Published on Tuesday 02 November 2021
Public consultation on BCP Council’s Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP) was launched on 1 November and will run until 10 December 2021.
The LCWIP sets out the council’s long-term vision and proposals for investment in a network of walking and cycling routes and infrastructure across the region including cycle parking and potential ‘liveable neighbourhoods’. It builds on and connects with existing cycle and walking provision, showcasing the council’s ongoing, ambitious commitment to active travel and the critical role it plays in reducing local traffic congestion and carbon emissions. The plan contains timings for the improvements over a 15-year period and prioritised routes with the greatest potential to increase levels of walking and cycling.
Local residents, businesses and organisations are invited to view the draft LCWIP and have their say by visiting our LCWIP ‘Have Your Say’ web site. Hard copies are also available on request via: researchandconsultation@bcpcouncil.gov.uk.
Cllr Mike Greene, BCP Council’s portfolio holder for transport and sustainability said:
"I encourage everyone to view the proposals and have their say on our region’s long-term plans to create a comprehensive and well-connected walking and cycling network. Road congestion is a major problem in our region. A key part of our LCWIP is setting out how to increase the number of journeys people make by cycle, wheel or on foot, thus helping to reduce the number of cars on our already overstretched road network. It is essential that we build infrastructure that encourages more sustainable travel, allowing our road network to operate within its physical capacity and free up space for those who do still want or need to use their cars. This will also have a positive impact on emissions and air quality in the region."
Feedback from the local community will inform the final LCWIP which is due to be published in the new year. Central government has explicitly stated that local authorities with LCWIPs will be better positioned to secure future funding for sustainable transport. Initial engagement on BCP Council’s LCWIP, undertaken in spring 2021, received over 3,000 views on the council’s online engagement platform. 390 people completed surveys and 796 used the interactive maps to comment on identified locations. Feedback has been incorporated into the formal plan, which is now being published for public consultation.
BCP Council is also working with a range of stakeholders to inform and complete the plan.
BCP Council’s LCWIP forms a key part of its Transforming Travel programme for creating and improving active travel across the region.