Agenda item

The Chairman introduced Chris Boardman, the interim National Commissioner for Active Travel England (ATE) who briefly outlined the role and aims of ATE.

Members made the following comments:

• Members raised that there had been local backlash to schemes introduced from emergency active travel funding an
• Further concerns were raised over consultations as there seemed to be a “silent majority” who were largely supportive of schemes but had not been accounted for
• It was queried how the LGA could support ATE

In response, Chris Boardman made the following comments:

• Of the Emergency Active Travel schemes introduced in the pandemic, those that were most well received were those that had been part of a long-term plan and then accelerated
• The LGA could help by supporting the training of staff at councils which would help them secure bids to fund schemes
• Whilst Electric Vehicles were recognised as one way to produce less emissions, they would not be sufficient to replace all vehicles and there needed to be a focus on active travel too.

The Chairman thanked Chris Boardman for his attendance

Decision:

·        Members noted the report and presentation.