Election campaign 2024
It is important that we engage with the candidates at each election, scrutinise their views, and press for commitments to active travel and sustainable transport.
This section lists issues - problems on the street network and related matters.
Issues always relate to some geographical location, whether very local or perhaps city-wide.
You can create a new issue using the button on the right.
Listed issues, most recent first:
Created by Anna Williams – Head of Campaigns & Engagement // 4 threads
It is important that we engage with the candidates at each election, scrutinise their views, and press for commitments to active travel and sustainable transport.
Hybrid Planning Application at Land South of Coldhams Lane comprising: Full Application for 'Parcel A' Building 1 (Use Classes E(g)(i) (Offices), E(g)(ii) (Research and Development)) and the Hub Building (sui generis) with associated car and cycle parking, Outline Application for the remainder of 'Parcel A' for E(g) uses including office, research and development, car and cycle parking, landscaping, infrastructure and associated works, with all other matters reserved except for access, Full Application for ecological enhancements to 'Parcel B', Full Application for landscape improvements and access to 'Parcel C'.
Land South Of Coldhams Lane Cambridge Cambridgeshire
Cambridge
Application reference : 23/01683/SCOP
Created by Heather Coleman // 1 thread
Temporary fencing, for no apparent purpose, that then becomes a hazard as it falls over or degrades.
Created by Jonny Camp // 1 thread
How can we tell whether a bicycling environment is good or bad? How many times have you been cycling along a piece of existing infrastructure only to find the word 'end' written on the pavement and yourself forced back onto the road into traffic?
With this in mind, I am undertaking a piece of research as part of my masters dissertation at Queens College, University of Cambridge. I am gathering primary data of existing users of the current cycling network across Cambridge. From this data I will be able to assess the coherence and directness of the existing cycle network and identify potential 'bottlenecks' and issues from the point of view of the users.
Created by Martin Wheatley // 1 thread
Because of a combination of subsidence and grass tussocks growing through the path, my wife's e-trike tipped over on the Greenway path between Lode and Longmeadow this afternoon. Fortunately she is only bruised and shaken but it could clearly have been a lot worse. I have reported it to Cambs Highways as an emergency.
Unless and until it is repaired, I would advise extreme caution on this section of the Greenway or use the Bottisham Greenway, Tunbridge Lane, Park End and Swaffham Bulbeck High Street instead. The on-road sections of the latter are usually pretty quiet.
sound+fury // 1 thread
The area covered includes the cycle route to Church Road. It may also be useful to look at the cycle parking.
Martin Lucas-Smith // 1 thread
Downing College are proposing to extend and rework the old 'Pizza hut building' on the corner of Parker's Piece.
I can't see any obvious issues other than making sure that sufficient cycle parking is created. I think they are intending to put this within the main college grounds themselves, over the road, which probably makes most sense.
sound+fury // 2 threads
This (apparently) revised draft leaves little/nothing for any other forms of transport and continues a policy of road expansion.
Martin Lucas-Smith // 1 thread
Change of us from Class E to a composite restaurant (Class E) and takeaway use together with external changes
56 St Andrews Street Cambridge Cambridgeshire CB2 3DA
Application reference : 23/00795/FUL.
The plans indicate that the existing heavily-used cycle parking will, at least in part, be removed.
sound+fury // 1 thread
Not much information yet, but Hills Road Sixth Form College are hoping to create a second base to the north/east.
Plaza adjacent to proposed primary school on key phase 1
Waterbeach Barracks Key Phase 1 Primary School Plaza Denny End Road Waterbeach Cambridgeshire CB25 9PA
South Cambridgeshire
Application reference : 23/00872/REM
I haven't spotted whatever it is that is supposed to provide "access for picking up and dropping off pupils". There seems to be a 5-Sheffield toastrack ("exact product TBC") on what looks like the 'drive' (next to 'He' which means heritage surface coarse asphalt). I do not see anything that would encourage use of Bakfiets etc.
Image is a crop from LANDSCAPE GENERAL ARRANGEMENT PLAN
I have noticed that especially since the congestion charge there has been a lot of aggression towards Camcycle in social media comments. Notably on Facebook, Nextdoor, etc. I am aware that angry aggressive people have always been on the internet but I do feel the level has increased since congestion charge notoriety, with many people's opinions degenerating into conspiracy theories about Camcycle and the council.
I do worry about the effect this can have on increasing "us vs them" mentality and increasing aggressive behaviour towards cyclists on the road.
sound+fury // 1 thread
We might need to look at the road layout proposed here.
