townwide Green links to key destinations; Bus Infrastructure – improved bus stops with live information displays; Electric Vehicle Charging Points; Bike Share and cycle parking; Wayfinding to key destinations; Northern Arc Links (on and off site); and A2300 corridor - sustainable transport improvements

Who is delivering the Place and Connectivity Programme?The Place and Connectivity Programme is being delivered in partnership by Mid Sussex District Council and West Sussex County Council as part of the Burgess Hill Growth Programme.The Programme is being delivered with partner organisations to help deliver the Programme as quickly and efficiently as possible. These organisations include the Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership, Burgess Hill Town Council and Network Rail.What is the total cost of the scheme?The Place and Connectivity Programme (all phases) is currently estimated to cost around £25m.How is the Place and Connectivity Programme being funded?Funding secured to date for delivering the Programme is provided by central government (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government) through the Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership’s Local Growth Fund (£10.9m): developer contributions (£10.9m); and the Department for Transport’s Access for All Fund (£1m).The remaining funding required to deliver the Programme will be made by further developer contributions and funding opportunities.How does this scheme fit into the wider plans for Burgess Hill? The Place and Connectivity Programme will help to unlock significant improvements to Burgess Hill. It is part of a wider package of investment in local infrastructure that will help to attract over £1bn of inward investment into the wider area being delivered by the Burgess Hill Growth Programme that will facilitate the transformational change of the town through significant improvements in housing, jobs, infrastructure, social and community facilities.

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Burgess Hill Place and Connectivity ProgrammeFrequently Asked QuestionsPublic Engagement May 2020

How does the Northern Arc development relate to this scheme? Homes England is delivering the Northern Arc development and has obtained planning consent for approximately 3,500 new homes and new business space, together with new sports pitches, open space, primary and secondary schools, new neighbourhood centres and green infrastructure, in addition to key infrastructure that will bring improvements to the wider Burgess Hill area including delivery and financial contributions to sustainable transport improvements and the A2300 improvements scheme. Information on the Northern Arc is available at: https://burgesshill.net/housing/northern-arc

PUBLIC ENGAGEMENTWhat are you asking for feedback on through this public engagement?We are asking for feedback on the schemes that are outlined below with further detail on the schemes provided under the Projects section. The schemes are also summarised on a map on the Burgess Hill Growth Programme website www.burgesshill.net/transport/sustainable-transportWe are asking for feedback on:

Schemes where feedback will facilitate the detailed design of and the delivery of accessibility and connectivity and public space improvements for early delivery and over later phases of the Programme as follows:

o Burgess Hill Railway Station area;o Wivelsfield Railway Station area;o The Triangle Leisure Centre area;o Town Centre - Western Gateway;o Burgess Hill to Haywards Heath Greenways;o Townwide Green links (Phase 1);o Cycle parking (Phase 1); ando Bus infrastructure improvements (bus stops and real time passenger

information). Schemes are at a concept design stage where feedback will facilitate additional

design work with further public engagement ahead of delivery:o Burgess Hill Town Centre – Church Road/ Church Walk;o Victoria Business Park; ando Townwide Green Links (proposed later phase improvements)

Schemes that are part of the Programme that are not part of this public engagement exercise:

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Burgess Hill Place and Connectivity ProgrammeFrequently Asked QuestionsPublic Engagement May 2020

o Electric vehicle charging points;o Bike share scheme;o Townwide wayfinding scheme;o Northern Arc Links on and off-site improvements (consulted upon through

the Northern Arc planning application process);o A2300 corridor - sustainable transport improvements (consulted upon

