Agenda item

For decision. 

The Executive Member for Environment and Sustainability submitted a report for Executive consideration. The report sought approval for the Stainton Way Highway Improvements scheme following public consultation and consideration of the issues raised and proposed mitigations.

The Executive was advised that Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA) had secured funding through the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS) to support sustainable transport accessibility improvements. Members heard that the scheme formed part of a wider regional programme delivered through the Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP), introduced by the Department for Transport.

The Executive noted that the proposals comprised two key elements: the signalisation of the existing roundabout at the junction of Stainton Way and Dalby Way, and the creation of a westbound bypass at the Kings Academy roundabout to alleviate congestion and improve bus punctuality and reliability. Improved footway and cycleway connections were also proposed between the two junctions.

Members were informed that Stainton Way was a key transport corridor providing access to important destinations including the Parkway Centre and Kings Academy. The route formed part of the Council’s Strategic Road Network and currently experienced approximately 12,000 vehicle movements per day. It was reported that, despite existing pedestrian and cycle bridges, the current network arrangements created barriers to active travel due to indirect and less convenient routes between residential areas and key destinations.

The Executive heard that reducing reliance on private vehicles was a key objective of the Council and that the scheme would support sustainable travel, improve accessibility, reduce congestion and contribute towards wider corporate priorities. Members noted that the proposals were aligned with the Council’s approved Highway Infrastructure Delivery Plan and wider ambitions to improve accessibility, safety and connectivity across the transport network.

The Executive was advised that public consultation had been undertaken by TVCA during July 2025 and had included early Member engagement sessions, letters to surrounding premises and an in-person consultation event at Parkway Shopping Centre. A total of 59 responses had been received, with 52% of respondents either supporting or remaining neutral towards the proposals. Strong support had been expressed for safer active travel routes to Kings Academy and for pavement widening.

Members noted that concerns had been raised regarding the introduction of traffic signals at the Dalby Way/Stainton Way roundabout, the need for a crossing point, lane widths on Dalby Way and traffic associated with McDonald’s. It was reported that traffic modelling had demonstrated only a slight increase in congestion, not at a level expected to significantly affect journey times. Furthermore, accident data indicated that excessive speed and failure to look properly had been contributory factors in recorded incidents, and officers considered that signalisation would improve safety through reduced vehicle speeds and dedicated crossing facilities. Following consultation, amendments had been made to the scheme design to address concerns wherever possible.

The Executive also noted that Ward Members had been consulted prior to the public consultation process and that no objections had been raised during that engagement.

The Chair invited the Ward Member for Marton West to address Executive.

The Member queried if the solution posed in paragraph 3.3 which read “The proposals will improve bus punctuality, by creating infrastructure that allows vehicles to bypass queuing traffic and provide priority at traffic signals,” could be achieved without the installation of traffic signals.

A conversation took place during which the degree of consultation carried out was discussed. Members stated any additional consultation should enhance the consultation carried out by the TVCA rather than replace it. Clarification was also sought about what consultation had taken place in neighbouring wards.

The Chair proposed that the item be deferred until a technical response could be provided.

The Chief Executive quoted from para 4.4 of the report commenting it appeared that traffic modelling had taken place. However, it was preferred that a specific, technical, response be provided to the question raised by the Ward Member.

The Executive Member for Finance commented that, going forward, report authors should attend Executive meetings to provide technical detail where required.

The Executive Member for Neighbourhoods requested clarification around funding arrangements from TVCA, should the item be deferred. It was also commented that, should deferring the item affect the availability of funds from the TVCA, an additional meeting be convened to ensure funding arrangements would not be affected.

ORDERED that:

1.     That the item “Stainton Way Highway improvements” be deferred to a future meeting.

2.     An additional meeting of Executive be convened should deferral of the item affect funding arrangements with the TVCA

3.     That report authors be invited to Executive meetings to provide technical advice, where necessary.