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 North Devon Cycling Forum // 0 threads
Two-way traffic for cyclists on Barbican Terrace-Litchdon Street, allowing to cycle from the Strand to Summerland Street
Created by Rosamund Humphrey (Admin Officer) // 1 thread
20/04969/FUL: Three storey front and rear extensions, alterations to the office building, replacement cycle store, new plant compound and installation of EV charging points.
Babbage House, Castle Park, Cambridge, CB3 0AT
Created by Rogerdodge // 1 thread
Kingston Council have opened the Consultation on this route, it also includes Ewell Rd - see separate Map. Open until 17th November
Created by Adam Edwards // 1 thread
Hatfield has the makings of a good cycle path network. However, the cycle path from the station to the town centre ends at the west end of French Horn Lane and fails to then connect to the University to the south or the Business Park (EE HQ, etc) to the west.
WelHatCycling are lobbying (most recently our MP Grant Shapps) to get this missing link filled. The route is shown on the map and is entirely unobstructed. The key work is a toucan crossing of Queensway, needed not only for the cycle route, but also to open up the north east end of the town centre to passing trade from people cycling and walking via the town centre.
Created by David Butler // 1 thread
Consultation of cycle lanes and junction changes by Manchester City Council
Created by Charlie Halliday // 1 thread
Proposed off-road cycle path following the A323, Norris Hill Road, to link Fleet with the existing cycle-path from Norris Bridge towards the centre of Farnborough.
It would enable cyclists to avoid Norris Hill Road, an unlit road with speed limit of 60 mph. Once built it would be possible to cycle from Fleet to Farnborough without cycling on roads.
This is in the Fleet Town Access Plan ref. PC9
Created by Marcus Howarth // 1 thread
see https://consultations.tfl.gov.uk/trams/sutton-link/?cid=sutton-link
Here's the overview from TFL:
Overview
We are consulting on proposals for a new, direct and quicker transport link between Sutton and Merton. We have called this the Sutton Link.
The Sutton Link would create a high-capacity route for people travelling between Sutton town centre and Merton using zero-emission vehicles. It would connect with other major transport services into central London and across south London, including National Rail, London Underground, existing tram and bus services. It would make journeys by public transport quicker and more attractive, and reduce the need for trips by private car.
Many of the neighbourhoods along the proposed routes have limited public transport options. The Sutton Link would support new homes being built and would improve access to jobs, services, major transport hubs and leisure opportunities across both boroughs and beyond.
Our work is at a stage where we would like to know your views about three potential routes. We are considering a tram or ‘bus rapid transit’ (BRT) for the Sutton Link and would also like to know your views on this.
BRT is similar to a tram but runs on road segregated from traffic where possible, not on rails, and carries fewer people in each vehicle. A full explanation is included below in the section titled ‘About trams and bus rapid transit’.
From LCC -
general principles would be ensure this doesn’t negatively impact cycle routes, that there are good routes to the stations/stops, that any places where cyclists will be crossing tracks are designed carefully with latest materials to avoid tramlining incidents, that the space comes from private car lanes.
Created by Shaun McDonald // 1 thread
The roundabout at the south end of Claydon under the A14 is pretty horrible for pedestrians and cyclists. It would be extremely useful if this could be upgraded to a Dutch style roundabout with:
* tighter entrances and exits will slow down vehicles to a safer speed while cyclists and pedestrians are around. The current dimensions are only ok when there are no cyclists or pedestrians around and it's safe for motors to go fast.
* single lane entrances and exit will make is easier to cross each arm. There would be no zig zag in the island.
* cycle track with separate pavement for pedestrians outside the roundabout, thus preventing conflict between the 3 modes of transport.
* cycle track crossing at 90 degrees to the road to aid visibility between different modes of transport.
Created by Stephan Matthiesen // 0 threads
The whole area is a barrier, there are no connections between North Bridge, St Andrews Sq/George St and top of Leith Walk without lot of bus/taxi/confused private car drivers and cyclist-blender junctions.
Created by Stephan Matthiesen // 0 threads
Road was converted to one-way recently, forcing cyclists from Kings Buildings out onto busy West Mains Rd where previously they could cycle within the campus to the toucan at the NE corner.