through the A2300 corridor improvement scheme)Why are you asking for feedback?Whilst there is no statutory obligation to carry out such engagement, best practice indicates that it is helpful in refining designs and identifying opportunities given local knowledge. Why are you holding public engagement now and with Covid-19 restrictions in place?The Place and Connectivity Programme is at a stage where following public engagement, scheme delivery is possible in the very near future (see Construction Section). As the country comes out of Covid-19, it is vitally important we have projects such as these progressing, not only to support the growth of Burgess Hill, but also to support local economic activity and jobs.The public engagement process has been designed to comply with Government guidance on Covid-19 and to give all that are interested an opportunity to engage in the process – see the Community Involvement Plan for further details at www.burgesshill.net/transport/sustainable-transportWho can take part? Can I tell other people to take part?We welcome the opinions and feedback of anyone. Whether you travel by public transport, walk, drive, ride a horse or cycle, are a business owner or work in the area, or just travel through the area, your views, opinion and insight is valuable to us to shape the schemes. Please share the link www.burgesshill.net/transport/sustainable-transport with anyone you think would be interested in taking part.What engagement has already taken place? The development of the schemes within the Place and Connectivity Programme has been shaped a number of years and subject to extensive consultation.The Place and Connectivity Programme is delivering the aspirations identified in the Burgess Hill Town Wide Strategy and the Burgess Hill Neighbourhood Plan both of which have already received substantial public consultation and scrutiny. The proposals in the Town Wide Strategy and its supporting evidence base are included in the Mid Sussex District Plan, which has also received extensive public consultation and scrutiny.

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Burgess Hill Place and Connectivity ProgrammeFrequently Asked QuestionsPublic Engagement May 2020

Engagement with stakeholders has been integral from the start of the process of forming the Place and Connectivity Programme. This has included:

Working with the Burgess Hill Members’ Steering Group, a cross party group of elected Councillors and officers from Mid Sussex District Council, West Sussex County Council and Burgess Hill Town Council;

Stakeholder meetings and workshops, meetings and with specific groups or individuals where required;

Working with partner organisations such as Network Rail; Engaging with relevant neighbouring local and county authorities.

The Northern Arc development site, The Hub business park and the A2300 improvement scheme are all delivering significant amounts of on-site and off-site sustainable transport improvements as part of the Place and Connectivity Programme and were also subject to public consultation.When will the public engagement start and for how long?Public engagement is proposed to commence on 14th May for six-weeks until 25th June.How can I respond to the public engagement?Responses can be made online at www.burgesshill.net/transport/sustainable-transport via an online form, or by email to [email protected] or by writing to Place and Connectivity Programme, Mid Sussex District Council, Haywards Heath, RH16 1SS.Will my comments be considered, or have decisions already been made? What will you do with the results?Your comments will help inform current and future proposals and provide an opportunity to identify any issues that we are not aware of.Will you keep me updated on progress?Updates will be provided to those who have registered to follow the Programme via the online form or who specifically request this in writing or by email.

ProjectsWhat projects are you seeking feedback on?Information about projects in the Place and Connectivity Programme that we are seeking feedback on is available over the following pages. A summary of the what we are seeking views on is available under the Public Engagement Section. Project details are available online at www.burgesshill.net/transport/sustainable-transport.

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Burgess Hill Place and Connectivity ProgrammeFrequently Asked QuestionsPublic Engagement May 2020

Burgess Hill Railway Station areaBurgess Hill Railway Station area has been identified as a priority area given the critical role it plays as a gateway to the town. The station currently lacks high quality pedestrian and cycle links to the town centre and major employment areas.The proposals would provide a comprehensive link with the wider network of planned pedestrian and cycle improvements to facilitate safe and secure movement to and from the station with links to Keymer Road, Church Road and Station Road including a pedestrian and cycle crossings on Station Road achieved by upgrading the current signalised junction.The proposals would also seek to enhance the public realm by using better materials with opportunities to contribute to the local character and identity of Burgess Hill and facilitate a wider townwide wayfinding scheme.The proposals for the Burgess Hill Station Area are all contained within the existing public highway and have been developed with full regard to highway design standards and subject to road safety audits. The Burgess Hill Station Area Improvement scheme includes measures to:

Prioritise pedestrian and cyclist movements between Burgess Hill Railway Station and key local destinations;

Formalise the current taxi and passenger pick-up and drop-off area and provide footway widening to the front of the station area;

Widen the footway and reduce street furniture on the southern side of Station Road to provide safe, shared use pedestrian and cycle route to link with Church Road and extend through the length of Station Road;

