To receive a verbal update from Gordon Oliver, Principal Transport Planner (RBWM) on the above titled item.

The Chair outlined the item and informed the forum that the task and finish group had completed their work with the cycling strategy. It was highlighted that the cycling action plan would be added to the forward plan and would be considered at a future cabinet meeting, subject to scheduling arrangements. Gordon Oliver informed the forum that parts of the plan were already being delivered. Members of the forum queried why the plan had not been considered at Cabinet prior to this meeting as it had been finalised earlier this year. The Chair highlighted that he was lobbying the lead member for highways and transport to get this item  considered at Cabinet. Members of the forum wanted to place their disappointment in the delays of the plan being considered on record.

ACTION- That the scheduled cabinet date be circulated to all members when finalised.

Susy Shearer highlighted that the lead Member, Cllr Bicknell had been in attendance at the relevant overview and scrutiny panel when the item had been heard and that he had also been in attendance when the Infrastructure Delivery Plan had been considered.

ACTION- That Cllrs Wilson and Yong lobby the Lead Member for Highways and Transport.

Cllr Wilson explained that he was had been asked to seek approval from the Conservative Group to take the Cycling Action Plan to Cabinet. Cllr Yong informed the forum that political buy in was necessary in order to gain the appropriate funding for delivery of the plan and empathised with members and their frustration in the delay. Members were appreciative of the work carried out by Gordon Oliver and his team. Members felt that there was not enough enthusiasm for cycling and that some members had stopped attending the forum due to this. Councillor Yong stated that there would be an increased enthusiasm and attitude shift with the emerging issues with pollution and demand for alternative modes of transport. Members felt that more drastic action needed to be taken and that pressure should be placed on national Government to inform and deliver change to better equip local authorities with funding for cycling plans. Members were reminded that they were able to pose a question to full council about why the Cycling Action Plan had not been adopted and that they could contact democratic services for further information on this process.

The forum discussed that without formal adoption of the Cycling plan that RBWM would be unable to provide the vital infrastructure needed for cyclists and motorists. Members wished to highlight the need for cohesion between transport users and the road infrastructure needed and that there would be significant risk to the public without this, e.g. dangers to pedestrians without proper cycling routes. Members highlighted their concerns over pavement widths and pedestrian safety.

ACTION - That the Lead Member, Cllr Bicknell be invited to a future Cycle Forum meeting to hear the views of forum members directly.

To receive a verbal update from Gordon Oliver on the above titled item.