Created by Dominic Fee // 1 thread
East-West Cycle Superhighway Phase 2 from Paddington to Acton
Created by Sam Saunders // 0 threads
A twenty metre stretch of advisory cycle lane at the end of Whiteladies Road, from a zebra crossing to its junction with Queens Road, encourages cyclists to take a position near to the curb as they enter the and leave the junction. This puts them exposed to frequent buses turning immediately left into Queens Avenue and in a vulnerable position from which to continue a journey south west towards Park Street or Park Row.
Created by Jim Chisholm // 3 threads
AstraZeneca have announced they will by 2016 move to the Biomedical Campus on the Addenbrooke's site. We need to engage with them.
Created by Simon Nuttall // 3 threads
Talk by local historian about cycling in Cambridge
Created by Steven Moseley // 6 threads
Of and relating to Colchester Borough Council.
Created by Stephan Matthiesen // 0 threads
Contraflow bike lane in Salisbury Rd for easier access from Southside to Commonwealth Pool, Pollock Halls and Holyrood Park.
Created by aSemy // 0 threads
A tree on the side of East side of Whiteladies road (next to HSBC) has a notice stating that the tree will be removed and replanted. The tree is on the very wide pavement right next to the road, and the road is not wide enough for vehicles and cyclists: a pinch point.
There is clearly enough space on Whiteladies road for a segregated cycle lane. It is a popular route used often by heavy traffic. With enough shifting of road lanes there's even enough room for an uphill cycle lane.
Replanting the tree away from the road would remove one small obstacle and show evidence that BCC is looking towards improving cycling in the long run.
Created by Simon Still // 1 thread
The Local Implementation Plan (LIP) sits underneath the Local Plan and sets out our commitments to make the changes outlined in the Local Plan a reality.
This LIP also identifies how the London Borough of Redbridge will work with Transport for London (TfL) towards achieving the Mayor's Transport Strategy goals of:
Created by Shaun McDonald // 1 thread
The "cyclist priority route" on NCN1, Felixstowe Road obviously isn't that subjectively safe as I've seen someone cycling on the pavement southbound rather than on the road.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DItGP0Lt200 is a video of the road from another occasion.
Created by Dan // 1 thread
Traffic lights will not change for cyclists when on the sensor (at night).
Kate Ravilious // 1 thread
no cyclist ever uses this junction as the engineers intended. It doesn't function well and is dangerous. Needs reviewing.
Well lane has been blocked to through motor traffic creating a nice quietway for walking and cycling.
However where it meets Percival Road a dropped kerb has not been installed meaning that cycles, pushchairs and wheelchairs have to bump down to cross Percival.
A couple of dropped kerbs and perhaps a parking restriction would really open this up as a nice cycle quietway.
Bike users can turn right and cycle contra flow using a very narrow on road cycle path. Motorised traffic cannot do this, Park Road is one way to motorised traffic. Traveling down Queens Road there is no signage to suggest that bike users can turn right. Once into Park
Road there is awkward raised 'island' to manoeuvre around. Suggest signage saying right turn for bikes only and reconsider design of Island to make it less of an obstacle.
Created by Jean Dollimore // 1 thread
Fleet Road is a one-way street with heavy motor traffic and no protected cycle infrastructure. This means that people cycling through the area face unpleasant interactions with motor vehicles as well as needing to make diversions to reach destinations in the area,
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.
Residents of Beaumont Square and the surrounding area raised concerns about rat-running and the problems it causes in local streets. You may remember that the Council previously consulted residents on traffic management proposals to reduce traffic speed in the area; many of which were strongly supported and have now been implemented. A number of additional ideas were also put forward by residents which have now been considered and we would appreciate your opinion on whether they should be introduced.
One of the problems is the level of traffic trying to avoid the traffic lights at the A11 Mile End Road/White Horse Lane junction. Drivers cut through either Beaumont Square or Eastbury Terrace through to Beaumont Grove to join A11 Mile End Road junction causing safety concerns, particularly for the nursery and nuisance to local properties. In addition, Beaumont Grove suffers problems relating to parking for surrounding shops and takeaways.