Issue - decisions

It was AGREED that:

1.         The grant of £1.579m from the Department for Transport for Walton Bridge Links and Leatherhead Ashtead Links cycle safety schemes be accepted in accordance with the Cabinet Decision of 26 March 2013

2.         The funding shortfall of £15,000 would be identified through scheme efficiencies or within the Environment and Infrastructure budget.

That the decision to accept the grant be delegated to the Strategic Director for Environment and Infrastructure, in consultation with the Leader and the Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport.

Reasons for Decisions

Tackling cyclist KSI rates is a corporate priority.  The rate of cyclist KSIs in Surrey has more than doubled in the last four years.  The schemes will directly benefit areas of high cyclist KSI rates, by making cycling a safer option for residents that live, work and shop in the town centres.  It will deliver economic benefit by making it more possible for people to cycle, reducing travel costs and congestion.  It will support the County Council’s ambition to secure a cycling legacy from the 2012 Olympics and will support development of Surrey’s visitor economy.

Consultation with residents in Walton-upon-Thames and Leatherhead, identified that 89% of people would welcome the introduction of safe, segregated cycle routes.  Of the people surveyed, 44% of cycle owners and 82% of non-owners identified road safety issues as a deterrent to cycling.  

The relevant Local Committees have formally approved the proposed schemes.  

[The decisions on this item can be called in by the Environment and Transport Select Committee]