Discussion of way forward notes and sharing draft LAF Work Plan, plus subgroup updates from Trisha Mentzel, Lisa Hughes/Steve Gillions, Susy Shearer/ Martin Richardson.

Trisha Mentzel gave an update regarding Carpenters Wood, part of Bisham Wood and part of the Woodland Trust. Upon further examination of the map and discussions with Alan Keene and Annie Keene, it was determined that there may not be a provision for the transfer of land granting public access, specifically for horses. Access was available, but the route towards Henley Road passed through private property, posing a challenge for continuous access. Trisha Mentzel said that although the landowners were willing to allow horse riders to continue along the route, achieving a circular route was desired. Further investigation into the historical status of the old 404 Road, now a farm track, was needed to ascertain if it had been officially stopped up. Additionally, it was noted that while landowners had not been keen on horses using the track, public access for activities like dog walking was allowed.

Tisha Mentzel then highlighted Cannon Lane and a track to the A4 that belonged to the National Trust, which permitted horse riding. It was suggested to write to the National Trust to confirm their approval for continued horse riding on that piece of land, considering its usefulness in providing a safe path away from the main road and facilitating access to Maidenhead.

Jacqui Wheeler asked about the level of horse riding on the route and whether it would justify approaching the National Trust to formalise horse riding access. Trisha Mentzel said that while the route is used, it may not see heavy usage, primarily serving local riders. There was a consensus that it could still be worthwhile to approach the National Trust to clarify access arrangements. However, Trisha Mentzel said she was uncertain about who to contact within the National Trust regarding this matter. Jacqui Wheeler said she could help provide the appropriate contact person.  Support was offered to draft a letter or email to the National Trust if deemed necessary.

Trisha Mentzel spoke on the suggestion to explore the possibility of shared projects between different LAF’s, which aligned with the Chairs interest in collaborative initiatives. The Chair noted the item would be included on the agenda for next week's LAF Chairs meeting, focusing on cross-border projects.

Steve Gillions wanted to make two points, firstly, although he had stepped down as Rambler’s chair, he expressed his desire to continue working on the "Walks for All" project and would contact Lisa Hughes directly regarding this matter. Secondly, he addressed the ongoing issue of cycling on footpaths, particularly on the Thames Path, which had caused tensions. Steve Gillions suggested addressing this issue in a non-confrontational manner and proposed involving the multi-user group to explore potential solutions. He suggested two possible approaches: engaging local cycle clubs to remind their members about where cycling is permitted and asking the council to consider installing larger signs at popular entry points to the Thames Path. Steve Gillions believed that addressing these issues would be beneficial in resolving the problem.

Jacqui Wheeler highlighted that there had been ongoing issues with signage removal at several locations. Despite efforts to replace signage, instances of vandalism had persisted, posing a challenge in maintaining clear communication about cycling restrictions. Jacqui Wheeler noted steps had been taken, such as placing additional "no cycling" roundels in problem areas, and larger signs had been installed at critical connection points like Frog Mill.

Jacqui Wheeler acknowledged that these issues were caused by a minority of cyclists who act irresponsibly, and engaging with cyclist groups and cycle hubs to spread awareness and reinforce responsible behaviour was deemed a valuable approach.

Susy Shearer agreed that efforts to engage with cyclist groups and cycle hubs to spread awareness and reinforce responsible behaviour would be beneficial. She expressed willingness to pass on the message through both hubs and to the manager of a major interchange frequented by cyclists on Sunday mornings. It was noted this proactive approach demonstrated a commitment to addressing the issue and promoting responsible cycling behaviour within the community.

The Chair thanked Steve Gillions for offering continued support to Lisa Hughes’ project despite no longer being a LAF member. The Chair proposed that Steve Gillions coordinate with Lisa Hughes on how multi-user groups could address the issue, possibly through another workshop. The aggressive behaviour of some cyclists was identified as a main problem, and collaborative efforts were deemed essential in finding solutions.

Susy Shearer provided a cycling update. Firstly, regarding the neighbourhood plan in Windsor proposing an off-road cycle path along Fifield Road on Crown Estate land, initial discussions with Crown Estate were not fruitful. Susy Shearer noted that Martin Richardson suggested exploring the idea further with maps and negotiations. Susy Shearer proposed to bring this issue back to the subgroup for further discussion, potentially involving Ascot and Sunninghill parish councils and Bracknell Forest to address it comprehensively.

Secondly, Susy Shearer spoke on the development that was about to commence on site AL21 adjacent to the Willows Path for 135 units. She noted it was crucial to ensure that cycling and walking infrastructure within this development aligned with existing and potential new cycling infrastructure outside. Susy Shearer said this approach was in line with Active Travel England's standing advice note from June 2023 on integrating cycling and walking infrastructure into new developments and broader infrastructure planning.

Regarding the developments, The Chair said it was important to note that the original local plan was extensively reviewed by the LAF, with recommendations made for linking up paths or installing new ones for walkers and cyclists. The Chair said these recommendations were supposed to be provided to developers during pre-development talks. However, it was unclear if this has been upheld since the change of administration.

Jacqui Wheeler said it would be valuable to schedule another subgroup meeting to follow up on issues highlighted in the September meeting. She suggested aiming for a meeting in January and would propose dates accordingly. Jacqui Wheeler spoke on Martin Richardson's inquiry about the trial removal of barriers along the Jubilee River and said she had reached out to a contact at Slough Council, responsible for most barriers along the river, and planned to discuss the trial before Christmas and provide Martin Richardson with an update afterward and circulate any updates and proposed meeting dates to the group.