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Search the Public Notice PortalI write to support widening the pavement on the busier, east side of Kirkgate adding trees and seating which will make our main shopping street a calmer, more relaxed experience less dominated by cars. This can increase the time shoppers spend, both residents and visitors, thereby supporting local businesses. The carriageway for vehicles will also be widened reducing congestion. Taking all these benefits together it shouldn’t be surprising that 14 out of 15 elected town councillors including myself, across three political parties, supported this proposal to improve Otley for residents and encourage visitors.
The projected cost is £205,000. Of this, £180,000 is a grant from national government and the £25,000 match funding from Otley Town which made it possible for Leeds (who are not using any funds from our Council Tax payment) to secure the sevenfold larger figure making it good value.
I am concerned that Blue Badge parking and loading is protected but this will be done by changing parking restrictions on the west side where parking is still possible. While I would encourage ‘cafe culture’ outdoor seating it should be mindful of not impeding wheelchair users access which can already be a problem.
I do believe that consultation has been carried out and supported the proposal. Looking at the Leeds report if concerns over the road being narrowed and increased congestion are taken out, then “the percentage in favour of the proposals increases to 67% and against is reduced to 33%. This indicates the revised design significantly reduces opposition to the scheme. Kirkgate is one of the main streets in Otley Town centre so this scheme would have significant positive impact on the high numbers of people who use Kirkgate. There is a lot of support for making Kirkgate a more pleasant environment for people including widening the footway, introducing trees, plants and benches.”
I do think unpaid town councillors deserve some respect here in seeking through ‘Street Vision’ to create a town fit for the 21st century. I am saddened by the negative comments on local social media. Sometimes we have to look ahead rather than hanker for a past which never really existed, given my own age this is tempting at times but being positive and seeking to make things better seems preferable.
Mick Bradley
Otley Town Councillor Danefield (Green)
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