Replace the current Station Road / Church Road mini-roundabout with a signal- controlled junction to provide safe and convenient links to Burgess Hill town centre while retaining highway capacity;

Provide raised table pedestrian and cycle crossings at key side road junctions including Queens Crescent and Station Road to provide safer crossings;

Widen the footway to the southern side of Station Road to deliver safe cycle links to Keymer Road including the provision of a toucan crossing on the Keymer Road;

Retain existing on-street parking capacity near business and retail units; and Ensure the scheme provides links to complementary improvements to the

proposed wider network of improvements (Townwide Green Links).Wivelsfield Railway Station areaThe Wivelsfield Railway Station area has been identified as a priority area given the increasing role the station provides as a local transport hub to key employment and residential areas including the Northern Arc. The station lacks high quality level access

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Burgess Hill Place and Connectivity ProgrammeFrequently Asked QuestionsPublic Engagement May 2020

and pedestrian and cycle links to the wider area and local character and identity. The proposals would provide high quality links to the wider proposed network of pedestrian and cycle improvements that would facilitate safe and secure movement to and from the station.The proposals would also seek to enhance the public realm through use of better materials, improved lighting and public art and develop opportunities to contribute to the local character and identity of the Wivelsfield area and facilitate a wider townwide wayfinding scheme.

The proposals for the Wivelsfield Station Area include improvements to access the station within the existing public highway together with public realm improvements and pedestrian / cycle links to the wider area over land adjacent to the station. The Wivelsfield Station Area Improvement scheme includes measures to:

Provide step free access to the north bound (west) platform and ticket office from street level via a lift installation;

Relocate and upgrade the current signalised crossing located to the west of the station to align with wider improvements to pedestrian and cycle links to the station area;

Provide additional safe and secure cycle storage: Formalise the pick-up / drop-off arrangements for the station; Formalise and improve pedestrian crossing provision between existing bus

stops; Provide raised table pedestrian and cycle crossings at the Gladstone Road side

road junction to provide safer crossings; Improve pedestrian links between the station and Junction Road; Improve lighting, repaint the bridge underside walls and install a painted public

art installation on the bridge wing walls adjacent to the east and west entrances;

Improve walking and cycling access from the south to link with existing traffic free route between Junction Road and St. Wilfrid’s Road;

Provide options to access a future car park and additional station facilities such as more cycle parking to the north of Leylands Road to support the growth in station users.

The Triangle Leisure CentreThe scheme was selected as a priority area for improvement because of the importance of the site as both a leisure facility (attracting some 820,000 visits per year) and as a through-route for residents and because facilities at and around the site underperform for those wishing to travel to the site on foot, bike or by public transport. The level of activity at the Triangle Leisure Centre is also predicted to grow

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Burgess Hill Place and Connectivity ProgrammeFrequently Asked QuestionsPublic Engagement May 2020

significantly due to the continuing popularity of the facility and increased demand from local housing and employment growth. The proposals seek to enhance public spaces at the Leisure Centre and improve access to and across the site from the adjacent areas. The Scheme includes measures to:

Prioritise pedestrian and cyclist movements to and across the site; Relocate the bus stop to the main entrance area and to install live bus

timetables inside the centre to help encourage use; Create significantly more covered and secure cycle parking facilities; Improve the route between Sussex Way and the Leisure Centre including

wayfinding; Install a shared use walking/cycling path on the western side of Sussex Way

(nearest to the Centre). This will complement a shared use path being delivered on the eastern side of Sussex Way by the Northern Arc development;

Install new crossing facilities along Sussex Way; Improve the street scene along Sussex Way including the planting of trees and

widening of verges and narrow the road carriageway to encourage lower traffic speeds.

Tie the scheme in with links and crossings coming forward through the Northern Arc development and the Townwide Green Links schemes.

