Cycling group unveils vision for future in Ely

A CYCLING group has published a strategy it hopes will help improve infrastructure in East Cambridgeshire and encourage more people to get on two wheels.

The Ely Cycling Campaign released its 11-page strategy this week and has called on East Cambridgeshire District Council to bridge the gap between its stated aims for cycling and changes on the ground.

Chairman Andy Shaw said: “The strategy sets out a vision for Ely and East Cambridgeshire where cycling is a safe, enjoyable, and practical way of travelling. “The size of Ely and proximity of the surrounding villages means that all journeys in the area can be easily cycled by the majority of people in relatively short times.

“We believe improved cycling facilities combined with a large uptake in cycling provides benefits not only to cyclists, but also the area as a whole, creating a cleaner, quieter, less congested and more pleasant place to live, work, visit, and enjoy.”

The report highlights the current surge in interest in cycling following national success at the Olympics in London and the Tour de France but says that many are discouraged from cycling by the thought of riding on busy roads.

The strategy calls for a safe and co-ordinated cycle network that is linked throughout East Cambridgeshire and segregated provision, including things like cycle lanes.

It says that all new housing developments that are built should have segregated cycling lanes built in and that a portion of money levied from developers should be spent on introducing cycle lanes in the existing road network.

Mr Shaw said: “It is going to be a long journey to get from where we are now with virtually no cycle provision of any note to getting this strategy fully implemented. The first hurdle is to get support, from the general public and the local councils.”