Friday 06 November 2015
Environment response to Guernsey Press media query
Media Enquiry from Guernsey Press:
Would it be possible to get a comment from the department with regards to the numerous planning applications it has submitted for cycle stands along the west coast.
I see the department intends to install stands at Grandes Rocques and Vazon.
Why has it decided to do this? Is the part of the transport strategy?
How much will the project cost?
If approved, when would the stands be installed?
Any other comments,
Environment Department Response:
The Integrated Transport Strategy outlines many ways of encouraging increased cycle use and improving cycling infrastructure through the installation of additional cycle stands and shelters is one of those key components.
The installation of a number of new hoops and shelters has already been has been approved by the Board at the following locations:
10 cycle hoops covered with a double shelter at the North Beach car park
4 cycle hoops covered with a shelter at the Bordage
2 cycle hoops at Park Street Triangle
9 hoops at the Bridge
All the planning permissions have been obtained for the above and the Environment Department will be carrying out these works in the first half of 2016, as soon as Strategy funding becomes available. The approximate total cost for both purchase and installation is £12,000.
The Active Travel Unit also been looking for other possible locations around the Island to site hoops. In helping determine sites, it asked the Guernsey Bicycle Group members to suggest suitable locations.
Suggestions where families, individuals, and tourists can enjoy when travelling by cycle included the reservoir, Cambridge, Delancey and Saumarez parks, popular beach locations and villages such as St Martins, St Peters and L'Islet and scenic areas such as Jerbourg and Icart.
The Active Travel Unit carefully considered all the suggestions and has started applying for planning permissions at a number of key sites across the Island. This will enable everything to be ready for the Unit to proceed with a phased introduction in the second half of next year after phase 1 above, as finance permits.
The cost of cycle stands and hoops varies per site; some hoops cost just over £100 while the more durable stainless steel versions which will be used at areas near beaches cost in the region of £200. In the more rural locations such as in the parks and the reservoir, treated wooden stands will be used so they are in keeping with the natural environment.
In regard of the 6 stainless steel hoops proposed for both Vazon and Grandes Rocques, the total cost of purchase and installation will amount to about £3,000.
Colin Le Page, Principal Traffic Officer (Strategy and Projects) said, "It is well known that having good cycle infrastructure encourages cycling. In the case of providing additional cycle stands, those who do enjoy cycling whether that is for recreation, commuting or tourists visiting the island will be able to secure their cycles safely."
"We are sure that families will also take the opportunity to cycle to places such as the reservoir and local parks and in doing so will have enjoyment, reap the health benefits of active travel and free up parking spaces for those who may not be able to cycle. From a tourist perspective these new stands will hopefully help encourage visitors to seek out some of Guernsey's most scenic locations by bike, so reducing traffic movements in some of the busier areas."
Contact Information:
Colin Le Page, Principal Traffic Officer (Strategy and Projects)
Environment Department
Tel: 243400