The scheme will be delivered in phases. The design of the scheme considers proposals to expand the car park and increase artificial sports pitch provision at the site to cater for increased demand.Victoria Business ParkThe Victoria Business Park has been identified as a priority for improvement because it is a major employment area in Burgess Hill. The proposals have been developed to create better links within the business park itself and to / from adjacent areas and to enhance links to existing and proposed cycle facilities including the Western Gateway, Burgess Hill Town Centre and the ‘Green Circle’ route running roughly parallel to the A273.The concept proposals would predominantly be contained within the public highway and are designed to reflect current West Sussex County Council cycle design guidance. However, there are a number of areas where it may be necessary to investigate options for the use of third-party land for the delivery of specific elements of the proposals after the public engagement.The proposals are currently at the concept stage and will be developed further following this public engagement to prepare preliminary and detailed design for

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Burgess Hill Place and Connectivity ProgrammeFrequently Asked QuestionsPublic Engagement May 2020

further public engagement and delivery in subsequent stages of the Place and Connectivity Programme. The proposals would:

Improve and widen of existing links, including existing Public Rights of Way to provide shared use pedestrian and cycle links into the Business Park from adjacent land uses;

Widen existing footways adjacent to key routes within the Business Park to provide shared use pedestrian and cycle routes;

Provide dropped kerb and cycle infrastructure for safe, continuous movement across side road junctions;

Improve links and crossings to the London Road and A273 Jane Murray Way to provide connectivity to the wider area including the Green Circle, Burgess Hill town centre and Railway Station and Townwide Green Links.

Enhance the accessibility to bus stops of employees of the business park and for residents in the surrounding area.

The concept proposals would seek to minimise the impact on the existing parking provision within the Business Park. However, there are likely to be some areas where some restrictions would need to be considered to ensure the safety of pedestrian and cycle users. These would be investigated through subsequent design.Town Centre - Western GatewayThe Western Gateway has been identified as a priority area as it functions as a key link between proposed improvements to town centre and west of the town centre, Burgess Hill railway station together with links to the north from the emerging Northern Arc pedestrian and cycle improvements.The proposals seek to enhance pedestrian and cycle access through this key transport corridor. These are contained within the existing public highway and have been developed with full regard to highway design standards and subject to road safety audits and would provide:

Widened pedestrian refuge points at the London Road junction to improve crossing provision for pedestrians and cyclists;

A widened northern footway on Queen Elizabeth Avenue to provide a shared use pedestrian / cycle route providing continuity with routes proposed on London Road and links west to the Victoria Business Park and beyond;

Raised table pedestrian and cycle crossings at key side road junctions including School Close and The Brow to provide safer crossings;

Replacement of the existing Queen Elizabeth Way / Civic Way / Station Road roundabout with a 4-arm signalised junction with Toucan Crossings managing the flow of traffic through the junction and providing pedestrian / cycle priority while retaining highway capacity;

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Burgess Hill Place and Connectivity ProgrammeFrequently Asked QuestionsPublic Engagement May 2020

Comprehensive links to complementary improvements to the wider network and tie in with improvements proposed through the Northern Arc and Town Centre Regeneration.

Burgess Hill Town Centre – Church Road/ Church WalkBurgess Hill Town Centre, specifically the Church Road and Church Walk corridor, are identified as a priority are for public realm and connectivity improvements to support the growth of the town and encourage people to shop locally and to complement the current town centre regeneration proposals.The Church Walk and Church Road corridor is a part road / part pedestrianised street forming the main spine through the town centre providing a gateway route into the town centre from the railway station with views to St John’s Church visible along the entire length of the route. However, the area currently suffers from visual clutter and a relatively poor public realm, which is dominated by vehicular use on Church Road.The concept proposals seek to upgrade the public spaces along the route and to enhance and bring together the various distinctive character areas. Any proposals would also need to be reflective of the emerging New River Retail proposals for the regeneration of Burgess Hill Town Centre, focussed on the area to the west of the Church Walk corridor.The proposals are currently at the concept stage and will be developed further following this public engagement to prepare preliminary and detailed design for further public engagement and delivery in subsequent stages of the Place and Connectivity Programme. The proposals would provide:

A series of usable, inclusive urban spaces to cater for a wide range of user groups being mindful of physical, mental and learning disabilities;;

Opportunities to promote urban greening where possible by introducing sustainable species of planting to create a town centre which encourages biodiversity and habitat creation;

Create a unique space which complements surrounding developments and embraces Burgess Hill’s history and attracts footfall within the Church Walk / Church Road area;

Improve and provide clear, safe junctions, crossing points and connectivity with the wider area;

Ensure the scheme provides comprehensive links to complementary improvements to the wider network and tie in with improvements proposed through the Burgess Hill Railway Station, Station Road, Northern Arc and Town Centre Regeneration.

