Draft Active Travel Strategy Consultation

7. Actions and Interventions

7.1 Infrastructure improvements ('hard' measures)

7.1.1 A broad range of programmes and initiatives are underway to create a road and street network that is increasingly conducive to active travel. These 'hard' infrastructure-related measures are being coordinated in accord with Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans and include a range of interventions.

Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans (LCWIPs)

7.1.2 Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans (LCWIPs) are a working blueprint for delivering a high-quality, accessible and safe infrastructure.

7.1.3 At the heart of each plan is an interconnected web of routes and links, accommodating the needs of pedestrians and cyclists. Some routes already exist whilst others are to be created. The complete network will be progressively constructed over the period covered by the Council's Local Transport Plan.

7.1.4 Central Bedfordshire Council has a suite of six Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans covering the entirety of Central Bedfordshire. Five address the needs of the authority's main urban conurbations that collectively are host to two thirds of residents. The sixth addresses the needs of the remaining smaller towns and rural settlements.

7.1.5 The Plans also encompass links to major towns and employment centres in neighbouring authorities including connections to Bedford, Luton, Hitchin, Letchworth and Milton Keynes.

7.1.6 Objectives, common across all Central Bedfordshire Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans, are to:

• Upgrade current cycling and walking infrastructure, ensuring routes serving important local destinations are of a high quality, accessible and safe
• Provide a comprehensive, interconnected network of routes serving the places people visit regularly. Known as 'trip attractors', these places include schools and nurseries, shops and service centres, places of work and recreation, leisure centres, playing fields and play spaces, train stations and public transport interchanges
• Provide a prioritised pipeline of interventions and improvement schemes to be brought forward through the 'Highways Integrated Schemes Programme' and to inform funding bids, as these are announced
• Provide guidance for planning decisions and for developers promoting development opportunities, ensuring new residents have options to travel sustainably
• Provide routes to connect towns to surrounding smaller settlements, extending sustainable accesses to local services and amenities. Such routes to be of a form that can accommodate micro-mobility technologies as these are adopted, with mobility scooters, e-bikes and e-scooters being examples
• Improve the health and wellbeing of residents by facilitating more active modes of travel for people of all ages
• Reduce car dominance, carbon and particulate emissions and improve air quality within towns, neighbourhoods and outside schools
• As far as is practicable, eliminate injurious collisions involving vehicles and pedestrians and cyclists, helping deliver wider Road Safety Strategy improvement plans and aspirations

7.1.7 Timely delivery of the authority's Local Walking and Cycling Infrastructure Plans is central to this strategy and achieving the aims and objectives therein. For this reason, LCWIP delivery is a strategic priority project for the Council and benefits from a capital allocation in the authority's Medium Term Financial Plan. Progress on delivery is tracked and reported quarterly to the authority's Corporate Management Team.

7.1.8 The six Central Bedfordshire LCWIPs are:

• Ampthill and Flitwick
• Biggleswade, Potton and Sandy
• Arlesey, Fairfield, Henlow and Stotfold
• Dunstable and Houghton Regis
• Leighton Buzzard, Linslade and Heath and Reach
• Rural routes, including other towns and villages not referenced above.

Green Wheels

7.1.10 Each completed Green Wheel masterplan sets out in reasonable detail how the Council proposes to utilise and expand its network of paths and public rights of way to improve residents' access to local green spaces, in the process developing a contiguous network of attractive green corridors within and around the urban periphery. Many of the proposals involve negotiating new rights and will be delivered under the auspices of the Council's Rights of Way Improvement Plan.

7.1.11 Of the proposed twelve Green Wheels, four are substantially in place and a further two have been planned. The remaining six will be master planned over the next three years.

7.1.12 A list of the Green Wheels planned for Central Bedfordshire is provided at Appendix C.

Accessibility Improvements

7.1.13 The Council's Sustainable Transport and Active Travel team is coordinating a programme of works to install pedestrian dropped kerbs where these have been flagged as missing. This will make it easier to cross side roads.

7.1.14 The initial phase of this work will be complete by the summer of 2025 and covers the locations pinpoints by residents during the recent LCWIP and Local Transport Plan public engagement exercises. A further phase will follow to address locations that require a design input, including more complex junctions and where changes are needed to kerb lines and drainage channels and gullies.

