Manchester GLASS Meeting
Items for discussion at meeting on 9th April 1998
1. Promotion of Manchester’s Lanes.
Before promoting the use of Manchester’s lanes we need to ensure that we know where they are (see ‘Database’ below), what condition they are in and we need to ensure that they are usable. Once the database is operational, how can we effectively work together to make the lanes usable? And how can we promote their use?
2. Green Lane Day 1998.
GLD happened almost as planned and two lanes were attended to in Stockport. Trafford had sent a blunt letter just before the event declining all offers. Unfortunately, the numbers of volunteers available was lower than expected and many could not stay for the whole day. Next year we must try to co-ordinate the local clubs so that they do not plan events that clash with GLD. Three people returned during the week to finish the clearance. No press release has been sent out following the event.
3. Co-operation Between Clubs.
Nearly all of Manchester’s 4x4 clubs have RoW officers. GLASS is in a unique position to bring these groups together. How can we promote this?
4. Future Offers of Maintenance Assistance.
A document is being written detailing what we can offer to Highways Authorities, the terms and limitations that we will apply and what we expect in return. It is hoped that this will be available for approval next month.
5. Survey Forms and Database.
In order that we can record and assess both the lanes that we have and those that we are researching, we are entering all lane information into a database. The collection of lane information will require the use of survey forms. Dave is currently overseeing the production of this.
6. Training Meetings
The first training meeting is being planned on the subject of ‘The Nature of a Highway’. The suggested date is Sunday May 10th 1998 with future meetings being held approximately quarterly. Are we going to make a charge for these meetings and if so, how much?
7. Local Lane News.
Several local lanes are the subject of much correspondence between GLASS and local Highway Authorities. It is important that we all know which lanes are currently being promoted and how far the system has proceeded. What can we do to ensure that we all know what is happening? How can we all have a greater input in the research/promotion process?