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Burgess Hill Place and Connectivity ProgrammeFrequently Asked QuestionsPublic Engagement May 2020

Burgess Hill to Haywards Heath GreenwaysThe scheme was selected as a priority for improvement because the roads that link Burgess Hill and Haywards Heath provide a poor and potentially dangerous environment for walking and cycling. At present, there is no easy or safe way to walk or cycle between the towns despite the short distances involved.Achieving Greenways between the towns will provide a safer and more pleasant means of travelling between the two and will be designed to be accessible to all users whatever their ability to enable all to enjoy the natural environment.The scheme seeks to achieve a network of routes capable of use by walkers and cyclists and where appropriate by horse-riders that are resilient to the weather and connect to existing and proposed infrastructure. The Greenways are proposed on both sides of the Brighton mainline railway and to be delivered within current highway boundaries and along the routes of existing public rights of ways.The achievement of improved links is a shared ambition of the District and Town Councils in their respective adopted or made development plans.East Greenway RouteThe Eastern Greenway route links Wivelsfield Station, the Northern Arc strategic housing development (via a proposed green circle extension and a green superhighway) and the east of Burgess Hill to Fox Hill (Haywards Heath).Due to the nature and location of the route, and the likely level of use it will receive, a shared use path is proposed with a 3-metre minimum width and an appropriate sealed surface. The Scheme includes measures to:

Improve the public footpath to accommodate shared walking and cycling use between Valebridge Road and Maple Drive (where it will compliment and tie in with Northern Arc development improvements between Freeks Farm and Wivelsfield Station);

Provide a shared use walking and cycling path along Valebridge Road and introduce traffic calming measures/ extend the 30 mph speed limit and provide a new crossing facility to tie in with Theobalds Road (note this element of the scheme will be delivered in a later phase and will be subject to further public engagement);

Improve Theobalds Road (optional only) to expose full width and reinforce low speed environment; improve existing drainage ditches and provide additional refuge points (note this element of the scheme is optional and if appropriate, would be delivered in a later phase and subject to further discussions with residents);

Widen the bridleway where this leaves Theobalds Road into available verge or edge where needed to achieve a 3m minimum width raised path (around 20-

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30cm in height) with suitable drainage features with an appropriate sealed surface and wayfinding;

Replace existing bridleway bridges along the route for use elsewhere with 4-metre wide bridges;

Install raised boardwalk features on sunken sections of bridleway prone to flooding;

Link with existing walking and cycling infrastructure along the A272 Haywards Heath Relief Road, A272 Rocky Lane and beyond in Haywards Heath via the B2112 Fox Hill. This includes options for a fully segregated or shared use walking and cycling path along Fox Hill alongside a potential alternative route via Hurstwood Lane/ Hurst Farm (note this element of the scheme will be delivered in a later phase and will be subject to further public engagement).

The Eastern Greenway scheme will be delivered in phases. Whilst there are some optional opportunities to improve the off-road section of the route utilising adjacent land, there is no requirement for private land and no properties are at risk.West Greenway RouteThe Western Greenway route links Wivelsfield Station, Leylands Road, Maple Drive and the Northern Arc strategic housing development to Isaac’s Lane via Freeks Lane along an upgraded existing public footpath.The proposed route currently terminates just north of the Northern Arc development (south of Holmbush Cottages) as a landowner is unwilling to allow further public right of way access northwards towards Haywards Heath across the Heaselands Estate.Due to the nature and location of the route, and the likely level of future use it will receive including by developments adjacent to the route and a proposed secondary school, a shared use path of 4-metre to 5-metre width is proposed with a 3-metre minimum width. It is proposed to upgrade most of the route to a public bridleway. The Scheme includes measures to:

