Monday 16 November 2015
Media Enquiry from Guernsey Press:
I am working on a follow-up article, after the one we ran about the plans to install more cycle hoops.
I have spoken to a couple of cycling representatives and it was raised that while cycle hoops were a good thing, there were other areas which were considered to have a higher priority in encouraging more people to cycle. One of these was to improve routes, especially into Town. Also to allow cyclists to travel on the pavements where they cannot get in the way of traffic, for example on Le Val des Terres.
Please could we have a response from the department?
Environment Department Response:
Yes, installing cycle hoops and shelters is only one of the initiatives that the Department is progressing to encourage more people to cycle. The Department is also working on the following:-
The introduction of more cycle contra-flows to allow cyclists to take a more direct route and make a bike an even more convenient transport option
A comprehensive audit on the main east coast cycle path to identify and implement measures to improve this popular route
Enhancement of the cycling proficiency scheme, including introducing training courses for adults who wish to take up cycling but who perhaps lack confidence
Engaging with businesses to increase the number of people commuting to work by bike, primarily through the implementation of workplace Travel Plans
Investigating the possibility of cyclists being able to legally ride on pavements in certain locations, such as on long steep hills
Expansion of the Ruettes Tranquilles network along with a linked network between parishes
The reason that the installation of some cycle hoops and shelters will be the first of the cycle improvements to be implemented is because it is a relatively simple and low cost project to action. Many of the other projects require more detailed investigation, alterations to legislation and higher levels of funding. However, work on several of these projects is already well underway and therefore when funding becomes available in 2016, the public will soon begin to see the results of all the hard work behind the scenes that the Active Travel Unit is currently undertaking.
Also, it is worth pointing out that whilst the Active Travel Unit has been applying for planning permissions for hoops and shelters to be installed at a number of sites around the Island, it is intended that the work will be carried out in phases as finance permits, taking into account other priorities.
Contact Information:
Colin Le Page, Principal Traffic Officer (Strategy and Projects)
Environment Department
Tel: 243400
