Decision details

(1)  Installation of the new upgraded local signage system is approved.

(2)  To enable completion of the scheme during 2019/20, allocation of £44k from the TfL walking and cycling budget is authorised.

(3)  Any minor design changes are delegated to the Director of Environment and Public Protection, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder.

In response to Orpington BID management’s request for new signing (existing signing no longer being fit for purpose), a navigating signage system in Orpington along Station Road and the High Street is approved comprising 12 mounting poles and 65 signing fingers with the capacity to adapt to developmental changes.

The area is undergoing a number of changes to support regeneration e.g. Orpington Station forecourt improvement, Station Road congestion relief, and the Crofton Road cycling and walking initiative. Following the 2008 town centre regeneration project to improve the High Street and surrounding areas, the Walnuts Shopping Centre will undergo major regeneration work shortly to improve the public realm and attract more business, shoppers and visitors.

Additionally, the Orpington BID management have highlighted a number of concerns including the condition of current signing.

The chosen replacement system will be sturdier, more attractive, and flexible to facilitate new signage for future Town Centre changes. Existing mounting poles will be replaced as they are not compatible and a map appended to Report ES19084 highlights locations for installation of the signage units. The design offers many advantages including: 

·  ease for people already walking;

·  encouraging more people to walk to shops and attractions in the area;

·  consistent infrastructure in line with local developmental changes e.g. car charging points, cycle parking, and parking for the disabled.

Further material appended to Report ES19084 provides examples of the type of signs and their content and signpost locations. The signage will also be used to direct cyclists to any new facilities as necessary.

The scheme is estimated to cost £44k and will be met from identified funding within the Walking Infrastructure Development Budget.