7.1.15 The Active Travel team is also progressively reviewing access control barriers and pedestrian guardrail across the highway network with a view to removing all poorly designed or inappropriate structures, in accord with the authority's published guidance.

7.1.16 Barriers impede both cyclists and pedestrians and can negatively impact aesthetics. They are particularly problematic for people who need more space. Their removal will ensure paths within the maintained public highway are accessible to anyone requiring a mobility aid including pushchairs, wheelchairs, disability scooters and adapted bicycles.

7.1.17 The programme to remove, or replace unnecessary and inappropriate access controls is initially directed to cycle routes that are part of the designated National Cycle Network with a view to central Bedfordshire becoming amongst the few authorities that operate barrier free. This work will then extend to other cycle tracks and pedestrian paths including the rights of way network where a policy of 'least restrictive access' applies.

AI-equipped traffic sensors

7.1.18 The Council is building the capacity to monitor the different types of traffic generated by its larger and more recent developments. This allows the authority to assess the degree to which traffic forecasts at the time of an outline planning permission match the reality. This is important as the forecasts determine the level of investment needed to mitigate 'adverse impacts' on the local highway network.

7.1.19 As part of the planning application process, an assessment of expected traffic flows, are set out in a Transport Statement. These flows are used to determine Travel Plan targets in relation to the level of 'modal shift' to be achieved. Typically, the target level of mode shift in favour of more active modes of travel is ten percent⁴.

7.1.20 The sensors due to be deployed in Houghton Regis and Leighton Buzzard use an AI algorithm to differentiate and count lorries, vans, cars, pedestrians and cyclists. They are capable of tracking traffic both using the road network and people on foot or bike using footways and cycle tracks. The data is aggregated to show how levels of traffic vary across each day of the week, each week and each month.

7.1.21 The data, once collated and analysed, will be invaluable in tracking the impact of initiatives and investments in measures that are designed to influence how resident's travel, and hence the effectiveness of the travel planning process.

AI-equipped air quality monitors

7.1.22 To complement its existing monitoring of air quality using diffusion tubes, the Active Travel team has funded the installation of several sensors to provide more dynamic monitoring of levels of air pollutants.

7.1.23 The sensors are mounted on a post or column and are programmed to measure the most common gaseous pollutants including nitrogen dioxide (NO2), nitrogen monoxide (NO) ozone (O3) and carbon monoxide (CO). In addition, the sensors also measure particulate matter including PM1, PM2.5 and PM10 in the ambient air. The AI algorithm compensates for the impact of different ambient conditions and any sensor degradation. If they prove sufficiently reliable, they will be deployed in more locations close to schools and where currently the more expensive gas sampling is used.

7.1.24 The data obtained will be invaluable in tracking and assessing the beneficial impact of schemes and initiatives such as School Streets.

Bike repair stations

7.1.25 During 2023-24, the council arranged for the installation of twenty bike repair stations at locations on the cycle network, at several of the authority's leisure centres and within selected town centres. Each station has a stand, 'track-style' tyre pump and a range of useful tools such as pliers, screwdrivers, spanners and Allen key. The location of each station is mapped and visible via the authority's public facing GIS system interface MyCentralBedfordshire.

7.1.26 The repair stations make it easier for cyclists to undertake a range of simple repairs to their bike without the need to own their own tools.

7.1.27 Since their installation, most of the stands have been damaged with the pumps in particular, proving susceptible to damage through abuse. This has prompted a review of where best to locate the stands following a repair and refurbish. This is likely to see some of the stands moved to schools or to secure cycle hubs (see below) given this would afford the equipment a greater degree of protection.

Cross-boundary routes

7.1.28 The authority is working collaboratively with transport bodies and neighbouring authorities to deliver and upgrade cross-boundary routes. Projects include:

