Minutes of the Local Traffic Committee Meeting held 6 February 2015

BYRON SHIRE COUNCIL

14.1 - Attachment 1

Report of the Local Traffic Committee Meeting held on Friday, 6 February 2015

Meeting Commenced: 11.40 am

PRESENT:

Councillor: Cr Duncan Dey.

Cr Rose Wanchap (Observer Items 5.1 – 5.8)

Cr B Cameron (Observer Items 5.1 – 5.9)

Roads and Maritime Services Representative: Greg Sciffer

Staff: Simon Bennett

Scott Brodie (Items 5.1 – 5.10)

Helen Waldron (Minute Taker)

Apologies:

The Hon Don Page, MP

The Hon Thomas George, MP

Declarations of Interest

There were no declarations of interest raised.

Adoption of Minutes from Previous Meetings

Recommendation:

That the minutes of the Local Traffic Committee Meeting held on 12 November 2014 be confirmed.

No. 5.1 Extension of School Bus Route, Fowlers Lane, Bangalow

The Committee reviewed the information provided in the Agenda, which is as follows:

File No: F161\04 / #I2015/45

Council has received an application (E2015/6458) from Mr Brian Bowden operator of Bangalow bus lines to extend the existing school bus route to the end of Fowlers Lane, Bangalow. The request is made by the operator on behalf of the authority (NSW Transport) who typically also seek Council input.

Fowlers Lane is a rural ‘no through’ lane of approximately 2.2km length west of the Pacific Highway, with the first part sealed and the majority unsealed. There are 48 land parcels.

Council has no intention at this time to upgrade the lane or provide a shelter. The operator believes a shelter is provided for patrons along the route and that turning the proposed 24 seater bus will likely require a three point turn made at the end of the road. It is noted the most frequent large vehicle (weekly garbage collection) has no known problems with driving the route and turning around.

Committee concerns or advice on this matter is sought noting the draft recommendation made is typical of previous approvals.

Figure 5.1.1: subject site

Committee Comments

1. safety of current turning point needs looking at

2. bridge and turning circle that is part of a consent condition may affect this request

3. noted this would require a three point turn – forwarding motion turn is preferred by RMS

Management Comments

Nil

Recommendation:

That Council hold no objection to the proposal of Mr Brian Bowden (school bus operator Bangalow bus lines) to extend the existing school bus route along Fowlers Lane, Bangalow from the Pacific Highway to the end on the basis the driver is able to:

a) utilise a safe point for passenger pick up and set down

b) undertake a safe turn around with a forward movement turn only

c) that the Planning Department of Council be informed as it may relate to the works proposed for the creek crossing

No. 5.2 ANZAC Day Parades 2015

The Committee reviewed the information provided in the Agenda, which is as follows:

File No: F161\04 / #I2015/45

Thursday, 25 April 2015 marks the 100th anniversary of the ANZAC landings at Gallipoli. As such a larger turn-out than normal could occur at the local annual services, of which there are four.

Of the four, correspondence from the Byron Bay sub-branch has only so far been received. They are proposing an earlier start time (4:30am) than previous years for the dawn service and therefore road block as implemented by Council near the Memorial Gates at intersection of Marvell Street and Tennyson Street. However the same parade route (as shown) will be followed within Byron Bay by gathering at 10:15am off-road (Beach Hotel) at Bay and Jonson Street, then proceed south down Jonson Street, into Marvell Street and end back at the Memorial Gates whereupon the parade disbands.

Verbal advice suggests the other branches will also follow the same parades routes as previous years as shown noting as follows:

- Mullumbimby parade is typically held under Police escort, 1030am-1130am

- Brunswick Heads also has Police involvement, commencing 5.45am, conclude 10am;

- Bangalow involves Council road closure, 10.45am – 11.45am

Figure 5.2.1: parade routes

Committee Comments

Nil

Management Comments

1. Council has an annual budget for these RSL sub-branch ANZAC Day events.

2. Post-meeting, the Byron Bay RSL confirmed their request involves blocking the road at intersection of Tennyson and Marvell Streets from 4am for the dawn service. This closure is typically only applied for the parade which, as in previous years, will also be held between 10am-12noon. As a result the intersection will be closed, with detours in place between 4am through to 12noon.

