The case for cycling as the natural choice for shorter journeys is strong, and the resulting benefits are wide reaching - to the economy, to the environment, and to the health of individuals and communities. They are also particularly useful in cities such as Bath where congestion is already an issue. BANES recognise this, and hold bimonthly cycle forums to review policy. So far, five areas have been identified for improvements, including routes, schools and infrastructure.
The Government is committed to giving people a realistic choice to cycle, so that anyone, of any age, gender, fitness level and income can make the choice to get on a bike. I am pleased that the Conservative Manifesto included a commitment to double cycling by 2025, and that the recent Spending Review committed over £300 million of support for cycling. Despite being unable to attend the debate on the 3rd, I am confident that these policies will encourage more people to take up cycling.