• East-West Rail, where the authority is helping plan 'last mile' connectivity. This is to ensure the majority of trips to future 'main line' stations⁵ along the existing Marston Vale stations are not car dominated.
• MK-Bedford Waterway, with the aim to bring the safeguarded alignment into use for walking and cycling in advance of the full waterway construction.
• National Cycle Network (NCN) route improvements. Within Central Bedfordshire the NCN is mostly but not yet exclusively off-road. Whilst most of the network is in place, some important sections are missing. Others are overly meandering. Routes are:
  • NCN12, which interconnects Stotfold, Arlesey, Henlow, Langford, Biggleswade and Sandy and extends beyond the authority boundary to Letchworth, Stevenage and St Neots
  • NCN51, which interconnects Cranfield and Marston Moretaine and extends beyond the authority boundary to Milton Keynes and Bedford. This route is part of the wider 'Varsity Way' connecting the cities of Oxford and Cambridge
  • NCN6, which interconnects Leighton Buzzard, Dunstable and Houghton Regis and extends beyond the authority boundary to Milton Keynes, Luton and Harpenden.
  • NCN606, which connects the centres of Dunstable and Luton running alongside the guided busway, providing a high-quality link to Luton Central Station Interchange and beyond to London Luton Airport.
  • NCN574, a spur that extends from Route 6 to the Dunstable Downs visitor centre but with potential to connect Dunstable and Hemel Hempstead.
  • The National Byway, Chilterns Cycleway and Greensand Cycleway, designed predominantly for leisure and recreational cycling, making use of roads, greenways and bridleways.

7.1.29 Several of the above projects are being developed with the support of Sustrans, National Highways, the Canal and River Trust and England's Economic Heartlands, the region's overarching transport body. These organisations are in many cases landowners and provide access to other sources of development and delivery funding.

Destination-based facilities for cycling and walking

7.1.30 Alongside the ease by which people wishing to travel on foot or by bike can access various destinations such as schools and shops, the ability to park a bicycle in a secure manner is hugely important. This is equally the case for employees, pupils and visitors.

7.1.31 Through the application of its planning policy and guidance, the authority has ensured most popular, well frequented destinations have adequate levels of cycle parking. In several instances, the authority has facilitated a funding contribution towards the cost of upgrading existing parking provision including for most mainstream schools⁶ and mainline railway stations⁷.

7.1.32 Most railway stations, including those on the Marston Vale line, have cycle parking provision in the form of Sheffield stands⁸, often located within a covered shelter and surveilled by CCTV. However, as noted in Appendix B, the high level of theft of bikes from railway stations is a major barrier to prospective cyclists⁹.

7.1.33 To counter the problem of bike vulnerability to committed thieves, the authority is working with Network Rail and Training Operating Companies to install secure cycle hubs¹⁰. The target is to see these installed at all mainline stations in Central Bedfordshire, plus at selected authority leisure centres.

7.1.34 In this regard, a secure cycle hub similar to the one in place at Biggleswade station is to be constructed on the western side of Arlesey Station during 2025 through a collaboration with Govia Thameslink Railways.

7.1.35 The lack of secure cycle parking at most flatted and apartments buildings is also problematic for residents, often compounded by poor access¹¹. The adoption of the Council's updated Parking Standards for New Developments has been an important step forward. In future, cycles must be stored where they can be easily retrieved, whilst remaining secure. Use of rear garden sheds or communal bin stores will no longer be acceptable.

7.1.36 To assist with the above issue the authority is considering piloting chargeable cycle parking in the form of 'cycle hangars', a solution popularised by London boroughs. This will include accommodating hangars within the carriageway on residential streets.

7.1.37 An increasing number of leisure and recreational destinations with the authority are also providing facilities beyond parking to attract cyclists. An example is the Forest of Marston Vale Millenium Country Park where visitors can hire a bike. The authority is also host to Woburn Woods Center Parcs, renowned for its car-free family and cycling-friendly environment.

Cycle sports facilities

7.1.38 The authority is host to several sports and recreational facilities geared towards attracting cyclists. These include BMX racing and pump tracks and various mountain bike trails and jumps sites including at Rowney Warren Wood, Rushmere Park, and Aspley Woods.

7.1.39 During the funded period of the Leighton-Linslade Cycling Town project, two pump tracks were constructed in local parks, adjacent to cycle routes. Similar to skateparks, these facilities have been a popular addition to the range of available adventure-style play provision.

7.1.40 Over the course of this strategy, it is hoped to see similar cycle sports facilities constructed in other towns and villages, subject to the support of the owners of local parks and recreational spaces.

7.1.41 The decision on how best to develop and fund these and other new facilities, including a possible site for a closed road circuit, will be considered as part of work to update the council's Leisure Strategy.