Recommendation:

1. That Council endorses the ANZAC Day Parades for 25 April 2015 for the Return Services League sub branches of Byron Bay, Mullumbimby, Bangalow and Brunswick Heads / Billinudgel.

2. That Council implements the necessary temporary road closures and detours and places advertisements in the local newspaper as required by the Roads Act 1993

No. 5.3 Request for Disabled User Limitation Parking Bay, 6 Marvell Street, Byron Bay

The Committee reviewed the information provided in the Agenda, which is as follows:

File No: F161\04 / #I2015/45

QML pathology located at 6 Marvell Street, Byron Bay has requested at least one, if not two, disabled bays be provided at or near their business frontage. They argue that the existing 2P limit is excessive and patrons are not able to easily find a space closer to the premises due to the time limit and it is especially difficult for those with a disability.

Disabled bays are included in Council’s mobility map: http://www.byron.nsw.gov.au/files/pages/mobility-maps/byron_bay_mobility_map.pdf. The mobility map shows at least eight (8) disabled spaces within a 150m radius of the site (as depicted in Figure 5.3.1) which would appear adequate number for the area.

As for time limits, 1P, 2P, 4P and no limit applies in the same 150m radius as it is noted the request is also concerned for greater turn over, which can be achieved by reducing the existing 2P time limit to 1P for example; which is a time limit the ongoing Byron Bay parking study has recommended more of be provided in the town centre.

However as the whole town centre will require substantial consultation, and this specific request reflects that broader intention, it is therefore recommended 1P parking be consulted upon with tenants of Marvell Street between Jonson Street and Middleton Street as time limits receive better compliance and easier to understand if they apply to length (e.g. one block) as opposed to single situations (e.g. at a shop front only). .

Figure 5.3.1: 150m radius of site – 8 disabled bays exist

Assuming consultation is supported, it is then also recommended it be done in the context of the parking study, noting the latest Resolution of Council includes investigation of $3 per hour on-street with ‘locals’ being exempt. As ‘locals’ are yet to be defined/criteria established, the consultation could also (if deemed appropriate) survey number of employees and where they are from and how long they need to park. The survey also offers opportunity to test the market in regard to any pricing Council may seek to apply.

Committee Comment

1. noted changes to time limits will be considered by Byron Bay Parking Study underway

2. therefore requests such as this and changes to time limits should be considered in the broader context of the study, however be progressed as a separate matter to pay parking and whether or not Council applies a ‘locals’ exemption

Management Comments

1. the matter will be considered in context of the parking study and referred back to LTC when and as required .

Recommendation:

COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION

1. That Council not install an accessible (disabled) parking bay on Marvell Street, Byron Bay between Jonson Street and Middleton Street at this time.

2. That the Committee supports in principle the need for reduced time limits as requested, however acknowledges that consultation with tenants/land owners will take place as part of the Byron Bay parking study.

No. 5.4 Request for 2P Time Limit and Council Enforcement, Shopping Plaza, Byron Bay

The Committee reviewed the information provided in the Agenda, which is as follows:

File No: F161\04 / #I2015/45

The land owner of the shopping plaza area (see Figure 5.4.1) located on Jonson Street, Byron Bay north of Woolworths has requested a 2P time limit be introduced (currently no limit applies) and that Council enforce.

The arrangements of enforcement are subject to agreement and not a Committee matter.

Committee endorsement of the time limit is however sought. Given time limits typically apply 9am-6pm every day in the town centre, the same is recommended for this site.

Figure 5.4.1: subject site

Committee Comments

1. Council enforcement of a private car park requires the property to be ‘leased’ to Council

2. pick up / drop off zone and ‘parents with prams’ spaces should be considered, however such decision remains with the owner

3. however any regulatory changes to the private car park while under lease to Council will require LTC/Council approval

Management Comments

Committee comments are noted and will be referred on to parties and be undertaken as required, noting an agreement for Council to enforce the new time limits has been issued to the land owner.

Recommendation:

COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION

1. That Council approves a 2P time limit which is effective 9am to 6pm each day and it applies where signed in the car park located at 90-96 Jonson Street, Byron Bay (Lot 5, DP 619224).

