Agenda item

As part of the Committee’s work programme, the Chair, in consultation with the Director for Planning and Regulation, has brought forward an item focusing on the Council’s 2018 Cycling Strategy (see link below). The Director for Planning and Regulation will comment on the delivery of the Cycle Strategy Action Plan to date and focus on two elements for development (i) Create an implementation plan for cycle network improvements and maintenance (including signage and wayfinding) and (ii) Increase the provision of secure and accessible cycle parking across the town, including e-bike charging points. The Chair intends to invite representatives of various cycling interest groups to a future meeting of the Committee to hear these groups aspirations for cycling in Stevenage.

PowerPoint presentation slides will be published separately in a supplementary agenda.

Stevenage Cycle Strategy - 2018

Stevenage Cycle Strategy - 2018 - Appendices

The Portfolio Holder for Economy, Skills, Transport and Devolution introduced a presentation focusing on the Stevenage Cycling Strategy 2018.

The Director of Planning and Regulation summarised the content of the presentation and provided an update on progress made since 2018. The presentation outlined the vision, objectives and impact of the current strategy. Matters discussed included the maintenance of cycleways, safety, cycle parking, and more recent issues relating to e-charging.

It was noted that most of the cycle network is adopted highway and therefore the responsibility of Hertfordshire County Council (HCC). Stevenage Borough Council (SBC) has limited direct control, with roles ranging from lobbying and partnership working to delivery on land within its ownership (e.g. parkland and regeneration sites). Members highlighted historical context and concerns about the County Council’s understanding of the unique Stevenage cycleway network.

Members raised concerns that not having an officer dedicated to cycling in Stevenage had impacted on the implementation of the strategy since 2018. It was noted that a lack of resources has been the main contributing factor.

It was further noted that there was no baseline data since 2018 in the report. Officers advised that direct comparisons using 2021 Census data are limited, though more recent county-level transport data may be available. The portfolio holder clarified that this was being looked at with a view to providing up to date information at a later stage of the review.

Members questioned whether references to cycling routes relate to dedicated cycleways or roads, noting that some maps in the report appear to show roads (for example around Chells Way and Gresley Way) rather than actual cycleways. The Committee asked that the maps be checked and updated for accuracy.

Members discussed cycling restrictions within the town centre. It was confirmed that cycling remains prohibited in the main pedestrianised shopping area. Members expressed mixed views, noting pedestrian safety concerns alongside difficulties accessing cycle parking without dismounting. There was general support for improving safe cycling routes around, rather than through, the town centre, and for reviewing access arrangements as part of future work.

Committee Recommendations

• Network Familiarisation for the New Authority
  That officers undertake preparatory work to ensure the new authority has a clear understanding of the existing cycling and walking network in Stevenage, rather than relying on transition alone.

• Update to Strategy Data
  That updated data be prepared to accompany the 2018 Strategy, providing a 2025/26 position statement on available data and progress since adoption, including the estimated number of cyclists in Stevenage.

• Cycling Access in the Town Centre & responsible use and management of the Cycle Network
  That officers, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder, explore improvements to cyclist access through the town centre, including safe routing and appropriate cycle parking provision and that they engage with cyclists and relevant stakeholders to encourage responsible use of the network and consulting on parking and access issues within the town centre

·         Single Point of Officer Responsibility
That a single, named officer (or dedicated role/champion) be identified to lead on implementation, monitoring, and reporting of the Cycling Strategy and associated action plan, and that the Cabinet Portfolio for Transport and the Director of Planning and Regulation investigate ways that this can be funded for a fixed period ahead of the new unitary authority being established under Local Government Reorganisation

• Underpass Lighting Improvements

That officers investigate the feasibility of graduated or adaptive lighting in underpasses to reduce glare and improve safety when entering and exiting.

• Cycling Promotion and Events
  That opportunities be explored to deliver cycling-focused initiatives or events, potentially supported through Section 106 or other appropriate funding mechanisms, subject to discussions with relevant officers and funding constraints.