See answers to previous information requests

I am writing to make a formal request under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 regarding the access arrangements for White Horse Lane, particularly concerning the locked gate that restricts access to those with a code.

1. Access Code: Please provide the access code for the locked gate on White Horse Lane.
This information cannot be released under section 31 of the Act (Law Enforcement), for the prevention of crime. The TTRO is a restriction of vehicular movement, therefore providing the code would encourage access by vehicle, and contravention of the legal order.

2. Decision Documentation: Provide all documents, minutes of meetings, communications, and reports relating to the decision to install and lock the gate on White Horse Lane with a code.
TTRO attached to install closure of White Horse Lane
24th November 2023 – Internal meeting with WBC Streetworks Team to discuss TTRO requirements/Traffic Management arrangements – not recorded
28th November 2023 – Internal teams call with Refuge Collection team to discuss collection dates/access requirements – not recorded
8th December 2023 – Site Visit with local farmer to discuss working operations/Traffic Management measures
19th December 2023 – Site Visit to Queens Oak pub to discuss delivery schedules

3. Public Access Rationale: Provide any documents or communications that justify why access to White Horse Lane is restricted by a code, including safety assessments or legal advice.
Discussed within meetings provided above – decision to include code mechanism to affected parties was agreed within site visits/calls listed

4. Public Notice and Distribution: Provide information on how the public was informed about the code and how it is distributed, if applicable.
Plans (attached) shared with all attendees at schemes Public Forum event held at Ratepayers Hall on 19th December 2023 (2 x sessions) – Plans detail a full closure originally, but after discussions with local businesses/refuge collection team during meetings listed above, a controlled method of access was agreed to be the most sensible approach.
Residential letters sent to residents of White Horse Lane 24th Feb 2024 & 1st December 2023 (attached)

Context and Fairness Concerns
While White Horse Lane is not designated as the official alternative route during the ongoing roadworks, it is being used by some members of the public who have been provided with the access code. The longer official diversion route imposes significant inconvenience. This selective access raises concerns about fairness and compliance with public access regulations.
WBC distributed the access code to the following parties prior to project start:
• Veolia (Refuge Collection team)
• Local Emergency Services teams (Police/Fire/Ambulance)
• Queens Oak public house manager
• Local farmer

Request for Alternative Information
If providing the code is not feasible, please provide:
• A summary of how the council ensures fair access to White Horse Lane for all members of the public. Access is restricted, as per the Temporary Traffic Regulation Order (TTRO), access via the locked gate was made available to the parties mentioned above to aid in deliveries and ensure businesses could operate as best as possible during the works, Emergency services to aid in response times & Refuge collection teams as the lanes are not suitable for turning around with the size of vehicles required.
• Any alternative arrangements in place to address the inconvenience caused by the longer diversion route. No alternative arrangements. The signed diversion route has been surveyed by the Traffic Management company as the safest means of negotiating the closures in place during the scheme. Whilst some residential roads/shorter routes may be available, the Council discourages there use as they may not be suitable for certain vehicle types.