Provide a new crossing facility on Maple Drive to tie in with Freeks Lane (note this element of the scheme will be delivered in a later phase and will be subject to further public engagement);

Repair and improve Freeks Lane for walkers, cyclists and future equestrian use to compliment proposed Northern Arc development improvements (note sections of Freeks Lane are likely to be delivered in a later phase and will be subject to further public engagement);

Clear and widen the route at and north of Lowlands Farm where required to achieve a 4-metre to 5-metre width shared use path with a 3-metre minimum width. Construct a new raised path (around 20-30cm in height) with suitable drainage features with an appropriate sealed surface and wayfinding;

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Burgess Hill Place and Connectivity ProgrammeFrequently Asked QuestionsPublic Engagement May 2020

Install raised boardwalk features on sunken sections of route prone to flooding; Replace an existing bridleway bridge for use elsewhere with a 4-metre wide

bridge; Ramp steep sections to ensure a suitable gradient is maintained; Tie in the upgraded route into the track south of Holmbush Cottages (note this

track has no public access away from the public right of way); Improve surface of existing public footpath from track to Issacs Lane (note this

short section of the route is not currently proposed for widening or upgrading to a bridleway);

The Western Greenway scheme will be delivered in phases. There is no requirement for private land and no properties are at risk.The proposed onward northward route across the Heaselands Estate to link with existing walking and cycling infrastructure in Haywards Heath along the A272 Traunstein Way, the A272 Rocky Lane and beyond; and to link the route a bridleway that links the A273 Issacs Lane with the B2036 Cuckfield Road, remain aspirations of the Western Greenway scheme.Townwide Green links (Phase 1)The Townwide Green Links are a combination of on and off-highway walking and cycling improvements that will link key locations in the town together.The Green Links will tie in with existing infrastructure and infrastructure proposed to be delivered through the Place and Connectivity Programme including off-site improvements being delivered by the Northern Arc development.The proposals are grouped according to the strategic value and the complexity of the link into:

Phase 1 links for delivery following this public engagement; and Links for delivery at a later phase (termed as Phase 2 improvements). These

will be subject to further public engagement before these are delivered but helped shaped by this public engagement exercise.

The Phase 1 Green Links proposed for early improvement are:

Green CircleA 4.3km section of the Green Circle between Keymer Road and Gatehouse Lane has been specifically targeted for significant improvement given the strategic importance of this section of the Green Circle as a key east to west link, because it joins some of the town’s key employment, leisure and retail areas together and likely levels of future use.

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This includes measures to: Widen the route to achieve a 4-metre width shared use path with a 3-metre

minimum width raised path (around 20-30cm in height) with suitable drainage features with an appropriate sealed surface and wayfinding;

Replace an existing bridge on Pangdean Lane (bridleway) with at least a 3-metre-wide bridge;

Removal of barriers to provide accessible facilities to all (whilst blocking inappropriate use where required);

Improve crossing facilities along the route with uncontrolled crossing points at Malthouse Lane, Oak Hall Park and across the A273 Jane Murray Way; and controlled crossing points at the A273 Jane Murray Way at Malthouse Lane (proposed zebra crossing) and across the A273 London Road (proposed pedestrian/cyclist/ equestrian user crossing). These crossings will compliment schemes proposed at the A273 Jane Murray Way at Gatehouse Lane being delivered as part of The Hub employment site development and proposals coming forward as part of the Victoria Business Park scheme;

Improve shared walking and cycling facilities along the A273 London Road; Install gateway features at Gatehouse Lane and Malthouse Lane with

opportunities for place making such as benches, wildlife enhancements and features (note some of these elements of the scheme are likely to be delivered in a later phase);

Tie the scheme in with links and crossing coming forward through the Victoria Business Park and Townwide Green Links schemes and proposed Hassocks to Burgess Hill walking and cycle link.