2. That Council suggests to the owner that 15 minute pick up / drop off zones and ‘parents with prams’ bays, as well as disabled parking bays be considered in line with current parking standards.

3. That any proposed regulatory changes in the car park while under lease to, or subject to agreement with Council, will need referral to the Local Traffic Committee for approval.

No. 5.5 Proposal for One-Way Middleton Street, Byron Bay, Lawson Street to Bay Street

The Committee reviewed the information provided in the Agenda, which is as follows:

File No: F161\04 / #I2015/45

Council is designing and planning for the 2015/16 construction of a car park area at the site depicted (Figure 5.5.1).

Part of the proposal is to remove two-way operation from Middleton Street, between Lawson Street and Bay Street and make it one-way. The options for one-way can be either north to south (Lawson to Bay) or continue the current east bound one-way flow along Bay Street by making it south to north (Bay to Lawson). Either way, consultation is recommended with a report back.

1. noted the proposed car park is formalising existing informal parking

Figure 5.5.1: current one-way and subject site

Committee Comments

While the Committee recommendation as made does not state a preference for the direction of the one-way, both options and the benefits and disadvantages of each, could be included to assist in the consultation recommended

Management Comments

Consultation as with one-way (if it proceeds) will further inform Council design plan, with both to be reported back to Council via the LTC

Recommendation:

1. That Council undertake consultation with land owners and tenants of Bay Street and Bay Lane, Byron Bay between Fletcher Street and Middleton Street, and those on Middleton Street north of Lawson Street, in regard to the one-way options and proposed car park.

2. That the matter be brought back to the Local Traffic Committee and Council following the consultation period.

No. 5.6 Proposal for 2P limit, Lawson Street, Byron Bay, East of Middleton Street

The Committee reviewed the information provided in the Agenda, which is as follows:

File No: F161\04 / #I2015/45

Council’s Byron Bay Parking Study has recommended increased use of time limits in the town centre. The study is not specific about where these should be placed. However following the successful use of the 2P Special Event Parking area (SEPA) employed over seven (7) days this summer, Rangers have advised time limits would be beneficial on Lawson Street, Byron Bay between Middleton Street and Massinger Street. The subject site is depicted in Figure 5.6.1.

Currently no time limits exist on the north side (yellow line) or most of the south side (purple line) where holiday accommodation / lets dominate. Part of the south side (green line) between Middleton Street and Gilmore Crescent where the library is located has 2P time limits in place.

Parking is parallel but not marked. The subject site is approximately 650m in length, therefore providing a significant number of spaces for those needing all day/unrestricted parking. The adjacent Gilmore Crescent and Massinger Street have no restrictions and likely to experience increased parking if time limits are introduced at the subject site. The Clarkes Beach car park (north side, east end of subject site) provides 4P parking at $4 per hour, with exemption to the hourly fee provided to those ‘locals’ displaying Council’s parking coupon.

While Committee advice is sought, the extent of the proposal dictates consultation be undertaken and done so in the context of the parking study.

Figure 5.6.1: subject site

Committee Comments

1. noted the area is currently used by workers, as it allows all day parking

2. acknowledged all day parking needs for workers need to be addressed

3. on this basis, it was noted changes to time limits will be considered by the Parking Study

4. therefore requests such as this and changes to time limits should be considered in the broader context of the study however be progressed as a separate matter to pay parking and whether or not Council applies a ‘locals’ exemption

Management Comments

1. the matter will be considered in context of the parking study and referred back to LTC when and as required.

Recommendation:

That consultation with tenants/land owners of Lawson Street, Byron Bay east of Middleton Street be done in the context of the Byron Bay parking study, noting that Local Traffic Committee see merit in introducing a 4-hour parking time limit.

No. 5.7 Proposal for 2P limit, Shirley Street, Byron Bay, east of Milton Street

The Committee reviewed the information provided in the Agenda, which is as follows:

File No: F161\04 / #I2015/45

Following the second successful implementation of the 2P Special Event Parking Area (SEPA) time limit this summer (29 December to 4 January inclusive), Rangers have supported the introduction of a permanent 2P time limit on Shirley Street, east of Milton Street.