Created by Richard Holton // 0 threads
Works on the Greenway on east side of the Horningsea Road. No provision for cyclists to pass safely. Only option is to cross at previous pedestrian crossings, though there is no signage to indicate this.
Created by George Lund // 1 thread
Improvements required for safe crossing of walkers, cyclists and horseriders using the main path through the forest.
Created by Gabriel // 1 thread
The County Council is proposing some of those cheap and nasty speed cushions at Birdwood Rd. Link: https://www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/residents/travel-roads-and-parking/roads-and-pathways/traffic-regulation-orders/permanent-traffic-regulation-orders#proposed-tro--reference-number-pr--------proposed-speed-cushions-in-birdwood-road--cambridge--9-0
Closing date for comment is 17 March 2023. Email to: policyandregulation@cambridgeshire.gov.uk
Created by Rosamund Humphrey (Admin Officer) // 1 thread
This is a container issue for event threads.
Created by Rosamund Humphrey (Admin Officer) // 1 thread
Cambridge City Council have launched this new consultation as part of the Our Cambridge programme which aims to shape the council of the future. This may be relevant to our work because it includes thinking about how the council works with its stakeholders.
sound+fury // 1 thread
A previous application was refused in part because of the cycle parking provision. What's the new one like?
Created by David Green // 1 thread
Are you confident at what to do if something goes wrong with your bike when you're miles from home? Could you repair a puncture by the side of the road? Yes? Great! No need to read on.
No? You may be interested in the following Saturday workshop I am running again. This will be a repeat of the popular workshop held last year where attendees gave feedback such as:
"Excellent - would recommend it to all inexperienced riders."
"Following the course I really feel I understand the workings of my cycle."
"It was very clearly explained and covered very useful topics."
"Thoroughly informative workshop. To be highly recommended."
David Green
===
Survival Skills for Cyclists
Venue: Coleridge Community College, Radegund Road, Cambridge CB1 3RJ
Date: Sat 25 March 2023, 10am to 4 pm
Description: A one day bike maintenance course for local cyclists. Bring your bike and get confident you can cope with common roadside cycling breakdowns. Women members especially encouraged to sign up! Places are limited to ensure you learn in a small friendly group and get all the assistance you need. Topics will include: checks before you set off, tools to take along, fixing punctures, handling chain problems, gear and brake adjustments.
Equipment: Your own bike to work on, pump, puncture repair kit, and any tools you normally ride with.
Refreshments: hot and cold drinks provided, but please bring your own lunch!
Fee: £20 (CTC and CamCycle members) £50 (non-members). Subsidy available for those on a low income - please don't be put off by the price. Primarily funded and supported by CTC Cambridge.
Enrolment: To book a place, email da...@guertler-green.co.uk with subject 'Survival Skills for Cyclists 25 March 2023'.
sound+fury // 1 thread
There's a proposal to use speed cushions to slow traffic down on Shelly Row and Albion Row.
Created by Marcus Howarth // 1 thread
Consultation:
London Borough of Sutton is considering installing a motorcycle barrier on the Spencer Road Entrance at Watercress Park to help prevent unlawful use by motorbikes and we are interested in hearing your views. The barriers are designed to allow pedestrians and those using mobility scooters and wheelchairs to enter but to stop motorcycles from gaining access.
We are aware that motorbikes regularly access the site via the Spencer Road entrance which can cause anti-social behaviour and safety issues. As part of the Council's commitment to improving the situation for local residents we propose to install an inhibitor gate.
Created by Marcus Howarth // 2 threads
(Last item on sheet)
Convert zebra crossing to a parallel crossing (one that allows cyclists to use it) near Mellows Park which would provide a continuous safe facility for cyclists. This would provide links to an existing contra flow cycle lane in Redford Avenue and a large residential area in Mellows Park, and a borough cycle route into Wallington district centre
Stafford Road Parallel crossing
These currently being negotiated by LBS with TfL - hopefully funding confirmed mid March 2023.
Created by Marcus Howarth // 2 threads
Created by Roxanne (CEO) // 1 thread
The new owners of Capital Park, Fulbourn, CB21 would like to meet and discuss any cycling issues relevant to the site.
This map shows all issues, whether points, routes, or areas:
The most popular issues, based on the number of votes:
Created by TMiles // 0 threads
A shared-used area runs parallel to Park End Street across Frideswide Square, fronting the Saïd Business School. This offers an alternative approach to the station, and allows cyclists approaching from the city centre to avoid manoeuvres across two roundabouts.
There is however a lack of a properly aligned, clearly marked refuge between the two streams of traffic on Hythe Bridge Street at the point where cyclists would seek to cross into this shared space.