Regulation of on-street parking and verge and pavement parking

7.1.42 Since 2014, the Council has had in place an authority-wide Traffic Regulation Order that prohibits drivers from loading and waiting on verges and footways on all local roads. The order is enforceable once the necessary traffic signs have been installed. Should a driver transgress, they place themselves at risk of being served with a Penalty Charge Notice.

7.1.43 Whilst to date, the order has not been widely publicised, it is proposed to change this through a programme to introduce signage on all footways, footpaths and cycle tracks that feature on the adopted LCWIP network. This will allow for a targeted programme of enforcement, resources allowing, to keep the promoted walking and cycling network free of obstructed parking.

7.1.44 In 2022, the Council revised its On-Street Parking Management Strategy. The strategy sets out the measures the Council can take to alleviate the impacts of unregulated parking. Surveys show significant levels of frustration with vehicles park at junctions or across dropped kerbs, making it inconvenient and hazardous to cross the road.

Modal filters, including for School Streets

7.1.45 When introducing new legal orders to regulate traffic flows, the authority considers the needs of cyclists and pedestrians. This includes restrictions that are temporary and experimental in nature.

7.1.46 All bus-only sections of road afford an exemption for cyclists, or where this is not possible, an adjacent cycle track is provided. Similarly for one-way roads, where allowing cyclists to travel in a contraflow direction is now the default arrangement, subject to this being assessed through a road safety audit. In addition, all pedestrian zones within the authority allow cyclists to share the space.

7.1.47 The authority has in place several filters on residential roads to prevent these being used by general traffic when more suitable alternatives exist. In most instances, a physical arrangement affords cyclists the facility to bypass the restriction. Examples can be observed in the majority of Central Bedfordshire towns¹² and enjoy residents' support.

7.1.48 As the route networks set out in Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans are created, consideration will be given to introducing new modal filters where this supports the delivery of wider traffic management objectives.

7.1.49 The authority will also consider opportunities to reallocate space in the highway to afford greater convenience and comfort to pedestrians and cyclists. Prioritised schemes will focus on LCWIP route networks and on roads where the residual width is sufficient to accommodate the profile of traffic, both type and volume.

7.1.50 The authority will progressively expand the number of roads serving schools where a 'School Street' traffic restriction applies to other than residents during the morning and evening school run period. This will be in accord with the priorities set out in the Sustainable Modes of Travel to School strategy and its supporting data annex.

7.1.51 The authority will look favourably on requests from residents to operate a 'Play Street' scheme in their road, where a localised traffic restriction applies for specified hours to allow children to play out. As with School Streets, all new schemes will be piloted and deemed acceptable before any associated traffic regulation order is made permanent.

Wayfinding and route signage

7.1.52 Following investment over several years, all major towns with Central Bedfordshire have comprehensive 'white on blue' destination signage in place. However, a significant number of these directional or destinated signs are now missing, damaged, dirty or defaced.

7.1.53 The condition of all route-based signs will be systematically audited over the next couple of years with the support of volunteers. The first priority is the signage installed to assist people navigate the National Cycle Network, some of which is now very dated. In this regard, the audit of signage on all the separate NCN routes has been completed by Sustrans. A scheme is programmed to resolve all the identified issues and opportunities for improvement during 2025.

7.2 Education, incentives and other initiatives ('soft' measures)

7.2.1 The authority currently supports, funds and runs a range of programmes and initiatives designed to educate, enthuse and incentivise residents to walk and cycle more.

Active lifestyles

7.2.2 Active Lifestyles is a referral-based programme that targets people who are sedentary or inactive and have a health condition or other health issues that places them at risk. The aim is to enthuse and support them becoming more physically active.

Awards and designations - cycling and walking-friendly towns

7.2.3 In 2008, the authority was successful in securing 'Cycling Town' status for Leighton-Linslade. This was a UK government initiative with the objective of demonstrating that high levels of investment in infrastructure and promotion would deliver continental levels of cycling, on the basis that investment equivalent to £10 per resident per annum was sustained year on year.

7.2.4 The programme selected twelve diverse towns and cities through a bidding process. Leighton-Linslade was significantly the smallest. It afforded investment to develop and introduce new approaches to cycling promotion and to infrastructure deployment. The funding ceased after three years following a change in government but left a legacy of improvements and a knowledge base to inform future policy and ambition.

