Policy

The previous cycling policy document for Buckinghamshire, Encouraging Cyclists in Buckinghamshire, was produced in 1995. This document identified that there are different types of cyclists with different needs; the experienced cyclist requiring better on-road facilities and the inexperienced/young cyclist requiring off-road shared use, footway/cycleway facilities. This still applies today, although recent developments/initiatives related to cycling policy and the government’s White Paper, Tomorrow’s Roads - Safer for Everyone have necessitated this review.

Both central government and us, through our Local Transport Plan, recognise the importance of increased cycle use: it both widens travel choice for those who have a car, and it improves access and mobility for those who do not. Cycling is a sustainable form of transport which can offer a practical alternative to the motor car for short journeys. Cycling offers a widely accessible, convenient and environmentally-friendly means of making local journeys, especially in urban areas, and is, therefore, a healthy, economic and efficient means of travelling. By encouraging people to cycle rather than drive, some of the effects of heavy traffic may be tackled, such as traffic congestion and pollution.

The existing highway network has been designed to cater for the growing motorised traffic demand leading to heavy traffic flows, particularly on principal roads. Along with restricted road space and traffic speed, this has created a deterrent to cycle use.

Given the small number of existing cyclists, there is a general lack of awareness by drivers of the needs of cyclists. By increasing cyclist numbers on the roads, drivers should become more accustomed to the presence of cyclists and, therefore, be more experienced in co-existing with cyclists on the highway network.

There is also a perception by some people that cycling offers a low level of personal security. This view, although not supported by statistics, does mean that any facilities provided for cyclists need to be highly visible to overcome these fears.

Our overall objective is to provide safe and high quality facilities that will encourage cycling and reduce dependency upon the car. This would achieve a significant contribution towards the reduction of congestion and pollution, improved accessibility for those without a car, and would offer a healthier form of transport. There is a great deal of work to be done and this policy, supported by the Local Transport Plan, sets out how we will achieve this overall objective. The policy will require updating periodically as the infrastructure is developed and as national guidance for cycling continues to evolve.