The subject site is depicted and is often used by vehicles for private sale or vehicles advertising their business elsewhere in town. As such the potential use for car parking is reduced and can be improved by enforcing a time limit, such as recommended. An alternative option could be providing 4P limit, given the walking distance to the town centre, however while the hospital remains operational 2P can be justified as they are significant generator of traffic and parking.

Committee Comment

1. noted changes to time limits will be considered by Byron Bay Parking Study underway

2. therefore requests such as this and changes to time limits should be considered in the broader context of the study however be progressed as a separate matter to pay parking and whether or not Council applies a ‘locals’ exemption

Management Comments

1. the matter will be considered in context of the parking study and referred back to LTC when and as required .

Recommendation:

1. That, prior to consultation taking place with tenants/land owners, Council consider what time limit is desirable for Shirley Street, Byron Bay.

2. That Council notes the Committee favours for Shirley Street 2P east of Milton Street, and 4P to Kendall Street,

3. That the consultation be undertaken with consideration of the broader parking study being undertaken and used to further inform it.

No. 5.8 Request for Centre Line Marking, Coolamon Scenic Drive, South of Goonengerry Road

The Committee reviewed the information provided in the Agenda, which is as follows:

File No: F161\04 / #I2015/45

Council has recently (by end of December 2014) implemented the RMS speed zone authorisation of an 80kph limit on Coolamon Scenic Drive effective from Mullumbimby through to the Pacific Highway. Prior to that, Council received a detailed request from a local resident seeking improved delineation for the same road, especially between Goonengerry Road to the Highway. This is an approximate length of 11.3km with two distinct sections, being 4.6km to Coorabell Road and 6.7km from Coorabell Road to the Highway, a section which averages 1,362 vehicles per day.

While the crash history of 23 in the five years to 30 June 2013 (18 of them leaving road/out of control, 13 due to speed) and the recent 80k speed limit introduced support further delineation on a safety ground, the specific request for centre line marking is only possible where road widths permit, noting most of the section between Coorabell Road and the highway is likely to accommodate.

To this end it is recommended centre line marking be implemented where applicable standards and RMS requirements can be met. As for costs of undertaking the works, the RMS are requested to assist or advise of an appropriate funding source (if any).

Committee Comment

1. prior to implementing one measure, which in this case is centre line marking, it is recommended a review be done and implemented in order as follows: guide posts, line marking, advisory signs, curve alignment markers (CAMS),and then site specific signs for identified hazards or problems

2. the review needs to consider crash history and road conditions and any changes implemented need to ensure consistency and continuity

Management Comments

1. the matter will be considered in context of the parking study and referred back to LTC when and as required .

Recommendation:

That a review of delineation measures, such as guide posts, advisory curve markers, speeds, and line centre marking etc be undertaken and implemented as found warranted on Coolamon Scenic Drive, between Goonengerry Road and the Pacific Highway.

No. 5.9 Change Give Way to STOP, Cowper Street, Byron Bay at Ruskin Street

The Committee reviewed the information provided in the Agenda, which is as follows:

File No: F161\04 / #I2015/45

A request for a STOP sign at the subject site depicted has been received.

Council receive crash data every year and review sites. The map also shows small black and blue dots. They indicate crashes at the intersection, blue being the most five year data. The crash trend indicates vehicles are going through the intersection and supports the need for a STOP sign.

Other factors need review however as well, including sight distances.

However it is recommended STOP signs be installed subject to such review and meeting required standards and RMS requirements. It they are not met, a report back to the Committee will be provided for other options.

Figure 5.9.1: subject site

Committee Comment

STOP sign only to be implemented if sight lines warrant it, otherwise alternative measures will need consideration, for example physical measures to narrow the approach and curve and / or centre median with signage to reinforce the existing Give Way

Management Comments

Nil

Recommendation:

That Council replace the Give Way with STOP signs at the intersection of Cowper Street, Byron Bay with Ruskin Street subject to RMS requirements being met.

No. 5.10 Request for Time Limits and Review, Middleton Street, Byron Bay

The Committee reviewed the information provided in the Agenda, which is as follows:

File No: F161\04 / #I2015/45

A long term resident of Middleton Street, between Marvell and Carlyle Streets, has requested 4P be implemented for that length and that time limits also be considered for streets eastward.