7.2.5 The experience of participating in the Cycling Town programme helped the authority to prepare bids and to secure further substantial investment through programmes including Round 2 of the Local Sustainable Transport Fund, and the later Access Fund. The former benefitted Dunstable and Houghton Regis and the latter funded work to encourage and facilitate cycling and walking to Biggleswade, Sandy and Flitwick stations and other local employment areas.

7.2.6 Following the establishment of Active Travel England, the authority has bid into and succeeded in winning funding in Rounds 2, 4 and 5 of the Active Travel Fund. Whilst round 5 may be the last such competitive bidding process offered by Active Travel England, there is likely to be further discretionary funding opportunities open to the authority to pursue.

7.2.7 A determinant of likely success in future rounds will be the development of a pipeline of high quality, costed schemes that can be year implemented with reasonable confidence over a one-, two- and three-year time horizon. Developing this pipeline is a key objective for the Active Travel Team in parallel with an expanded role in managing the delivery of scheme in liaison with the council's appointed highways contractor.

7.2.8 The authority is also keen to see its towns and village seek recognition through accreditation initiatives such as Walkers are Welcome, a community-led scheme designed to promote walking and enjoyment of local towns and villages. Sandy has led the way in this regard, being the first community in Bedfordshire to achieve this status.

Bikeability

7.2.9 Most children who attend school in Central Bedfordshire are afforded the opportunity to learn Bikeability to Level 1-2. The bike control skills element of the training (Level 1) takes place on a playground. For children who demonstrate the requisite skill, the Level 2 instruction takes place on local roads.

7.2.10 Combined level 1-2 training is targeted at children aged 10-11. At its conclusion, children are assessed as to their competence to correctly position themselves within the road, to correctly negotiate junctions and to mix with light traffic on local roads. Level 3 training teaches advanced skills including how to cycle on busier and more heavily trafficked roads and negotiate complex junctions with multi lane approaches.

7.2.11 The authority bids for funding from central government to pay the costs of training children. This training is organised through schools and delivered by specialist training providers.

7.2.12 The authority's aim is for 80% of eligible children to be trained to Bikeability Level 2, gaining the skills and confidence to cycle safety on local roads. At present the participation rate is 37%. The constraint is the willingness of some schools to promote the offer to pupils and their parents, and for schools to create the necessary time within their curriculum.

7.2.13 Where funding allows, L1 training is also provided to pupils attending lower schools alongside 'learn to ride' sessions for the relatively small number of children who have never cycled before. Children who receive training at level 1 are more likely to take up the opportunity when offered training at L1-2 when attending primary or middle school

7.2.14 The Council will also look to support training providers offering learn-to-cycle sessions, including for children with a disability, and who offer parents instruction on how to ride protectively when accompanying children.

Bike hire schemes

7.2.15 Reported level of bike ownership among Central Bedfordshire households is some way below levels of car ownership. To help address this the Council has commissioned the provision of a cycle hire scheme utilising funding secured through new developments.

7.2.16 In November 2022, the Council established two schemes using operator 'App-Bike'. The first operates within Houghton Regis and the second in Biggleswade. In total there are 32 bikes available for hire (20 Houghton Regis, 12 Biggleswade) from 13 locations. Each bike has three-speed internal gearing, dynamo lighting, internal braking, puncture resistant tyres, and is fitted with a front carrier for loads of up to 5kg. Users can pay as they go (£1.50 per hour) or opt to pay £5 monthly to get two hours free daily use and a reduce tariff thereafter. To date over 1,500 hire bike journeys have been made for a mix of purposes.

7.2.17 The strategy will see a continuation of development-related and funded cycle hire schemes as new housing and employment sites are approved and built out. There is also an ambition to progressively expand their coverage. This is subject to securing the requisite funding to facilitate their introduction and subsidise their operation.

7.2.18 Several commercial operators of cycle hire schemes in UK cities have declined the invitation to explore running schemes in Central Bedfordshire. The expressed view is that currently, there is insufficient potential to generate the number of hires needed to justify the requisite investment to provide a reasonable level of population coverage.

