Derbyshire aims to double cyclists by 2025
An ambitious draft Derbyshire Cycling Plan that aims to make the county the most ‘connected’ in the country been unveiled.
It is hoped greater participation across Derbyshire will result in healthier communities, more visitors, a stronger and more productive economy and a better environment.
“Derbyshire has so much to offer cycling – with the new Derby Arena, the Peak District National Park and major events like the Tour of Britain and Eroica Britannia,” said Ian Drake, Chief Executive at British Cycling and Derbyshire resident.
“There are fantastic places to cycle for beginners, families, disabled people to elite – on the track, the road or on trails. It’s great to see partners coming together to create a joined-up offer for people who want to cycle more and then set ambitious targets for increased participation.
“Increasing levels of cycling is really about two things – helping people live happier, healthier and longer lives, and making the places we live and work better for everyone.
“We know that strong political leadership and targeted investment can make a big difference and I applaud this really positive step forward which will help Derbyshire set the tone for the rest of the country to follow.”
The plan intends to help more people of all ages to get on bikes and become confident riders, while finding it easy to find out information to get started, plan journeys and cycle regularly.
It also aims to put Derbyshire in a better position to attract funding, with an agreed set of priorities and a plan for action in preparation for the opening of national or European bidding processes.
Residents, businesses, clubs and other organisations across the city, county, National Park and National Forest areas are urged to get involved by giving their views on the draft plan.
The Derbyshire Cycling Plan Strategic Group want people to think about what they can do to help make Derbyshire an even better place to cycle – for fun, at the weekend or on holiday, to work, to school, to get fit or to compete.
The successful delivery relies on organisations to get behind the vision, and help to bring about a transformation over the next ten years.
The plan has been written and supported by all local authorities, British Cycling, Derbyshire Sport, Peak District National Park Authority, University of Derby, Sustrans and the National Forest Company in a bid to double the number of cyclists by 2025.
Comment on the draft plan at www.derbyshiresport.co.uk/derbyshirecyclingplan