The Green Circle Improvement scheme is likely to be delivered in phases. There is no requirement for the acquirement of private land and no properties are at risk.Green Link Route 1 - an east to west link connecting London Road to the east and Sussex Way to the west. It comprises a 390m traffic free section along an existing footpath through West End Farm Recreation Ground. It is bounded by two on-road sections along quiet residential streetsGreen Link Route 2 - connects to Route 1 to the north, passing in front of the West End Farm Pavilion, to Dunstall Avenue to the south. It is predominantly on open green space, owned by MSDC, with a short on-road section on Cissbury Road which is a quiet residential street.Green Link Route 3 - a short link connecting Maple Drive to the south to Merchants Way to the north.Green Link Route 4 - connects Malthouse Lane to the north to Poveys Close to the south, and Royal George Road to the east via West Park Nature Reserve. Continuing

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Burgess Hill Place and Connectivity ProgrammeFrequently Asked QuestionsPublic Engagement May 2020

this route along Poveys Close allows connectivity to Southway Junior School and Southway Recreation Ground. The path is currently unsurfaced in places with drainage issues.Green Link Route 5 - an off-road link through Fairfield Recreation Ground, connecting Royal George Road to the south west, to Fairfield Road to the west. Some of the existing paths are cracked and narrow, and there are drainage issues in some areas. Green Link Route 6 - connects Leylands Road to the north to Park Road to the south, where a Northern Arc off-site route is proposed. There is a short east to west section linking to Highlands Drive to the east. It is predominantly off-road, passing through Marle Place Recreation Ground and Marle Place Further Education Centre, with a short on-road section on Upper St Johns Road.Green Link Route 7 - runs adjacent to the Brighton main railway line. It is predominantly off-road with an on-road residential link to the south. It connects Burgess Hill station and Station Road to the north and Pinehurst and Oak Hall Park to the south and will link into proposals being brought forward by the Burgess Hill Railway Station area scheme. Route 7 continues on-road along the already calm Oak Hall Park to connect with the improved Burgess Hill Green Circle route to the south and beyond to the proposed Hassocks to Burgess Hill walking and cycling link.Green Link Route 8 - connects Potters Lane to the west to Chanctonbury Road to the east. It is predominantly off-road, along an existing path through Holmesdale Woods, with a short on-road section along Woodcrest Road.Green Link Route 9 - is a short link connecting Wingle Tye Road and Nightingale Lane, a residential area to the north, to the improved Green Circle to the south. There is an existing unbound path through Nightingale Meadows which is often waterlogged with drainage issues.Green Link Route 10 - connects Kings Way to the northeast, to Folders Lane to the southwest. There is an off-road section, an existing path through The Holt Park, which is bounded by two on-road sections; The Holt and Birchwood Grove Road. The route passes north of the Birchwood Grove Primary School.Green Link Route 11 - is series of existing footpaths at the eastern extent of the town, some of which form part of the Green Circle. It connects Manor Road to the north, Cants Lane to the west, and Kings Way to the south.These links will be improved by:

Provision of shared walking and cycling paths where possible, typically 3-metre in width;

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Page 16: BACKGROUND - West Sussex County Council - …€¦ · Web viewGreen Link Route 10 - connects Kings Way to the northeast, to Folders Lane to the southwest. There is an off-road section,

Burgess Hill Place and Connectivity ProgrammeFrequently Asked QuestionsPublic Engagement May 2020

Resurfacing (or surfacing) where required with appropriate surfacing; Removal of barriers to provide accessible facilities to all (whilst blocking

inappropriate use where required); Cycle symbol markings where routes are on road carriageway (all on road

routes for early improvement deemed quiet routes); Dropped kerbs and improved highway crossing points; Wayfinding (as part of the Townwide Wayfinding Scheme); Opportunities for place making such as benches, wildlife enhancements;

features (note these elements of the scheme are likely to be delivered in a later phase).

The early improvement schemes require no changes to on-street parking and will not impact any bus routes.Cycle Parking (Phase 1)Improved cycle parking is proposed for early delivery. The identified locations are outside of the priority locations such as Triangle Leisure Centre that will be delivering improved cycle parking provision as part of these schemes. The proposed locations are at:

Burgess Hill Football Club; Worlds End Recreation Ground; St. John’s Park; Sidney West Recreation Ground; Fairfield Recreation Ground; and West End Farm Recreation Ground

Further locations for provision will be shaped by public engagement.Bus infrastructure improvements (bus stops and real time passenger information)Improvements are proposed to key bus stops throughout Burgess Hill to include improved passenger waiting facilities and provision of additional Real Time Passenger Information (RTPI) screens to support service improvements to be delivered via the Northern Arc.The current proposals identify 26 existing bus stops with higher levels of passenger patronage and would support improvements and installation of RTPI.Further locations for provision will be shaped by public engagement.