Bike refurbishment and placement scheme

7.2.19 The council supports and promotes a cycle refurbishment scheme operating out of the Cycle Hub based at the Farmstead, Linmere. The aim of the scheme is to refurbish and re-home bicycles that would otherwise have been scrapped. Currently, the scheme is in the start-up phase

7.2.20 Once fully operational the expectation is that around 200 bikes a year will be donated or collected through various channels, including broadcast appeals where an unwanted bike can be handed over on selected days at various venues including Priory House and local leisure centres.

7.2.21 All donated bikes will be 'triaged' and those considered to have a value, will be transported to Houghton Regis and stored, pending servicing and repair. Bikes that have no useful remaining life will be scrapped or cannibalised for spares. Once refurbished, bikes will be offered to deserving residents. The scheme will be monitored to ensure that the bikes are being used for their intended purpose and not being sold on.

7.2.22 The main beneficiaries of the scheme will be individuals who need assistance in accessing education or employment, or children who need a bike to be able to participate in Bikeability training.

Cycle-to-work scheme

7.2.23 The authority promotes the Government's Cycle to Work scheme to local businesses and public sector organisations.

7.2.24 The scheme offers staff access to a new bike at a cost that would be 40% to 50% lower than the alternative of buying the bike from a retail outlet.

7.2.25 The Council has successfully operated the scheme for its employees and will continue to encourage other employers within Bedfordshire, including schools, to do likewise.

Dr Bike clinics

7.2.26 In support of Bikeability, the council arranges for a qualified cycle mechanic to check children's bikes to ensure they are in a roadworthy condition, a prerequisite for those participating in Bikeability training sessions.

7.2.27 In addition to checking over a bike, the mechanic will undertake a range of simple tasks such as reinflating tyres, indexing gears, adjusting saddle heights, aligning brake blocks and in extremis, replacing changing gear and brake cables.

7.2.28 The authority will also consider requests from organisers to arrange a 'Dr Bike'-style service as a way of promoting active travel to local events other than in towns such as Leighton Buzzard where this service is provided by BuzzCycles, the local Cycling Forum.

Event days

7.2.29 In support of this strategy, the authority will support events that promote walking and cycling, and will facilitate the work of organisers seeking to secure temporary road closures to allow residents to utilise the road so that celebratory events can be staged, or so children can play out[13].

7.2.30 The authority will also use its communication channels to promote participation in nationally organised events including but not limited to National Car Free Day, World Children's Day, National Clean Air Day, The Big Lunch and The Great Get Together.

'Making Cycling E-asier' scheme

7.2.31 The 'Making Cycling E-asier' is an e-bike loan programme funded by the Department for Transport.

7.2.32 Alongside Luton, Central Bedfordshire is one of four areas selected to participate in the programme which offers residents within Luton, Dunstable and Houghton Regis the opportunity to try out using an e-bike for a month, for free

7.2.33 Once the programme concludes, likely early in 2027 the authority will review the results and outcomes and decide whether to apply for continuation funding, should this be offered.

E-Mobility schemes

7.2.34 The Council recognises that the growing range of affordable e-mobility options have the potential to provide residents with a cost-effective option to owning and running more than one vehicle.

7.2.35 As and when legislation allows, the Council will seek to facilitate and support the piloting of e-mobility technologies including e-bikes and e-scooters, with a focus on point-to-point trips where suitable supporting infrastructure is in place for example, commuting-related trips between new developments and nearby railway stations.

Promotional Events

7.2.36 The authority promotes and supports local events designed to encourage residents to become more active. Such events are typically part of a programme of measures associated with a residential travel plan and provide the opportunity to engage directly with residents to discuss travel choices.

7.2.37 Bedfordshire Ramblers for example, organise an annual walking festival featuring a diverse programme of guided and self-guided rambles over a 9-day period each September

Personalised journey planning

7.2.38 As part of its Travel Plan coordination activity for larger housing developments, the council can arrange one-to-one conversations for new residents to understand the journeys they make regularly and to explore the travel options available. The interaction provides the opportunity to exchange customised information and to understand the motivations behind individual's travel choices

7.2.39 In addition, all new residents are provided with a Travel Information Pack that provides location-specific information on available travel options including how conveniently local facilities such as schools, children's nurseries, convenience shops, etc. can be accessed on foot and by bike.

Road safety initiatives

7.2.40 The authority organises several road safety initiatives, both practical and educative. Among various benefits, these have the potential to reduce conflicts between pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.