However as Council has undertaken a parking study which is ongoing, such changes need to be considered in that broader context.

Hence the recommendation made for consultation and specifically the proposals as depicted, namely:

1. Middleton Street, being:

a) 4P on west and east side, Marvell Street to Carlyle Street;

b) 2P on west side, north of Marvell Street.

2. Marvell Street, east of Middleton Street being:

a) 4P south side (includes Bowls club frontage)

b) a review of time limit (currently none) on north side

3. a review of time limits for:

a) Carlyle Street east of Middleton Street,

b) Middleton Street, south of Carlyle Street

Committee Comment

1. noted changes to time limits will be considered by Byron Bay Parking Study underway

Management Comments

1. the matter will be considered in context of the parking study and referred back to LTC when and as required.

Recommendation:

That the report and request for time changes on Middleton Street and Marvell Street, Byron Bay be noted and referred to the Byron Bay parking study for further investigation and be reported to the Local Traffic Committee and Council when and as required.

No. 5.11 Event Road Closure, Bangalow Billy Cart Derby, Sunday 17 May, 2015

The Committee reviewed the information provided in the Agenda, which is as follows:

File No: F161\04 / #I2015/45

Organisers of this annual event have advised as follows:

The Bangalow Billycart Derby is scheduled to be held on Sunday 17 May, 2015 and we request permission for a temporary road closure in accordance with the attached Traffic Control Plan. This will be the same as in previous years with the majority of traffic being diverted via Deacon Street, Bangalow.

The NSW Police have been formally advised at Tweed Byron Local Command division.

The event is held each year without incident. Road closures are done by Council.

Recommendation:

1. That the Bangalow Billy Cart Derby, to be held Sunday 17 May 2015, which includes the temporary road closure of Byron Street, Bangalow between Granuaille Road and Market Street between the hours of 6am and 4pm, be endorsed.

2. That the organisers be responsible for implementing an approved Traffic Control Plan, including the use of signed detours, as designed and implemented by those with appropriate accreditation and be advised Council’s fee for holding an on-road event will apply.

3. That public liability insurance be in place for the sum of at least $20 million and a copy be provided to Council.

4. That the concurrence of the Police be sought by the organisers, independent of the Local Traffic Committee endorsement.

5. That the event be advertised in accordance with the Roads Act charged at cost to the organisers.

6. That the event be notified on Council's website.

7. That if Council staff and materials are required for the event, costs be recorded and invoiced to the organisers as appropriate.

Committee Comments

Nil

Management Comments

Nil

No. 5.12 Event Road Closures, Byron Bay Triathlon, Saturday, 9 May 2015

The Committee reviewed the information provided in the Agenda, which is as follows:

File No: F161\04 / #I2015/45

This annual event marks the end of the triathlon season and is growing in participation (near 1,200 expected) and will include many less in an off-road (on path) community fun run on the Sunday. The Saturday event however remains the same and as in previous years requires substantial road closures and traffic management over the 4 hours of 12noon to 4pm.

The maps provided by the proponent are reproduced and indicate the most impact is within the town centre with several streets closed. Past years Clifford Street, Suffolk Park has also had at times long delays (30 minutes or more) which can occur subject to the timing of the cycling leg.

However while inconvenience and delays are experienced, and each year a few (2-3) complaints are received, the event is well advertised in advance (notice to residents provided), has no reported safety problems, is well controlled with Police and traffic control involvement and anticipated and well received from the business community who benefit with the large visor number in what is otherwise a slower trading period.

Figure 5.12.1: maps

Committee Comments

1. the best direction to circle (ie clockwise / anticlockwise) to be checked by Traffic and Transport Planner prior to the event

Management Comments

Nil

Recommendation:

