Use of Temporary Traffic Restriction Orders (TTROs) - Covid
TTROs are used when changes to road use need to be temporarily modified, including to avert danger to the public. The Coronavirus legislation extends the TTRO time period to 18 months and guidance indicates that measures may be taken to facilitate social distancing and active travel, partly due to the advice to avoid public transport.
However, TTROs citing Covid 19 as the rationale are being used to implement radical and experimental traffic schemes, including Low Traffic Networks (LTNs) without the public consultation that would be associated with a regular Traffic Restriction Order, even though the council has stated their intent to make at least one such scheme permanent, with a consultation post-implementation. That community feels that this is both a misuse use of Covid powers and also, importantly, has placed a significant strain on residents, the majority of which feel it will be to their detriment.
So, please would the Scottish Government now review and amend the TTRO guidance and direct councils to go beyond what is strictly necessary in order to prevent the transmission of Covid 19 and, in so doing, help protect the mental health of citizens who are already suffering after 7 months of restrictions?
Why the contribution is important
I have a real concern about the deteriorating welfare and metal health of citizens and ask that we don't limit freedom of movement more than is strictly necessary for prevention of Covid 19 transmission.
Whilst 'active travel' is generally good, it is not a panacea, especially in colder months, with the elderly and disabled being most severely affected by any lack of vehicular access for the normal business of life, including medical needs and social contact. Key workers who can't work from home are also disproportionately disadvantaged. And 18 months is a long time to suffer TTRO restrictions. In terms of health promotion, everyone will wish to minimise risks associated with falling on icy streets in winter, especially when the NHS is not working at full capacity and hospital visits increase Covid infection risk.
Unnecessary traffic restriction measures/TTROs destroy trust in local and central government at a time when we need to promote cooperation. Whilst Spaces for People is well-intentioned, it has perhaps strayed somewhat from its original remit in some cases. Please review and issue new guidance.
by AngBen90 on October 09, 2020 at 10:58AM
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