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Page 17: BACKGROUND - West Sussex County Council - …€¦ · Web viewGreen Link Route 10 - connects Kings Way to the northeast, to Folders Lane to the southwest. There is an off-road section,

Burgess Hill Place and Connectivity ProgrammeFrequently Asked QuestionsPublic Engagement May 2020

ConstructionWhat about Covid-19?The Place and Connectivity Programme is at a stage where following public engagement, scheme delivery is possible from Summer 2022 onwards for specific elements of the wider proposals. As the country comes out of Covid-19, it is vitally important we have projects such as these progressing, not only to support the growth of Burgess Hill, but also to support local economic activity and jobs.The situation is under constant review and we will ensure that any contractors working on our behalf comply with Government advice and follow social distancing guidelines.When will the works start? Works are programmed to commence on the Townwide Green links from summer 2020 onwards. Further detail on the construction works programme will be made available as the Programme progresses.Will paths/ public rights of way remain open during the works? Where possible, paths/ public rights of way will remain open during construction works otherwise alternative temporary arrangements will be provided if possible. However, there will be occasions when it is not possible to provide an alternative due to site constraints and temporary closures will be put in place. Where required, these will be undertaken through statutory orders and publicised accordingly.What Design Standards and Guidance will be usedThe schemes will be designed to current relevant standards, guidance and best practice as appropriate.Highway design (both preliminary and detailed) and any associated supplementary documents will be prepared to deliver the key objectives and in accordance with Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB), additional / complementary WSCC (and others) design guidance as needed (including Manual for Streets 2, the West Sussex Cycling Design Guide) and any other relevant guidance issued by the DfT and Local Enterprise Partnership. They will also follow the WSCC’s Record of Practices (RoPes) and appropriate Quality Assurance processes (IS0 9001) of relevant H&T Framework Contract service providers.Will any work on site be carried out during the day, and what will you do to minimise any impact on businesses/residents?Whilst most of the proposed works are located off highway, the phasing of any roadworks on the public highway will need to be planned.

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Page 18: BACKGROUND - West Sussex County Council - …€¦ · Web viewGreen Link Route 10 - connects Kings Way to the northeast, to Folders Lane to the southwest. There is an off-road section,

Burgess Hill Place and Connectivity ProgrammeFrequently Asked QuestionsPublic Engagement May 2020

Will any roadworks be carried out at night and what will you do to minimise any impact on residents?It will not be necessary to carry out any roadworks at night. All roadworks will be carried out during the working day, with some work possibly carried out on a weekend.Who should I contact if I have a query about the construction works?Further detail about construction works will be made available nearer the time of construction. Local residents and businesses will be provided with more detail about what will happen and where, but overall disruption will be kept to a minimum.

Environment Ecology How will you reduce effects on wildlife? The proposals aim to deliver ecologically sound projects, seeking to deliver net biodiversity gains where possible and seek to work with local stakeholders in identifying and delivering any enhancements. Mitigation planting will be provided where possible to replace any habitats affected by the scheme. Will trees be removed? We will try to minimise the loss of any trees. However, some immature trees may have to be removed due to construction requirements.

Landscape and Visual Impact Will there be any significant changes to the local landscape? It is unlikely that there will be any significant changes to the local landscape. If required, where appropriate mitigation will be put in place to minimise any negative impacts during construction and operation of schemes.

DrainageWill the scheme affect any nearby drainage or watercourses? The potential effects on drainage and the surrounding water environment (including consideration of groundwater) caused by construction and operation of the scheme will be considered in the detailed design of schemes. The schemes also provide opportunities to improve the existing drainage infrastructure including the use of Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems.

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