1. That endorsement be given for the 2014 Byron Bay Triathlon to occur on Saturday, 9 May 2015.

2. That Council approves the temporary road closures within Byron Bay for undertaking the 2014 Byron Bay Triathlon as follows, with each to be in effect no earlier than 12 noon and removed no later than 4pm:

a) Bay Street, between Fletcher Street and Middleton Street

b) Middleton Street, between Bay Street and Marvell Street

c) Marvell Street, between Middleton Street and Tennyson Street

d) Tennyson Street, between Marvell Street and Browning Street

e) Bangalow Road, between Browning Street and Broken Head Road

f) Broken Head Road, from Bangalow Road to the Ballina LGA boundary

g) Lawson Street, between Middleton Street and Massinger Street

3. That the approvals provided in Part 1 and Part 2 are provided subject to the proponent’s:

a) use of an accredited designed and implemented Traffic Control Plan

b) meeting of the advertising requirements of the Roads Act 1993

c) letter box drop of properties affected by the road closures, advising of the event and the proposed traffic management and road closures

d) event being notified on Council's website

e) Council’s consideration of any submissions received

f) timely lodgement of current and appropriate levels of insurance and liability cover

4. That the use of Butler Street Reserve, Byron Bay for the purpose of event car parking is subject to Council licence and agreement and the timely provision of a Parking Management Plan.

5. That the approvals within Part 1 to 4 relate to Byron Shire and that the holding of the event remains subject to the:

a) result of Council’s advertised submission period

b) written approval from Police

c) written approval from Ballina Shire Council

No. 5.13 Traffic Management, Mullum to Bruns Paddle, Sunday 24 May 2015

The Committee reviewed the information provided in the Agenda, which is as follows:

File No: F161\04 / #I2015/45

In their application to Council organisers of this local fund raising annual event state:

As in past years the paddle committee is requesting permission for temporary one-way traffic in the northern part of Brunswick Terrace between Tincogan & Tyagarah Streets, Mullumbimby between the hours 6:30am – 10am to allow for the registrations and start of the 2015 Mullum2Bruns Paddle.

The turn from Tincogan Street into Brunswick Terrace would require a “no right turn “sign and our local VRA traffic marshals will be on duty at this intersection which would also disallow “no left turn” from the Federation Bridge into Brunswick Terrace, we note that a right turn into Brunswick Terrace from Tincogan Street caused traffic build up last year.

There will be traffic marshals at the intersection of the southern part of Brunswick Terrace which will only allow vehicles to cross into the northern part of Brunswick Terrace when parking is available for them to set down their kayaks, canoes etc.

There will be no parking permitted on the residential side of Brunswick Terrace and this will be patrolled by the VRA to ensue as little inconvenience to residents as possible.

Participants will be diverted along the southern part of Brunswick Terrace to the intersection of Brunswick Terrace & Tincogan Street to enable them to cross to the starting area.

A letter box drop would be done 2 weeks prior to the event informing residents in the surrounding streets of the temporary one way traffic closures.

The application included plans and maps indicating the same traffic measures as previous years is sought.

Committee Comments

Nil

Management Comments

Nil

Recommendation:

That Council approve the temporary traffic control measures in Mullumbimby for the Mullum to Bruns Paddle, to be held on Sunday 24 May 2015, subject to the proponent’s:

a) use of an accredited designed and implemented Traffic Control Plan

b) holding public liability insurance for the sum of at least $20 million

c) the event being advertised in accordance with the Roads Act 1993

d) the event being notified on Council's website

e) consideration of any submissions received

f) letter box drop of residents advising of the event and traffic management

No. 5.14 Little Black Dress Cycling Event

The Committee reviewed the information provided in the Agenda, which is as follows:

File No: F161\04 / #I2015/45

An application to conduct The Little Black Dress Classic on-road cycling event to raise money for the Jodie Lee Foundation / Bowel Cancer Research has been received and proposed to be held 22nd March 2015 through to 29th March 2015.

The event website is at:

http://www.jodileefoundation.org.au/bowel-cancer/events/little-black-dress-classic-2015

The event starts in the mid-north coast area of the Coffs coast and ends at Broadbeach, Gold Coast. The event will be within Byron Shire on days 4-6 of the event, and during this time includes the following.

On day 4, the event ravel Yamba to Byron Bay. As per Figure 5.14.1, which is the map provided in the original application received, the event will cycle from Casino to Lismore then onto Bangalow then finishing the day at Byron Bay. The route will enter Byron Shire after leaving Clunes on the state road of Lismore-Bangalow Road then proceed through Bangalow main street and then onto Byron Bay via Bangalow Rd, Old Bangalow Rd, then rejoin Bangalow Road until following Browning Street and then Jonson Street to reach the end of day destination.

