Minutes:
The Business Insights Manager introduced a report which reflects anecdotal evidence and the most recent report from Welsh Government prepared by ARUP in May 2012 regarding plans to abolish tolls on the Severn Bridge by the end of the year. The report highlighted a range of issues including businesses using the bridge for transport of goods forecasting that impact was most significant on those moving low value goods. Some changes have already occurred (e.g. CM Downton has taken out a lease at Newhouse Farm).
In terms of tourism, the report broadly concluded that the highest impact would be on day visitors as the reduction in their expenditure represented a significant proportion of their overall spend.
The Report also considered the labour market and commuting and it was believed that there could be an increase in related traffic of around 12% recognising that labour markets take time to evolve.
There is no specific detail on the property market but it is acknowledged that there is noticeable movement to more affordable housing in south of the County by persons wishing to commute to Bristol and surrounding areas, and property prices are expected to rise.
The Head of Operations addressed the Chepstow By Pass. He reminded members of the presentation provided by Mr. A. Braund and the strength of feeling to address traffic congestion and air pollution in and around Chepstow. There is a meeting with Gloucestershire and Forest of Dean Councils next week, as these are issues for both sides. It was also reported that officers have met with Welsh Government and a method of funding feasibility and design studies is sought.
Correspondence has been received that proposals will be progressed from next year and there are indications of political progress. More information will be circulated as it becomes available.
An addition was provided that the issues were raised at a recent meeting of the Severn Growth Summit and the Secretary of State promised to make contact. Councillor Becker agreed to chase progress.
It was suggested that the removal of tolls could present an opportunity for the Council to construct a car park on the Newhouse site for care sharers.
It was reported that there has been a noticeable reduction of commuters from Severn Tunnel Junction which could be contributing to the gridlock or be related to issues with GWR, Network Rail maintenance, delays and overcrowding. Concerns were expressed about Chepstow on race days, worsening delays at the Brynglas tunnels and the omission of the needs of Caldicot in the long term plans for the capital region.
It was questioned if there was any modelling done on commuting or impact measurement on train usage and agreed that these aspects would be an essential element of a feasibility study to address the broad issues in the area including the consideration of a Chepstow By-Pass.
A Member made the following points:
· The possibility that the City Deal developed traffic modelling system may be utilised,
· that it was accurate that emphasis is strongly on linking Cardiff to Bristol overlooking the Caldicot/Chepstow issues,
· that a digitally enabled Park and Ride should be considered with Gloucestershire County Council at a variety of sites and that there may be funding available under the heading of digital inclusion e.g. to develop an app.