I want to find out more about the the width restriction on a byway in Crowthorne and understand if due process was followed. Please provide this information on the bollards and sign at approximate location SU 8355 6511 on BOAT ref WOKW BW 29 I

1. A summary of the information you hold regarding the restriction
Section 22 exemption. The deposit documents will be published on https://www.wokingham.gov.uk/roadworks-and-outdoor-maintenance/traffic-management-road-signs-and-markings/traffic-regulation-order-consultations/

2. A summary of the process by which the width restriction was authorised, including dates of the key events
2018 – Consultation with residents regarding resurfacing Oaklands Lane. This consultation highlighted concerns that surfacing the central part of the lane would increase use of the lane as a ‘rat run’ and detract from the historic character of the lane, and the decision was made to leave the central section unsurfaced.

2019 – Resurfacing of the residential section of the lane, and regrading of the unsurfaced central section

Since the resurfacing in 2019 the central section of the lane had not withstood the vehicle use of the lane. In June 2021 two near misses were reported by Hatch Ride School with young children nearly being hit by a vehicle using the lane at speed.

A meeting was held on 1st July 2021 with WBC Officers, Ward Members and Wokingham Without Parish Council to discuss the issue and potential solutions to the problem. Following this meeting the decision was to consult residents regarding an option to make an experimental Traffic Regulation Order to restrict the use of the central section of the lane, to address the safety issues and the ongoing surfacing problems with the lane.

October 2021: A consultation letter was circulated by Ward Members to households to immediate residents and residents in the wider vicinity of Oaklands Lane. Following this consultation the decision was made to go forward with an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order.

A notice of proposal for the order was published on 19th May 2022.

3. Minutes of the meeting where the restriction was authorised by Cabinet (or Committee)
No information held. This restriction is made under a Experimental Traffic Regulation Order so not necessary for cabinet approval.

4. A copy of the order
Section 22 exemption. The deposit documents including the order will be published on https://www.wokingham.gov.uk/roadworks-and-outdoor-maintenance/traffic-management-road-signs-and-markings/traffic-regulation-order-consultations/

5. A copy of the statement from the Parish survey for the draft definitive map and statement
These are available for public inspection at Berkshire Record Office so we are applying Section 21 exemption.

6. A summary of the historical maintenance record for the byway
• surface repairs, Jan 2018
• surface repairs, June 2018
• surface repairs, May 2019
• resurfacing of residential sections of lane and regrading of central section, July/August 2019.
• surface repairs, Feb 2020
• Countryside Service clearance of mud/detritus on tarmac path along Oaklands Lane, Oct 2020.
• surface repairs, Dec 2020
• repair of drain cover, Oct 2021

Countryside service also undertake vegetation clearance each year.