On day 5 the event will undertake a Byron Bay loop leaving and retuning to their Jonson Street destination by following local streets in Byron Bay and depart via Bangalow Road onto the coast road (Broken Head Road) through to Ballina Shire. Their return into Byron Shire is via the rural and narrow Booyong Road until they again join Bangalow-Lismore Road and follow the same route to Byron Bay as used on Day #4.

On Day 6 of the event the route follows the one used by the annual Rainbow bike ride by leaving Byron Bay west along Ewingsdale Road and onto Mullumbimby via Myocum Road and Coolamon Scenic Drive. Once at Mullumbimby, cyclists follow Dalley Street, Burringbar Street and Arygle Street and then follow Mullumbimby Road and Gulgan Road through to Brunswick Heads whereby they follow the old highway (including Tweed Street) through to joining Brunswick Valley Way and Tweed Valley Way until they reach Tweed Shire.

It is noted the proponent has received Police concurrence which advises as follows:

In principle, the New South Wales Police Force does not sanction the conduct of this type of event on the State’s Highways and major road systems. There are inherent risk factors which directly impact on the safety of those involved and other road users. These risk factors include:

Figure 5.14.1: Day 4 route

Figure 5.1.4.2: Day 5 loop

Figure 5.14.3: Day 6

 high speeds,

 high traffic volumes,

 long lengths of unformed/gravel road shoulders,

 horizontal and vertical site distance restrictions,

 narrow lane widths, and

 large heavy vehicles, long distance coaches and B-Double movements on all major roads throughout New South Wales.

The New South Wales Police Force has no official objections to your present application, provided the event is conducted in accordance with the attached lists of conditions. Departure from these conditions may result in police terminating the event and thereby requiring participants to comply with the normal provisions of the Road Transport Legislation.

The RMS have also provided direct advice and recommendations to the event, especially matters regarding the highway.

Committee Comments

1. organisers of the event have been talking to RMS

2. one of the proposed routes has been used previously for the Rainbow Ride Challenge

3. the route proposed for day 5 of the event crosses from Byron Shire to Ballina Shire, then back to Byron Shire and RMS to follow up with other LGAs

4. some of the roads proposed are narrow (near single) lane width

Committee Comments

1. As the event is a not a race, the RMS ‘Guidelines for Bicycle Road Races’ do not apply, nevertheless they do provide assistance in organising such an event and to be provided to the proponent

2. Additionally, while the event does not require a road closure or traffic controls (eg stop and go, vehicle detours, reduced speed limits, etc), it is likely to impede general motoring public, especially on narrow roads or tight curves where safe passing will be limited as inadequate width or sight lines exist

3. To this end, the cycling group must always be contained within a lead and rear support vehicle that displays signage advising motorists of the event/cyclists and proceed with caution

4. It is also the responsibility of the organisers of the event to inspect the route they have chosen and ensure that participants are advised of any hazards (and corrected where feasible) and agree participation is at their own risk, ie within reason, Council or any third party is not responsible for the conditions of the route travelled

Management Comments

1.Council’s Risk Management Officer is aware of this event

Recommendation:

That Council note the proposed Little Black Dress Classic on-road cycling event, being held to raise money for the Jodie Lee Foundation / Bowel Cancer Research between 22nd March and 29th March 2015 and holds no objections to the event being held in Byron shire as proposed, subject to the following:

a) concurrence of the NSW Police and Roads and Maritime Services and their conditions and requirements being met

b) organisers implement risk management and assessment prior and during the event including provision of lead and rear motor escort to contain the cycling group at all times

c) public liability insurance being current and not less than $20 million

d) advertising in accordance with the Roads Act 1993

f) event being notified on Council's website; and

g) proponent accepting Council is not held liable for defects, hazards and conditions upon the route travelled

No. 6.1 Wilson Creek Public School Bus Bay

The Committee reviewed the information provided in the Agenda, which is as follows:

File No: F161\04 / #I2015/45

The School Principal has made contact in regard to concerns for student safety at the School frontage. Concerns relate in particular to School bus pick up time due to the narrow road, no off-road space to embark, the limited sight line of and for approaching vehicles and speeds they travel.