7.2.41 The Bikeability programme is particularly important in this regard, teaching cyclists of the importance of communicating with drivers including using positioning and 'taking the lane' to deter inappropriate overtaking and 'close passing' manoeuvres. The training teaches the safest position to adopt when cycling on road including when negotiating the different form of junctions.

Social prescribing, walks for health and Street Tag

7.2.42 Social prescribing is being piloted in doctor's surgeries in Central Bedfordshire with the intention to roll the service out, as and where resources allow. The service is targeted at adults experiencing issues affecting their mental health and wellbeing and where poor health is being caused by social isolation, lifestyle, or other underlying issues.

7.2.43 Walks for health is a programme of walks funded by the Council and coordinated by Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity who train volunteer health walk leaders. The walks are aimed at people who are presently doing little or no exercise and are free and open to all, usually last about an hour.

Travel choices Information

7.2.45 Maps: The authority publishes a suite of 'travel choices' maps which are designed to help residents plan a journey. They contain details of useful paths, cut throughs and short cuts. The maps are available for:

• Dunstable and Houghton Regis
• Leighton Buzzard and Heath and Reach
• Ampthill and Flitwick
• Arlesey, Stotfold and Fairfield
• Biggleswade
• Sandy

7.2.46 Travel Choices Website: The authority maintains a website that is dedicated to promoting sustainable and active travel. The section on walking contains information on the benefits of walking, guidance on how to plan a route and details of self-guided walks in some of the authority's most attractive countryside

7.2.47 'Let's Go' website: This independently managed website offers information on over sixty mostly circular walks within Central Bedfordshire ranging from 2 to 14 miles in length.

7.2.48 Promoted routes and trails: Various towns have developed trails that they promote as a way of encouraging people to visit and explore the area on foot. Examples include:

• Children's Trail, Leighton Buzzard
• Heritage Trail, Dunstable
• Mosaic Heritage Trail, Sandy-Biggleswade-Potton
• Heritage Trail, Ampthill

Walkability assessments and 20-minute neighbourhoods

7.2.49 With the assistance of volunteers and using a standard assessment template, the Council will progressively rate the 'walkability' of each of its residential roads using the assessment template provided at Appendix D.

7.2.50 Between 2025 and 2030, the residential areas of each of the authority's main towns will be assessed for their walkability. The results will be mapped at a neighbourhood level to see visually the extent to which services used daily by residents are within a 20-minute walking distance, including convenience shops, primary schools and community facilities.

7.2.51 The data generated will provide a measure of progress towards the wider planning-related goal of creating permeable streets, described in Section 7.2.7 of the Council's Planning Design Guide. It will also inform the periodic review of Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans and the network proposals therein.

[4] The level of mode shift will vary in relation to the extent to which trips can be 'internalised' i.e. take place wholly within the boundaries of the development. This will relate to the number and nature of facilities that are to be provided by the development, such as shops, schools and leisure facilities. The extent of provision will in large part determine how many journeys are amenable to walking and cycling alongside connecting routes and the degree to which adjacent developments are connected or 'permeable'. It will also depend on the timing of provision of facilities over the period the development is being built out, which could for larger developments extend for a decade. Providing schools and shops in later phases reduces the degree to which a 'modal shift' is achievable as travel patterns quickly become engrained.

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[5] Should rail station demand estimates prove accurate, several east-west rail stations will see levels of patronage on a par with Flitwick and Leighton Buzzard.

[6] For the past three years, the authority has invited schools to apply for a grant to install cycle or scooter parking on their premises. Acceptance of the application is conditional on the school having in place an up-to-date travel plan.

[7] The authority has successfully negotiated S106 contributions for the purpose of improving cycle parking at rail stations.

[8] These stands are an inverted u-shaped and formed of tubular galvanised or power coated steel. They are either bolted onto, or have legs set into a concrete base.

[9] Many cyclists report having one or multiple bikes stolen as the reason for giving up on using a bike for all or part of their regular commute.

[10] A secure store allows access to only users in possession of a fob or similar device.

[11] Previous arrangements where cycles shared space within a communal bin store is no longer permitted as this proved to be insecure.

[12] Modal filters are a common part of emergency access arrangements, required for new developments that have a single point of access.