Created by David Butler // 1 thread
Manchester City Council Development strategy for the Ancoats and New Islington Areas. Includes development and urban design principles, and will be a "material consideration" in determinng planning applications.
A recent announcement about the funding of 6000 new residential units by ADUG in this part of Manchester increases the need to ensure that cycling is given due prominence in this strategy.
Created by James Avery // 1 thread
The UHCW NHS Trust has applied for planning permission for a new access roads and multistorey car parks, under a plan drawn up by leading global engineering firm Arup.
Please ask them to go back to the drawing board and come up with something better.
The planning application details are here:
http://planning.coventry.gov.uk/portal/servlets/ApplicationSearchServlet?PKID=744613
Please state that you OBJECT to the current proposals as they don't give any consideration to encouraging more cycling (or walking).
The trust are open to discussion via twitter (@NHSUHCW), but the council need to be asked to bring this matter to the committee (currently it is just classed as deferred, which means officers decide themselves).
Created by Shaun McDonald // 1 thread
The A92 here has some very fast traffic. Considering this is the flagship National Cycle Route 1, and there is already a cycle path of part of the way between these 2 junctions. It would be much better if this cycle path was continued to the next junction, with some crossing aid in the form of traffic lights, bridge or tunnel. This would open this part of the route to a wider range of participants, as it would be significantly safer.
20 mph speed limit for Newport area, enclosed by the river Taw, The Square, Belle Meadow Road, Inner Relief Road, Hollowtree Road, South Street and Park Lane.
Created by David K // 1 thread
At present this is a footpath but it could be widened onto the land owned by Network Rail in order to allow a shared use path.
Kate Ravilious // 0 threads
Like Fossgate, High Petergate needs to be made two-way for cyclists. Otherwise cyclists travelling north are forced to either get off and walk (not an option for disabled cyclists) or join the busy St Leonard's place via a difficult junction.
Created by Simon Munk // 1 thread
Havering council said:
"We wrote to you on 21st October setting out a series of safety proposals for Romford town
centre comprising of a 20mph zone for all streets within the Romford Ring Road (including
some traffic calming measures) and some changes to road markings on various
roundabouts on the Ring Road itself.
We sent out over 2,500 letters to people in the area, but only received 8 responses with 4
of these being from residents. This was reported to the Council’s Highways Advisory
Committee on 6th December where the decision on the scheme was deferred in order for
further discussions to take place with ward councillors.
As a result of these discussions, it has been decided to provide a further period of
consultation and any other comments received shall be reported to the Highways Advisory
Committee on 7th February 2017.
We would therefore like to extend the opportunity for you to provide any comments you
may have to the postal address above, via our email address highways@havering.gov.uk
or through an online form which we have provided at www.havering.gov.uk/consultations."
Created by Alex Jenkins // 1 thread
Tower Hamlets Council is committed to making the borough a safer place for all road users by delivering a range of street improvements in the area; intending to benefit pedestrians, cyclists, drivers and public transport users alike.
Influencing positive changes in road user behaviour is key in providing a safe road environment for the community and although changes in road layout can’t fully resolve this, redesign of our streets can help. Therefore, Chrisp Street and the surrounding areas are currently being invested in with aims to improve road safety for the local community.
Please give us your feedback by filling in the survey (below the map). You may also like to add a comment to our interactive map of the wider area.
Martin Lucas-Smith // 1 thread
This junction is currently very poor. Cyclists end up doing awkward manoeuvres and visibility is not good.
It is possible this could be improved as part of the Chisholm Trail.
How could this junction be redesigned to make it best practice?
Created by Simon Still // 2 threads
Our proposals at a glance
Transport for London (TfL), together with Lambeth Council would like to know your views on proposals for improvements which will include:
To complement this scheme we have been working with Lambeth Council to develop a Low Traffic Neighbourhood in the nearby residential areas to the east of the A23. This will complement the A23 scheme by protecting local streets from through traffic and will help deliver wider objectives such as creating Healthy Routes on local roads. Visit the consultation page of Lambeth’s website from the 22 February 2020 to find out more.
Created by Tim P // 1 thread
Portsdown Hill Road & James Callaghan drive are a set of roads along the top of Portsdown Hill that is currently used by a lot of cyclists for commuting, touring and leisure facilties due to the forts, views and open areas around it.
As such, it's a well known tourist spot to stop for a burger or take a picnic and fly a kite.
However, being on top of an exposed hill results in significant side winds which results in cyclists being blown about by gusts, and therefore all cyclists need to take primary position on this road to give them space. As a 40mph road, many drivers have significant issues with cyclists taking primary, and therefore perform many punishment/close passes.