It is noted that Council, via LTC has considered this issue previously. On 23 October 2008 Council, in receipt of LTC report (file# DM796394), resolved as follows:

08-614 Resolved:

1. That the interim measure for a temporary bus bay on the northern side of the road, as proposed for Wilsons Creek Primary School, be supported and conveyed to the School.

2. That funding options for the more permanent measures proposed of a formal bus bay, footpath and retaining wall be investigated.

Note the attachment (design plan) is online:

http://www.byron.nsw.gov.au/files/meetings/2008/10/23/2008-10-23-Ordinary-2a-Council.pdf

Part 1 was undertaken while the landslip now recently repaired, however delayed the undertaking of Part 2 as it reduced and controlled traffic movements through the problem area, ie the School frontage, and in particular the on-road movement of students to and from the bus.

A meeting was held with the Principal on 30 January 2015. The Principal reiterated previous concerns and also offered an alternative to the design previously resolved upon, namely the use of school land to cut into the embankment. Upon inspection this option would appear to offer significant benefits and cost savings upon the resolved plan.

While it is recommended this option be reviewed, designed and costed, it is noted the cost will still remain substantial and Council will likely need to look at external grants and funding opportunities.

The need for more immediate action however still remains; i.e. how best to accommodate two buses at departure time on the narrow rural road and improve safety for the students. To this end Committee advice is sought on the matter and an aerial photo/map of the subject site will be tabled.

Committee Recommendation

1. noted buses should pick up and drop down on the School site for safety reasons

2. design, costing and funding are required before June to allow the project to be submitted to the RMS for funding

3. there is a possibility that the RMS will provide 100% funding

4. size of bus being used to be reviewed.

Management Comments

Staff will progress the plans and funding opportunity with RMS, noting the 30 June deadline, and on basis 100% external funding is made available to cover all costs, from survey, design through to construction with any delays reported to Council as required.

Recommendation:

1. That a new design be developed which allows the School bus and students to board and embark on the School site.

2. That staff pursue the possibility of a smaller bus being used and if not possible under the current contract, than it should be part of new contract.

3. That Council notes the new proposed design allows improved safety and will cost less than the previously approved design.

4. That Council notes the potential for 100% funding from the RMS if the design meets their requirements and can be commenced prior to June 2015.

No. 6.2 Late item – Rescue Helicopter Fundraiser, Byron Bay to Ballina Chopper Walk, 2015

The Committee reviewed the information provided in the Agenda, which is as follows:

File No: F161\04 / #I2015/45

This annual walk event is again proposed to thr follow the same route. As no reported issue or problems are known, approval is recommended.

Recommendation:

1. That Council endorse the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter fundraiser, Byron Bay to Ballina Chopper Walk, to be held Sunday 24 May 2015, subject to:

a) the use of an accredited designed and implemented Traffic Control Plan for the purpose of stop/go controls where required

b) the use of marshals along Marine Parade who, for the purpose of aiding and forming participants into walking groups, are to undertake their duties in accordance with a pre-event risk assessment and management plan, a copy of which is to be provided to Council prior to the event

c) public liability insurance be in place for the sum of at least $20 million

d) the event be advertised in accordance with the Roads Act, with the advertising charged at cost to the organisers

e) the event being notified on Council's website

f) consideration of any submissions received

g) attainment (by the event proponent) of NPWS written acceptance of the event

2. That the endorsement in Part 1 is also subject to the following in regard to the use of Seven Mile Beach Road, that is:

a) signage, which specifies the date, hours and nature of the event, be positioned at the entrance and exit of Seven Mile Beach Road one week prior to the event;

b) on the day of the event, at 500m intervals, and facing both directions of travel, signs advising of “ Special Event - Charity Walk Ahead” (or similar) are installed prior, and removed after, the event occurs; and

c) a safety induction for participants advising of hazards be provided.

There being no further business the meeting concluded at 2.30 pm.

Venue	Conference Room, Station Street, Mullumbimby
Date	Friday, 6 February 2015
Time	11.30am
Committee Members	Greg Sciffer – Roads and Maritime Services Snr Constable Ray Wilson – Police Cr Duncan Dey Hon Don Page MP Hon Thomas George MP