LCWIPs form part of the Government’s strategy to increase the number of trips made on foot, by cycling or by wheeling. As such, the East Herts LCWIP provides a network of routes around the district and identifies key areas for improvement along them.
The process of developing and adopting the East Herts LCIWIP has benefitted from the feedback and engagement of local residents, schools, walking and cycling groups, councillors, and other key interest groups. Through two consultations on the LCWIP and its network routes, the Council has learned where people most want to go within the district, as well as how they want to get there.
Now that the LCWIP has been adopted, it will act as a long-term blueprint for improving walking, wheeling and cycling routes across the district. The plan identifies priority routes and schemes that can be delivered over time as funding becomes available. Having an agreed LCWIP also strengthens the councils’ ability to secure investment from sources such as the Department for Transport’s Consolidated Active Travel Fund and from new developments.
Vicky Glover-Ward, Executive Member for Planning and Growth at East Herts District Council, said: “We are delighted to have the adopted East Herts LCWIP to help improve and encourage active travel in the district. There has been an incredible and unprecedented amount of engagement from East Herts community in the LCWIP during its development, and the feedback we’ve received has been invaluable in finalising the proposals.”
“Having the LCWIP in place will help us secure funding to better enable everyone to walk, wheel or cycle more often, and more safely, offering physical and mental health benefits whilst also fostering a greener, more sustainable transport future for the area.”
Cllr Paul Zukowskyj, Executive Member for Environment, Growth and Transport at Hertfordshire County Council, added, “This plan is a major step forward in making it easier, safer and more attractive for people in East Herts to walk, wheel and cycle as part of their everyday lives.”
“We know residents want better, more connected routes, and this gives us a clear, evidence-based blueprint to deliver them. It will also strengthen our ability to secure investment and bring forward improvements that support healthier lifestyles, cut congestion and help protect our environment.”
“By working closely with East Herts Council and local communities, we’re turning ambition into action and creating a transport network that works better for everyone.”
The adopted LCWIP can be viewed here: Local cycling and walking infrastructure plans (LCWIPs) | Hertfordshire County Council