The affect of this on cycling in the area is many
1) More people would cycle from the surrounding areas ( Waterlooville, Havant, Fareham/Lee on Solent ) to work at QA Hospital or the businesses on the hill if there were better cycle infrastructure.
2) More people would cycle from the surrounding area & to enjoy the space & views if it felt safer to get there.
Created by Andrew Clegg // 2 threads
The garage at the end of radcliffe road uses the end of this road as a car storage area, which often results in the access onto the cyclepath being obstructed.
Martin Lucas-Smith // 1 thread
"Daily parking wars make Red Cross Lane dangerous"
See: https://www.camcycle.org.uk/newsletters/146/nl146.pdf
Need to improve this area for cycling and walking.
Red Cross Lane and Greenlands are marked for 20mph and they're very narrow streets barely two cars wide.
Created by Kevin Ablitt // 1 thread
During the refurbishment of St Mary at the Quay this section of road has been closed. The sky has not fallen on us and neither has traffic ground to ( any more ) of a standstill. In my opinion it should stay closed to MVs and just be segregated for bikes and peds.
Created by Andrew Woodward // 1 thread
South Worple Way is signposted as part of LCN 37; but the western end of it is blocked off with this obstruction; which leaves only a very narrow gap for bikes to get through. Could you get a cargo bike or a trailer through there?
Created by Rhian // 1 thread
This is a well used route already but very muddy as there is no surfaced footpath across the playing field. A dropped kerb at the end of Noble Grove and a surfaced path around the football pitches to a dropped kerb on Parkhead Loaning would be a significant improvement. A type 1 and dust path as detailed in the attached link would perhaps be more suitable than a fully tarmacked path. Lighting at the points of entry to the grassed area would be an added benefit as this is currently a very dark route.
There is a very poor road surface on the left hand northbound lane of Stockport Road (A6) after the Plymouth Grove junction.
This is dangerous as if you bear left it encourages traffic behind you to sneak past you, if you go through it can damage your bicycle or even cause you to come off, if you bear right brings you into direct conflict with traffic which often wants to merge into the right hand lane.
The solution is very simple, resurface this small section of road.
Created by David Lally // 1 thread
Consultation on development in the area of the proposed HS2 East Midlands Hub at Toton. Transport provision with be the County responsibility but it's important that the possibility of cycle route links between the Toton Lane tram terminus (which now has a good quality cycle route to the outskirts of Beeston) and Long Eaton / Route 67 is not compromised.
Created by M Stanley // 1 thread
From member P.C.
As you might know highways has really usefully put more yellow markings to stop parking on this tricky corner
But the local car repair is using the corner as a salesroom. Its made it an even trickier corner. Can we get this info to highways pls as the double yellows need extending and to stop on pavement parking.
Martin Lucas-Smith // 4 threads
The cycle lanes here are a mish-mash of narrow legacy infrastructure, and are often awkward to use.
I know this has been proposed before, but I wanted to add an issue to Cyclescapes in the hope that it might come up again. We can collect reports and evidence here.
Reopening the Belmont Viaduct to cyclists and pedestrians could greatly shorten and improve a lot of journeys into and across Durham.
Previously Durham Council (before the County Council?) were awarded lottery funding for this. I think the issue was with landowners, and so the funding got diverted to projects outside of the city.
Created by Peter Loader // 0 threads
The Maple Cross to Rickmansworth cycle route is one-way along Berry Lane (between Church Lane and Field Way, Mill End).
Created by Cycling Dumfries // 1 thread
At the moment there are toucan crossings from the Whitesands up to the High Street past the lower entrance to the Loreburne Centre (where the buses stop) but there is no actual cycle path so you end up illegally on the pavement. It would be a useful route otherwise, as long as cyclists can get past the bus stops (and waiting bus passengers).
Created by Caroline Page // 1 thread
Eastbound cyclists wishing to avoid the double roundabout at this point are routed onto the pavement, across the exit for the Shell garage (often to the surprise of exiting drivers), and then (still across pavement) onto a piece of decommissioned road used as access and double-sided parking for a parade of shops. This road has a separate car entrance from the roundabout.
Its a lethal combination -I have personally once been hit by a car turning fast from the roundabout on the road entrance as I entered it from the bike route. The driver was very angry because it was my fault that she didn't look out for me. You then have to cycle between two sets of parked cars/vans: there are frequent hazards: suddenly opened doors, people reversing/leaving the parking place without looking behind.
At the end, the cyclist is signed again onto pavement heavily used by schoolchildren/old people at the eastbound Heath Road Roundabout bus stop, before being routed back onto the road along the pull-off for the bus itself.
My personal view is that this scheme has been created and signed by a maniac