Agenda item

The Chairman introduced Danny Williams, Chief Executive, and Brian Deegan, Director of Inspections, from Active Travel England (ATE) to give an update on their activities with councils and provide a look ahead at future work and funding.

ATE directly funds active travel schemes and as well as inspects and reviews them. From the summer, ATE would become a statutory consultee on large new housing developments. They also develop and deliver training for users and officers. Another focus was developing tools and datasets to be used by officers for a strong nationwide active travel sector.

Members made the following comments:

·        There was often support for active travel infrastructure with a “loud minority” causing delays to take place, it was queried how to address opposition

·        Funding was a challenge for councils, with issues such as road fixing already a priority

·        It was queried if a framework or guidance be introduced to planning authorities

·        It was suggested that ATE have a say on not only planning applications but local walking and infrastructure strategic plans

·        It was suggested that ATE engage with Sub-national Strategic Transport Bodies.

In response, Danny and Brian from ATE made the following comments:

·        The aim was that 50% of all journeys would be walking or cycling by 2030 with a focus primarily on walking infrastructure rather than cycling

·        It was emphasised that ATE did not wish to have a “top down” approach and wanted to work with councils to deliver what they feel is best for their communities

·        To address opposition to active travel infrastructure, it was suggested that councils should press ahead with schemes and then engage with those opposing to address specific concerns

·        There were roles at ATE set up specifically for regional engagement

Kamal Panchal, Senior Adviser made the following comments:

·        There were inflationary risks which could have an impact on local transport funding to watch

·        That we should remember the wider role of Department for Transport in setting national policy and the role it has in funding local transport and highways investement.

·        It was important that elected memebrs are also supported on active travel, given the local sensitivites with such schemes. It was suggested that the LGA support members by working with ATE to provide advice and guidance for councillors.

Decision:

Members noted the report and discussions