Agenda item

To provide an overview of public transport in Enfield and identify current issues impacting bus and rail services.

Chris Cole introduced himself as the new Head of Strategic Transport Policy and Planning for Enfield.

GTR, the train operators for Great Northern Trains were unable to attend the meeting but provided a brief statement as an update as follows:

In regard to Palmers Green step – free  access, work is currently in progress and due to be completed mid 2024.

In terms of the Great Northern off-peak frequencies, increasing trains from two trains per hour to four trains per hour off-peak would require additional funding which is currently unavailable.

GTR support making the transport interchange at stations attractive and sustainable to all potential users, however the works need significant financial support from external parties and service providers to make it viable.

Robert Varney from TFL provided an update on TFL’s funding position since the impact of the pandemic and was pleased to announce that for the next financial year TFL has returned to financial stability and will no longer require funding support from the government.

Support will still be required for the investment to the piccadilly line.

In relation to the 456 bus route the request to consider extending the service to Crews Hill is not currently viable.

The Superloop (SL1) bus from North Finchley to Walthamstow will be launched 9^th December. The route will cover New Southgate, Arnos Grove, Meridian Water, Palmers Green and Friern Barnet.

The Cockfosters depot is being upgraded with new facilities and features.  Residents in Cockfosters and Oakwood will be kept informed of the deport works which will impact the neighbourhood. This will be supported with newsletters, forums and a designated email address which residents and members are encouraged to join by emailing:

cockfostersdepotupgrade@TFL.gov.uk

TFL will undertake discussions on improvements to the public realm and formalisation of crossing arrangements at Sterling Way, Enfield early next year.

Following the update Members made suggestions and asked questions as follows:

1. Members requested that more attention was considered to the placement of bus-stops to prevent the invasion of privacy into people’s homes. Robert confirmed that TFL work with the council to identify spots but it can be a challenge in built up areas. There is consultation and engagement with the local community for new routes and changes which the community are encouraged to respond to.

2. Members agreed that Finsbury Park and Highbury & Islington interchange require cleaning by TFL and GTR.

Action: Robert will report the issues to TFL.

3: Members enquired whether Grange Park Station will be taken out of service when work is done on the platform?

Action: GTR/Govia will provide an update on the work planned for Grange Park station.

4. Members suggested the reinstatement of the Great Northern Metro to allow for a more frequent service.

5. Regarding signage, bus destinations, audio visual and displays, Members requested a review to ensure consistency and better integration, for Brimsdown, the SL1 and 191 bus, and outside Enfield rail stations and Overground to ensure better interchanges.

Action: David Taylor will check/ hold conversations with TFL and GTR regarding signage, audio and visual displays.

Action: Enfield Transport Group will liaise with Chris Cole directly to provide a list of further locations that require better signage and interchanges.

6. In relation to the viability of the 456 bus route, Robert stated that there were several elements involved. There would need to be work done at Crews Hill Station to improve the turnaround point for the buses, to make it safe and viable, also cost efficiencies. The route will be revisited periodically as the development continues.

7. In answer to a question on disability access, it was confirmed that 90% of all bus stops and buses are fully accessible in London. There are trials taking place now on improving the count down at bus stops and audio updates for those who are visually impaired. Drivers are also expected to give updates. Officers added that there is an ongoing programme for converting some of the hail and ride sections to fixed stops which would make those routes more accessible.

8. Residents in Cockfosters and Oakwood will be kept informed of the deport works which will impact the neighbourhood. This will be supported with newsletters, forums and a designated email address which residents and members are encouraged to join by emailing: cockfostersdepotupgrade@TFL.gov.uk

Action: Members are invited to email Robert with suggestions and contributions to the Hail & Ride consultations.