Issue - items at meetings - National Cycle Network Route 2 Cycle Link

Report of the Director of Environment (copy attached).

(1)       That the Cabinet Member for Environment notes the consultation results which indicate an overall support for the scheme as consulted, and;

(2)       That the Cabinet Member for Environment instructs Officers to begin implementation of the scheme, to include advertising the associated Traffic Regulation Order and Notice under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 of the intention to convert part of the footway for use by both cyclists and pedestrians.

114.1         The Cabinet Member considered a report from the Director of Environment concerning the results of the public consultation on the National Cycle Network Route 2 Cycle Link and the subsequent proposals (for copy see minute book).

114.2         The Cabinet Member explained that the report followed consultation on the proposed seafront link between Palace Pier and the Marina. The route along Madeira Drive and next to the sea was potentially more attractive, spacious and safer.  People using the route would be able to get healthier, travel to work, or just use it for leisure. It could also help to reduce obesity, especially in children, congestion, and improve the city’s air quality.

114.3         Councillor Mitchell supported the route, which ran through her ward, as it was a natural continuum of the cycle route that could benefit leisure users and traders in the vicinity. She requested that the consideration of an upper route along Marine Parade be prioritised to address the needs of commuters. She also sought clarification on the status of cycling along the under cliff walk.

114.4         Councillor Ian Davey supported the proposals and emphasised the need to consider comments from all respondents. He echoed the need for a route along Marine Parade to satisfy demand in the area.

114.5         The Assistant Director for Sustainable Transport explained that while the results of the consultation favoured the lower route along Madeira Drive, officers were prepared consider viability of a route along Marine Parade almost immediately.

114.6         He added that he would write to Councillor Mitchell regarding the under cliff walk as currently there was a ban on cycling, but that officers looking into the possibility of removing this, subject to health and safety considerations.  

114.7         RESOLVED - That having considered the information and the reasons set out in the report, the Cabinet Member accepted the following recommendations:

(1)       That the consultation results which indicate an overall support for the scheme as consulted be noted, and;

(2)       That Officers be instructed to begin implementation of the scheme, to include advertising the associated Traffic Regulation Order and Notice under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 of the intention to convert part of the footway for use by both cyclists and pedestrians.