Change cycle gear: keep £1.5 million for city cycling
11 September 2008
Green councillors are delighted that Cycling England has extended Brighton & Hove's status as a 'cycle demonstration town' for another three years, bringing in a much needed extra £1.5m investment in cycling.However, Greens say that care must be taken to spend the money wisely.
Cllr Ian Davey, a member of the council’s Environment scrutiny committee, said:
“While the last three years have seen progress in improving provision for cycling in the city, we still have a very long way to go.
"For many, our cycle network is disjointed and incomprehensible – hardly the beacon of cycling excellence we were promised, and the city centre is in reality ‘cycling hostile’ rather than ‘cycle friendly.’
“Brighton & Hove has the potential to be a great cycling city, but all too often people tell me they are surprised to hear we are a cycling demonstration town.
“It’s vital the additional funding from Cycling England is spent wisely. The council must set up a working group with representatives from all parties, and across the community, to oversee the next three years of this project.
“Gathering support for cycling across the whole city, while at the same time drawing on the vast experience that the community has to offer, the group would also be able to learn from the excellent initiatives taking place elsewhere.
“Making the most of this great opportunity means taking a joined-up and thorough approach. But the rewards would be more than worth it.
“Cycling England aspires to ‘getting more people cycling more safely more often.' Achieving this in Brighton and Hove would help make our residents healthier and happier, and our city cleaner and safer.”
Notes to editors:
Media only: for further information please contact Charlie Woodworth 01273 290452[ENDS]
