Bradford District Cycle Strategy 2016-2026, entitled ‘Keeping the Wheels Spinning’, co-produced with the local cycling community, key cycling charities and the Council, was endorsed by Environment & Waste Management Overview and Scrutiny committee on 18 April 2017 and then by the meeting of Executive on 17 November 2017.

The report of the Strategic Director, Place (Document “AT”) provides an update on the progress with implementing the Bradford District Cycle Strategy and Action Plan (Top 10 Priorities and KPIs) in accordance with the resolution at the meeting of the Committee on 17 April 2018 that a progress report would be presented in twelve months.

Recommended –

That the Committee notes the progress being made on the implementation of the Bradford District Cycle Strategy.

(Derek Jones – 01274 431056)

Bradford District Cycle Strategy 2016-2026, entitled ‘Keeping the Wheels Spinning’, co-produced with the local cycling community, key cycling charities and the Council, was endorsed by the Environment and Waste Management Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 18 April 2017 and then by the meeting of Executive on 17 November 2017.

The report of the Strategic Director, Place (Document “AT”) provided an update on the progress with implementing the Bradford District Cycle Strategy and Action Plan (Top 10 Priorities and KPIs) in accordance with the resolution at the meeting of the Committee on 17 April 2018 that a progress report would be presented in twelve months.

The Assistant Director, Planning, Transportation & Highways, the Planning & Transport Strategy Manager and the Senior Transport Planner were present and gave a joint synopsis of the report.

A Bradford resident who was also a member of BsPOKE (a consultation group which was open to all cyclists or those with an interest in the Bradford area. BsPOKE aimed to act as a bridge between the Council and those with an interest in cycling and the district) was also at the meeting and was invited by the Chair to make representations. He explained that he worked in a unpaid capacity and stressed the importance for the Council to consider the risk factors in air quality. That cycling offered a cleaner air as opposed to other means of transport. The Council should commit to delivering more friendly user junctions for cyclists, as it was not only about providing additional cycle lanes for cycling. The need to note the good progress made of infrastructure in Bradford and with the right leadership would entail further progression through intellect leadership.

A question and answer session ensued:

·         Cycling was not part of transport and therefore what radical approach was being undertaken towards a shift change?

o   While most funding streams were for significant schemes to segregate, the Council was considering a holistic approach for the purpose of being more sustainable in moving forward;

·         Would cycling be considered in the Transporting Cities Fund?

o   Yes and there was ongoing press coverage.

o   There had not been much press coverage publicity and therefore more publicity was required.

o   The amount of £23m was to be brought into use and the Council was intending to actively seek further funding in the future;

·         How were issues of congested areas, infrastructure of cycling that was not part of the Tour De France zone in Bradford issue of cyclists and pedestrians to co-exist being addressed?

o   There was detailed ongoing work between the Council and cycling groups but at present, no end solution however about continually working together to change behaviours. The fact that some sections of infrastructure were unable to be amended and therefore about shared facilities through adequate signage; and,

·         Was it possible to prioritise schemes residents in Silsden and Riddlesden?

·         The Council  worked with the Combined Authority to ensure such schemes were funded in best way possible.

During the discussion, the Committee made known that the amount of cyclists at the busy junction on top of Manchester Road was unbelievable and it was unfortunate to see a real lack of connectivity for cyclists. If funding was already available in the Combined Authority, then such means should be utilised immediately for schemes in suburban areas that are needed in villages like Riddlesden and Silsden areas.

Resolved –

That the Committee notes the progress being made on the implementation of the Bradford District Cycling Strategy.

LEAD: Strategic Director, Place